Acme, the American automobile manufacturer, revved up its engines in 1903, setting its wheels in motion in Reading, Pennsylvania. Founded by James C. Reber, it emerged as the successor to the short-lived Reber Manufacturing venture, which had a brief stint from 1902 to 1903. With a name rooted in Ancient Greek, Acme signified the pinnacle of excellence, a reflection of their ambitious aspirations.
In June 1903, James C. Reber seized an opportunity, acquiring the former Acme Machine Company's bicycle factory in Reading for a sum of $47,000. He had grand plans to transition this space into an automobile manufacturing hub, and to solidify this transformation, he renamed his existing company to the Acme Motor Car Company. Joining him on this journey were notable directors like George D. Horst, Jacob Nolde, and John D. Horts, and they bolstered their venture with a starting capital of $200,000.
Initially, Acme's production pace was a modest four to six cars per week, with dreams of accelerating to 500 cars annually. By 1905, their assembly lines were humming, churning out between two to three automobiles every day. The spotlight shone brightly on Acme as they showcased their vehicles at prominent auto exhibitions in Chicago and New York from 1904 to 1907. Additionally, they played a founding role in the American Motor Car Manufacturers Association.
In a significant turn of events in November 1905, Frank A. Devlin, of Devlin and Co, Chicago, took the reins of Acme, acquiring it for a rumored price of $250,000. Devlin had ambitious plans to specialize in tourist cars, including touring cars, limousines, and landaulettes. However, tragedy struck in October 1908 when Devlin lost his life in an automobile accident.
James C. Reber, the original founder, took a different path in 1907, working as the General Manager for Keystone Wagon Works. Later, he ventured into poultry farming and, eventually, wholesale tobacco business until 1911.
Despite their promising start, Acme faced financial turbulence, culminating in a receivership in July 1906. Herbert M. Sternbergh emerged as the savior, purchasing the business for $65,881.12 in February 1907. Acme's registered capital underwent a significant reduction to $5,000 during this period.
Under Sternbergh's leadership, Acme introduced innovations such as the 6-cylinder touring car named the Sextuplet at the New York motor show in September 1907. They also ventured into motor racing, with an ambitious ocean-to-ocean endurance race from New York to Seattle proposed in May 1909. Sternbergh hoped this race would highlight the need for improved transcontinental roads.
In May 1911, J. H. Sternbergh purchased Acme's plant and site for $72,100, subsequently renaming the company to SGV and leasing the plant to a New York consortium. The legacy of Acme as an automobile manufacturer reached its conclusion.
Throughout its existence, Acme showcased various models, from the 12 hp Reber to the 16 hp Type V Touring Car in 1904, and even the innovative 6-cylinder Sextuplet in 1908. Notably, the Type XV Touring Car, equipped with a 45 to 50 hp 4-cylinder motor, gained attention for its top speed of 60 mph in 1906.
Acme also left its tire marks on the racing circuit, competing in events like the Savannah race in 1908 and the Land's End Economy Run. They continued to refine their automobiles, aiming for the highest standards of performance and safety.
In 1910, Acme transitioned into the SGV era, crafting cars that featured Lancia components. Known for their lightweight design and mechanical efficiency, SGV cars navigated city streets with ease.
In the end, Acme's journey as an automobile manufacturer was a blend of ambition, innovation, and resilience. While they may have closed their doors, their legacy lives on as a testament to the early days of American auto manufacturing.
