Oakland, while part of the Bay Area, has its own independent identity and charm with more than a half million residents calling it home. Its ties to the auto industry have been present for almost 100 years. Known at one time as the “Detroit of the West”, Oakland was home to many auto manufacturing plants.

In the late 1800’s horsecar and electric streetcar were dominant forms of public transportation. However, in 1916, General Motors opened a Chevrolet factory which operated until its closure in 1963. Another manufacturer, Durant Motors operated a plant from 1921 until 1930 manufacturing coupes, sedans, convertibles and roadsters.