For 100 years, Towne Ford has been more than a place to buy and service vehicles—it has been a cornerstone of the Redwood City community. Since opening its doors in 1926, Towne Ford has helped generations of drivers find dependable transportation while building lasting relationships based on honesty, respect, and exceptional customer service. As the dealership celebrates its centennial, it also celebrates the families, employees, and customers who have made this incredible milestone possible.
A Legacy That Began with the Model T
Towne Ford's story began in 1926 when Pete and Jerry Towne founded the dealership to sell and service what many still consider the "Car of the Century"—the legendary Ford Model T. At a time when automobiles were transforming American life, Towne Ford became one of Redwood City's trusted destinations for Ford sales and service.
As the community continued to grow, so did the dealership. What started as a local business quickly became an important part of everyday life for families throughout the Bay Area, earning a reputation for dependable vehicles and outstanding customer care.
The Kopf Family's Remarkable Ford Heritage
While Towne Ford has called Redwood City home for a century, the Kopf family's connection to Ford Motor Company stretches back even further.
In the late 1800s, Benjamin Kopf Sr. immigrated from Germany to Argentina alongside his siblings after the passing of their parents, seeking new opportunities and a brighter future. His determination eventually led him to Ford Motor Company in 1914, where his exceptional work ethic and leadership caught the attention of none other than Henry Ford himself.
Recognizing Benjamin Sr.'s talents, Henry Ford selected him to lead Ford Japan in Yokohama—a remarkable achievement that showcased the family's deep-rooted connection to the Ford brand long before they ever arrived in California.
Building Towne Ford Into a Family Legacy
While living in Japan, Benjamin Sr. sent his son, Benjamin Kopf II, to the United States to pursue his education at Stanford University. During his time at Stanford, Ben II met his future wife and eventually joined Towne Ford in the late 1940s.
He didn't begin in an executive office—he started on the showroom floor as a salesperson.
Through hard work, dedication, and a passion for serving customers, Ben II steadily advanced into management while purchasing ownership shares as the original founders retired. By the 1970s, he had become Towne Ford's sole owner, continuing the dealership's tradition of putting customers first.
His leadership helped establish Towne Ford as one of the area's most respected Ford dealerships, earning the trust of countless families throughout Redwood City and neighboring communities.
Continuing the Tradition Into the Next Century
In 1999, Benjamin II made the decision to retire and approached his son, Ben Kopf III, about taking over the family business.
Although Ben III did not come from a traditional automotive background, he brought extensive business experience and a strong understanding of sales and operations. Drawing upon his entrepreneurial experience, manufacturing industry relationships, and the guidance of his brothers—who also operate successful dealerships in Redwood City—Ben III embraced the opportunity to continue the family's remarkable legacy.
Today, Towne Ford proudly celebrates a unique milestone: a member of the Kopf family has led the dealership for 75 of its 100 years in business.
As the automotive industry continues evolving with advanced technology, electric vehicles, and changing customer expectations, Ben III remains committed to adapting while preserving the values that have defined Towne Ford for generations.
Customers Treated Like Family
One reason Towne Ford has remained successful for a full century is simple: people matter.
Whether someone is purchasing their very first Ford, upgrading to a new SUV or truck, scheduling routine maintenance, or visiting for expert repairs, every customer is treated with kindness, honesty, and respect.
Many customers visiting Towne Ford today aren't first-time visitors—they're third- and even fourth-generation customers whose parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents purchased vehicles or relied on Towne Ford's service department.
That kind of loyalty isn't built overnight. It's earned over decades through consistency, trust, and genuine care for every customer who walks through the door.
Celebrating 100 Years with the Redwood City Community
A milestone this special deserves a celebration, and Towne Ford is inviting the entire community to join the festivities.
On Friday, June 26, beginning at 11:00 AM, Towne Ford will host its Early Fords Event to commemorate 100 years in business.
Guests can enjoy:
- FREE admission
- FREE lunch
- A family-friendly atmosphere
- A spectacular display of classic Ford vehicles from the 1920s through the 1940s
- The opportunity for owners of vintage Ford models to showcase their own vehicles—no registration or entry fee required
The event will take place at:
Towne Ford
1-A Bair Island Road
Redwood City, CA 94063
It's an opportunity to celebrate automotive history while honoring the community that has supported Towne Ford for an entire century.
Looking Ahead to the Next 100 Years
While Towne Ford proudly honors its past, the dealership is equally excited about the future.
As electric vehicles become increasingly popular and automotive technology continues advancing, Towne Ford is committed to evolving alongside the industry while maintaining the personalized customer experience that has defined the dealership since 1926.
Whether you're interested in the latest Ford EVs, dependable trucks like the Ford F-150, versatile SUVs, or trusted Ford service, Towne Ford remains dedicated to serving Redwood City with the same integrity that has guided the business for generations.
Thank You, Redwood City
One hundred years in business is an extraordinary achievement, but Towne Ford knows this milestone would never have been possible without the incredible support of the Redwood City community.
From the Towne family's vision in 1926 to the Kopf family's decades of leadership, every chapter has been built on strong relationships and shared values.
As Towne Ford celebrates its centennial, it extends heartfelt gratitude to every customer, employee, and community member who has been part of its story.
Here's to 100 remarkable years—and to many more decades of serving Redwood City with excellence, innovation, and family values.
