This site is a National Historic Landmark, dedicated on June 14, 1928. The Packard Motor Car Company built it as its private testing facility. Every Packard automobile was tested here to ensure it met the company’s goal of building “the finest automobile in America.” We still believe that legacy speaks for itself.

The entire complex was designed by renowned industrial architect Albert Kahn. Construction began in 1927 and cost $1 million — an enormous investment at the time. Originally, the proving grounds covered 564 acres, stretching from 22 Mile to 23 Mile Roads, between Van Dyke and Mound. Today, 14 acres inside the original fence are preserved.

The building we dined in is the Repair Garage, completed in 1929. After opening in 1928, Packard quickly realized it needed more space to disassemble and thoroughly inspect vehicles. This 6,500-square-foot open facility allowed engineers to evaluate cars after testing. An overhead I-beam crane ran the length of the building, enabling engines to be lifted and moved anywhere inside. There was also a dynamometer room, where engines were tested and analyzed.

Across the way is the Lodge, where site manager and curator Charles Vincent lived with his family. During World War II, the proving grounds were also used to test tanks and other military vehicles. The Tank Test Building, designed by William Kapp, reflects that wartime adaptation.

The property sat abandoned for more than 40 years before the Foundation acquired it in 1999. Many residents didn’t even know the buildings were here because they were hidden from view. Remarkably, there was very little vandalism — it was almost like opening a time capsule.

Packard was often called the “Rolls-Royce of America.” It was a true luxury brand, known for innovation and engineering excellence. The company held over 2,000 patents, many of which they shared with competitors. Packard introduced numerous firsts to the American automobile industry, including the steering wheel (replacing the tiller), four-wheel brakes, safety glass, the 12-cylinder engine, the modern H-pattern gearshift, chassis lubrication systems, and early automotive air conditioning.

So why did Packard go out of business?

Like many independent automakers, Packard struggled after World War II. Consumers increasingly wanted affordable, high-volume cars. Custom coachbuilders had disappeared during the war, and the market for large luxury vehicles shrank. In 1954, Packard merged with Studebaker, often described as two struggling companies trying to survive together. Studebaker had lower-priced models but limited capital; Packard had prestige but no true economy car to compete with Ford, Chevrolet, or Buick.

Additional challenges compounded the problem. A restructured distribution system strained small dealerships. Packard’s new V8 engine, introduced in 1955, arrived months late and initially had mechanical issues. Dealers were forced to sell leftover 1954 models alongside the new 1955 cars, creating inventory and marketing confusion.

By 1958, production ended quietly. A single-line notice in the South Bend paper announced that Packard would cease production. After decades of excellence, the company faded away — not with a bang, but with a whisper.

Today, the facility serves as an event venue (hosting hundreds of weddings) and hosts historical talks to ensure the Packard legacy lives on. We are happy you had the opportunity to experience this remarkable piece of automotive history firsthand.