Family-Owned and Operated for Over 100 Years
1908
Smart Motors first opened its doors in 1908 when O.D. sold his first car, an Apperson Jackrabbit out of his father's livery & grain business in Waukesha, WI.
1929
In 1929, the Great Depression hit the nation hard, and every car dealership in Madison declared bankruptcy except one...Smart Motors.
1933
By 1933 O.D and his team had sold over 9,000 cars and trucks, averaging a car a day in a time where it was unusual to have even two vehicles in a dealer's inventory.
1953
1953 was a special year as it ushered in a new era for the business as O.D.'s son, F.J. Smart joined the family business and took over the day to day operations. Several years later, in 1957, O.D. retired after an amazing 49 years in the car business.
1971
By 1975, the third generation of Smart men joined the family business. Brothers J.R. and Brian Smart continued to grow Smart Motors for the next three decades.
2008
2008 marked our 100th Anniversary, and the kick-off of our Centennial Celebration! We started with an employee appreciation party for our staff and family, followed by an evening entertaining dignitaries from Toyota, local business owners and contractors who made the new facility come to life, and culminating with a week-long public grand opening celebration. We even hosted five community events throughout the area as a "thank you" for supporting our business for the past 100 years.