This picture was used for the cover of the 1953 GM Annual
Report. It was a painting that was reduced to fit the cover and it wrapped around from
front to back. The fact that GM saw fit to commission a painting and use it on the cover
of their Annual Report, points out the importance and pride that they took in putting on
the show.
The Parade of Progress was the brainchild
of Charles F. Kettering who was inspired by GM's popular Science and Technology Exhibit at
the 1933-34 Chicago World’s Fair. Kettering convinced GM board
chairman Alfred P. Sloan, Jr. and public relations vice president Paul Garrett to take
these educational exhibits on the road. The depression-weary public eagerly attended
movies, shows, fairs, or any sort of entertainment that took their minds of the country's
plight.
John
Ryan, Parade of Progress Director, was instrumental in keeping
the show on the road for the American Public to view.
"Boss"
Kettering, GM Vice President, was instrumental in getting
Alfred P. Sloan, Jr.'s support to put the Science and Technology Exhibit
from the 1933-34 Chicago World's Fair on the road.
On February 11, 1936, the
Parade of Progress made its debut in Lakeland, Florida. With the exception
of the war years, the show ran until 1956.
Contacts:
Don M. Mayton, Project
Director
4521 Majestic Vue, Zeeland, MI 49464
616 875-3058
Dean G. Tryon, Newsletter
Editor
2516 Laurelford Ln., Wake Forest, NC 27587
919 562-4660
The Parade of Progress was the brainchild
of Charles F. Kettering who was inspired by GM's popular Science and Technology Exhibit at
the 
John
Ryan, Parade of Progress Director, was instrumental in keeping
the show on the road for the American Public to view.