Seldom seen today, the canopy express truck was once commonplace in America. When produce came directly from the farm to market, the small truck became an essential link in its journey. Basically a pickup with a roof, it offered protection from weather and shade from the sun, and it also allowed for easy access to goods placed within. It was thus ideal for street vendors and useful for other trades where accessibility was important. The Dodge brothers were pioneers of this style.

Horace and John Dodge had supplied engines to Henry Ford. In 1914, they produced their first automobile: a tough, no-nonsense four-cylinder car with few amenities. Dodge cars proved their mettle in World War I and in General Pershing’s Mexican excursion in 1916, putting the U.S. Army firmly into motorized warfare. These experiences led naturally to trucks, starting in 1918. A closed panel van was called the Business Car, but more popular was the Commercial Car, a screen-sided model with a full roof and the first incarnation of the canopy express style. The Commercial Car found instant favor with farmers, merchants, and postal carriers. It continued in production until 1941, having been joined by an open-side canopy model in 1927. The last in the style of this truck was built in 1947.

This 1941 Dodge Canopy Express Truck is one of a few produced prior to the entry of the United States into World War II. Even before Pearl Harbor, the nation was gearing up for hostilities, and the industrial base was moving away from automobiles. It has been freshened within the last two years; the green and black paint have been touched up where necessary, and new wood has been fitted to the truck bed, along with stainless steel strips. The engine compartment has been completely detailed, with the engine painted in correct silver and the ancillaries in gloss black. It is tastefully accessorized with fog lights, a windshield post spotlight on the driver’s side, and bright trim rings on the wheels. Unusually, it has a front passenger seat, which was usually omitted on basic models to allow the driver direct access to the cargo area. The roof is fabric covered, with supporting wood slats elegantly varnished underneath.

One of a handful known to exist, this splendid Dodge Canopy Express will make an ideal marketing or promotional vehicle for any enterprise. It will also complement any collection, particularly of commercial vehicles, and will be perfect for parades and charitable ventures.