1938 Graham Sharknose

Graham-Paige was an American automobile manufacturer founded by brothers Joseph B. Graham (1882-1970), Robert C. Graham (1885-1967), and Ray A. Graham (1887-1932) in 1927. Automobile production ceased in 1940, and its automotive assets were acquired by Kaiser-Frazer in 1947. As a corporate entity, the Graham-Paige name continued until 1962.

Graham Motor Car Company advertising described the models as “Daring new designs” and encompassing the “Spirit of Motion.” The new models offered dynamic sweep design fenders and new headlights that were built flush into the fenders. Some consumers admired the aerodynamic, stylish new look, however, others did not.

The 1938 Graham models received first-place wins during the Gilmore-Yosemite Economy Run. Mr. B. Gilmore, president of Gilmore Oil Company, held the economy race along with H. Clay Moore of Ralph Hamlin. The Graham Supercharged models were conceded to be one of the world’s most effective gas-savers on the consumer market.

Not all of the motoring public, however, accepted the new age design of the Graham automobiles. Some consumers felt that the styling was just a little too radical for the buying public when it came time to purchasing a new automobile.