In 1914, Emmett and Leo McEleney opened an automobile dealership at 21 Main Avenue on the riverfront in Clinton, Iowa. That began a tradition of leadership in the community, pride in quality products and of service customers can depend upon.
The first franchise held by the McEleney brothers was the Jeffrey automobile. After World War I, the dealership added franchises including Oakland, Rickenbacker and Rio.
1926 First expansion took place with the 5,000 square foot addition to the west of the original structure. The Oldsmobile franchise was added, marking the beginning of the firm’s association with General Motors.
1942 During World War II, a six-lane bowling alley was installed in the former showroom area for the duration of the War, as automobile production was halted.
1958 Chevrolet and Cadillac franchises were acquired in a downtown Clinton location.
1964 The fiftieth anniversary of the Dealership was commemorated - - a rare event in the automotive industry. McEleney Motors and McEleney Chevrolet are merged into one operation, franchised with Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Cadillac.
1973 Recognizing the growth and significance of the import vehicle market, the Toyota franchise was added.
1976 McEleney Motors celebrated fifty years association with General Motors.
1988 Franchises for Buick, Pontiac and GMC Truck were added making McEleney Motors one of the United States largest full-line General Motors dealers.
2001/2002 Construction of a new facility was begun in a location at the junction of Highways 30 and 67, the main southwest entrance to the city of Clinton. The new “state of the art” facility, complete with the most modern Collision Center techniques, separate Toyota building, and Pre-Owned sales building is more convenient to area traffic local and to the south. This area is undergoing rapid growth of many other retail businesses and the relocation is in keeping with our commitment to our customers and the community to have the finest automotive accommodations available in eastern Iowa and western Illinois. The move was completed on June1st, 2002.
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