Torkelson Motors

Specialties

Great Cars, Great Service and a Great Buying experience!

History

Established in 1926.

Torkelson Motors was organized in 1926 in Elgin, Iowa by Clarence Torkelson and his brothers Tom, Carl and Otto, after securing a franchise to sell Chrysler automobiles. The business was called Torkelson Bros. and was one of the first Chrysler dealers in Iowa. Chrysler Corp. began operation in 1924 and had established a reputation for innovative engineering and excellent quality. It was the perfect match for the principles mandated by the Torkelson Brothers. The business grew and prospered for 23 years serving Elgin and the surrounding area with the leadership of the original brothers. In 1949 Clarence Torkelson’s son Ivan & wife Eleanor, assumed ownership of the company and changed the name to Torkelson Motors. In 1978, their son Bruce and his wife Susan became partners in the business and opened the second dealership in Waukon. In 1985, Ivan’s son Dirk and his wife Cindy became partners in the business. Bruce manages the Waukon Facility today, while Dirk manages the Elgin location.