Ricker Motors (site) (Whittier, California)

USA / California / Whittier / Whittier, California / Whittier Boulevard, 11217
 historical layer / disappeared object  Add category
Opened in 1942 by William "Mike" Ricker, Ricker Motors (originally established as a livery stable then, as an automobile dealership in 1911 by Mike's father, Herb), was a Packard and Crosley dealership, a Nash dealership from 1952, (1954 at this location), before it was picked up by Studebaker when the Lark debuted in 1959.
In 1969 it became an American Motors dealership.
The dealership also sold Avanti II's from 1965 to 1982.
Ricker Motors was in business for 62 years.
Mike Ricker passed away on Dec. 17th, 2004 at the age of 93.
The Ricker Motors legacy continues as a collision repair shop, thanks to the efforts of Robin Ricker, Mike Ricker's grandaughter.

Rather than renovate and reuse this iconic location, the city plans on turning this "blighted" parcel into a 150-room hotel.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Studebaker-Packard_Corporation
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   33°58'7"N   118°2'36"W

Comments

  • You state in the article that Ricker Motors became an American Motors dealership in 1969. My father purchased a new 1962 Rambler Classic Station Wagon in 1962 from Ricker. I still have the paperwork. BTW it was the worst car my father purchased, ever. In fact he and Mike Ricker got into it on the dealership floor when Mr Ricker suggested that dad buy a new 63 if the 62 was so much trouble. Dad told him what he could do with the car. That same weekend dad bought a new 63 Ford. Anyway looks like they where selling American Motor before 69.
  • Yes, my dad bought a new 1967 Rambler Rebel 550 from Ricker. It was a fabulous car and went to 150k before he sold it.
  • Anne & Mike were great people willing to help out anyone in need, so many great stories from the past in the automobile world, i got to know them in the early 90's when they were retired from the multiple dealerships and concentrated on older classic cars visiting their place was like a trip back in time just great it was if you were into vintage iron & history of cars. I will miss them but will always have the found memories of our visits. nephew Doug Kielian
This article was last modified 13 years ago