When was the first tow truck invented, and why?

For some, this might be an easy question. For others, it’s a mystery. Don’t worry if you don’t know the answer — even after over 30 years in the industry, I didn’t learn it until 2016 when the 100-year anniversary of the tow truck came around. The first tow truck was invented in 1916 by Ernest Holmes in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

But why did Ernest Holmes invent the tow truck?

Holmes, a garage worker, was inspired to create the tow truck after a challenging recovery incident. He needed six men, blocks, and ropes to pull a car out of a creek. Determined to find a better way, Holmes improved on his design
and began manufacturing tow trucks commercially.

Did you know there’s a museum dedicated to the towing industry?

Yes, it’s true! Almost 40 years ago, a group of passionate towing professionals known as the Friends of Towing decided to establish a museum to honor the industry.

Today, the museum preserves the history of towing, displays artifacts and memorabilia, and provides information to the public. Today, it is known as the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum and it is located in the birthplace of towing, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Did you know the museum has a Hall of Fame?

Since 1986, the museum has been recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the towing and recovery industry. A new class of inductees is honored in a special ceremony in the fall of each year. The Hall of Fame pays tribute to these trailblazers with portraits displayed on the museum’s walls.

Did you know the museum has a memorial for those in the industry killed in the line of service?

In 2006, the museum unveiled the Wall of the Fallen to honor those who lost their lives while serving the motoring public across our industry. At the first dedication ceremony in 2007, the names of 94 towing operators were added to the wall. Each year, during a special fall ceremony, more names are added to remember the brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Want to help preserve the legacy of the towing industry?

You can support the museum and its mission by becoming a member of the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum for as little as $150 a year. The museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit, and donations support its operations. Such donations are generally tax deductible.

Mark your calendars for the annual ceremony!

Each year, the museum hosts a special event to honor fallen drivers and induct new members into the Hall of Fame. If you’ve been in this remarkable industry for more than a few months, you owe it to yourself to visit the museum, especially during this annual event. It’s a chance to meet some of the great people who have shaped our industry and to immerse yourself in its rich heritage.

Make sure to put the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum on your bucket list!

By Mike Porter,
Contributor

Image via Sean Mathis

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