Stearns-Knight

Information about Stearns-Knight

Stearns-Knight, an emblem of automotive luxury and innovation, traces its prestigious lineage back to 1898 in Cleveland, Ohio. Founded by Frank Ballou Stearns, an ingenious young inventor, the brand quickly distinguished itself with a focus on high-quality, technologically advanced automobiles. Stearns was among the first to embrace the internal combustion engine, leading his company to produce the sophisticated Stearns Four—a marvel of its time featuring a then-unprecedented twin-cam engine.

Transitioning through the automotive golden age, Stearns-Knight pioneered the use of sleeve-valve engines, which became their signature. This technology set them apart, enhancing the vehicles’ smoothness and quiet operation, hallmarks of luxury in the early 20th century. However, despite their engineering prowess, Stearns-Knight could not withstand the economic challenges of the Great Depression. The company ceased production in 1929, leaving behind a legacy of automotive excellence that remains revered in classic car circles.

Today, while Stearns-Knight no longer produces vehicles, their spirit of innovation and luxury continues to inspire. Their rare and beautifully crafted automobiles are highly sought after at auctions and vintage shows, showcasing the enduring legacy of a brand that once set the standard for automotive luxury.