New Way
The New Way Motor Company was formed in January of 1905 as a successor of the Clarkmobile Company. The Lansing Journal 1/26/1905 explains that, "The Clarkmobile Co. has been reorganized for the continuation of the business under the name New Way Motor Co." The initial capitalization was $100,000.
A. C. Stebbins was president of the company, J. W. Knapp - vice president, William H. Newbrough - treasurer, E. W. Goodnow - secretary and, finally, Charles H. Way - mechanical engineer. C. D. Woodbury, Harris E. Thomas and H. D. Luce also facilitated the incorporation of the company.
It is interesting to note that a Will Newbrough is mentioned in an early newspaper account of the 'Unbreakable Clarkmobile'. Just what the relationship between Newbrourgh and Clark was is still unknown.
The names of several prominent Lansing families are mentioned as having an interest in the New Way Motor Company. The real driving force behind the company was William H. Newbrough and Charles Way. The pictured engraving (right) is of the New Way plant in 1910; it was located at 706 Sheridan.
The New Way Motor Company produced an air cooled engine that was the brainchild of Charles Way. The company used the old Clarkmobile chassis and fitted it with the new engine. The Clarkmobile Company had transferred its patents and other properties to New Way Motor in 1905. The company produced automobiles until 1907. The New Way Motor Company survived until 1930 when it was placed in receivership and its assets were put up for sale. A company with the name of New Way Engine and Machine Company survived until 1940. After that there is no record of the company.
Pictured to the left is an advertisement for the New Way Clarkmobiles. Clark sold his interest in the Clarkmobile to 1905 to the New Way Motor Company. It is interesting to note that the the models being sold are from the previous year.
