Swarthout Auto Service started in 1923 with Floyd Swarthout, Sr. as a Ford Agency, body shop and car repair. In 1942 the business relocated to 824 Western Avenue and re-opened as a car repair and body shop.
Floyd Jr. joined the business full
time in 1944, after being returning from the Army. In 1945
when World War II was over, new Ford car sales was added and the
showroom was opened.
Jim joined the business in 1952 after his service in the Army. In
1978 when Floyd Sr. retired, Floyd Jr. and Jim took over the
business. In 1985, Floyd Jr. retired and Jim was sole owner of
the business. Jim hired his son-in-law Brad Luetje as his
service manager in 1985.
In December 1988 Jim retired from the business and Brad relocated the body shop in is current location in Lake Bluff.