James Alexander Holden – The founder of Holden which later on rises as a brand of Australia for Australians

During the era, when every single person in Australia was trying the luck in goldfields, some entrepreneurs grab this chance to do something new. James Alexander Holden is one of the businessmen who uses this opportunity and sets up Holden automobile. The South Australian company which shaped Australia in so many ways for a long time. Initially, it established as a saddle maker in the middle of the 19th century. As well, it rises as a brand of Australia for Australians.

However, by the end of the decade, the production of Holden boomed like nothing. Over 50 lakhs Holden’s were produced at this time, marking the name in the automobile industry.

Glimpse to founders life- James Alexander Holden

He was born on 1 April 1835 in Walsall. His father, Edward Holden was a well-reputed merchant in the business of hardware. James’ mother Elizabeth died when he was young. Thereafter, the relationship of father-son degraded resulting in enmity between them. In 1851, James’s father died and named the property to the stepmother and older brother of James.

Beginning of New life

After James’ father passed away, he decided to go to his mother’s home. Therefore, he flew to America, where he stayed at his mother’s sister. He spent some time there, learned new things, and again decided to go back to Australia. James Holden started living in South Australia, it was a newly formed colony at that time. During this period, more than half the population in South Australia was trying luck in goldfields.

Holden also tried luck in this field but he changed his focus on importing ironmongery with the help of his cousin Edwin Thomas Smith.

 Establishing J. A. Holden & Co

He set the business J. A. Holden & Co back in 1856. It was related to selling saddles, which are especially either locally made or imported. James also sells the saddles of his brother company. As well, he was the merchandise of whips and harness.

Evolutions in the business

In 1863, the company shifted to Gawler place. During this time, the policy of business expansion was somewhat changed. J. A. Holden & Co made a contract with the Overland Telegraph Line project. The contract was to supply carts other required components for 165 horses and 210 bullocks.

Thereafter, the firm became Holden and Briks as A. J. Briks became the partner in business.  This time, the firm owned the premised on Rundle street.

Partnership with Frost and Financial problems in James life

Later on, James became the partner with Frost who was in financial problems. In 1885, James sold J. A. Holden & Co to his son and the business partner Frost. The firm again renamed as Holden & Frost. In 1886 James declared insolvent. After this incident, he had to sell his property.

Personal life

During all this struggle, James decided to settle down with his landlady’s daughter in 1857. They buy a cottage in Beulah Park. Later on, they shifted at Magill. Because of financial problems and lots of up-downs in later life, James started drinking which complicated the situation of tuberculosis. The founder of J. A. Holden & Co. Died due to tuberculosis.

Holden in the Automotive industry

After the death of a partner, James’ son Henry purchased Frost’s equity and became the sole proprietor of the company. As well, after the death of father James holden, Henry decided to try luck in vehicle production. Initially, the company begins production unit for making car bodies for Chevrolet. In fact, Holden set the record and became the first Australian company to assemble bodies for Ford. The year 1924 was a golden year for the firm, it became the leading car bodies supplier in Australia.

Later success of the company

In 1948, Holden was a leading car supplier in Australia. During this time, it manufactured the first car in Australia, which is completely Australian. From the body to the engine, everything was produced in the country. It named FX 48-215. This model became the most successful in the history of Holden, giving the record-breaking sell.

The history of Holden is inspiring that bears lots of up-downs. However, the company managed to become a commercial leader. Later on, Holden’s modern designs like FJ Holden, FE, and 1958 FC become popular among Australians. Despite several ups and downs in business, Holden’s car will always be the first model, Made in Australia for Australia!