Published in 1997, this detailed account chronicles the 60-year history of Divco, one of the most iconic delivery truck manufacturers. The authors attribute Divco’s survival to its reputation for reliability and durability, while the key to its exit was the general decline of house-to-house delivery. Black-and-white vehicle and factory-scene photographs
(as well as illustrations from sales literature and advertisements) totaling 101 images enhance the nine-chapter chronological account. The four-page “Divco Today” feature offers color photographs of 12 restored Divcos. Set against the battle with the horse and other truck manufacturers, the company’s story is traced from its earliest offerings in 1926 through its demise in 1986. The book rightly focuses on “America’s Favorite Milk Truck,” the snub-nose Model U. The U debuted in 1938 and is arguably the most recognizable Divco truck. To supplement the narrative, the book includes numerous tables and charts providing production data, costs, and truck features. In addition, eight appendices include production and financial data, prices, specifications, Divco patents, a summary of the business career of Glenn Way (who purchased Divco in 1967), and “A Statistical Analysis of the Demand for Divco Trucks.”

Book Review by Robert Gabrick