This Week in Automotive History: Sept. 3-Sept. 9

Sept. 3, 1875

Ferdinand Porsche Born: Born in what is now the Czech Republic, Austrian-German automotive engineer Porsche would be the man behind the Mercedes-Benz S, SS and SSK models, the Volkswagen and the first of the cars to carry his name, as well as the mighty Auto Union Racing. He also contributed to the German war effort during WWII.

Sept. 4, 1917

Henry Ford II born: The Deuce, as he was known, was granted an early discharge from the Navy to return home to join the family business when his father, Edsel, died in 1943. He remained with the company until retirement in.

Sept. 5, 1885

First Gas Pump Built: Sylvanus Bowser of Fort Wayne, Ind., manufactures the first gas pump, which is delivered to Jake Gumper, also of Fort Wayne.

Sept. 6, 2007

Volkswagen of America Moves: To be closer to its strong east-coast market, VW of America moves from Auburn Hills, Mich., to Herndon, Va.

Sept. 7, 1979

Chrysler Announces Record Losses: Chrysler announces its pre-tax losses for the year and soon would be the recipient of a massive government bailout.

Sept. 8, 1904

Prototype Harley-Davidson Revealed: The prototype of first loop-frame Harley-Davidson runs in a race at State Fair Park in Milwaukee, the first recorded public showing of any of the company’s motorcycles.

Sept. 9, 1982

Henry Ford II Retires: Almost 40 after he left the Navy to join the company that shares his name, Henry Ford II retires, though he would still play a part in the business until his death in 1987.