1938 REO Speedwagon

1938 REO Speedwagon – REO.

At this time, REO was among the oldest automobile manufacturers in America, with roots tracing back to 1915. The name “REO” stands for Ransom Eli Olds, who also founded Oldsmobile. From its inception through the early 1930s, REO produced both cars and trucks; however, by 1936, the company shifted its focus exclusively to truck manufacturing.

The iconic REO Speedwagon line was adapted into a wide range of work vehicles, including tow trucks, fire engines, hearses, and delivery trucks. Fun fact: the famous rock band REO Speedwagon took their name directly from the company. According to the story, when the band first formed, they were searching for a name—and one of the members spotted “REO Speedwagon” written on a blackboard in a college classroom. The name stuck, and the rest is history.

1938 REO Speedwagon