Hello to all Budd people from an ex-Detroit Plant person; Tim Hogan. I spent 30 years in the Plant Engineering Department at the Detroit Plant and worked with some very wonderful people in the process. The fundamental Budd Company; (before the "influence" at the end that changed and eventually dismantled the company), was a very family like company. You were a Budd person and knew it. In fact, my father and grandfather worked in the Detroit Plant. I'm told that Mr. Budd encouraged family involvement.
I retired a few years ago when the opportunity was presented due to the deteriorating working conditions and my health. As it turned out, that was the best thing for me to do.
Right after retirement, the first of my three married daughters announced the first grandchild and three more came along since then so we have four with yet another one due in January. I have used a good deal of my available time to be with my grandchildren as much as possible. Since the married daughters all live within 10 miles or less I can see them often.
I miss the wonderful people I worked with and the daily challenge. Most of the time until near the end the challenge and response was appreciated.
It's too bad that "The Budd Company" as it existed at it's peak is not known in proportion to its' achievements and contribution to the automobile industry and rail industry as well.
I understand that The Detroit Plant will be torn down and replaced with a truck/rail cargo terminal facility. The "Liberty Building" will be torn down. That's really too bad. A piece of history gone.
I really hope that we ex Budd people keep in touch and keep the memory alive. This Blog site is one way to do that.
Perhaps we could form a group who would be willing to have regional reunions? Something like a retiree's association? Any ideas?
Thanks, Paul for setting this Blog Site up!!!
Tim Hogan (thogangoatx@comcast.net)
