Grade 3 Students Explore Michigan History via Model Ts

Last week, grade 3 classes at Way Elementary celebrated Michigan’s history with a hands-on exploration of the Ford Model T, presented by Steve Shotwell and his Model T Outreach Program. Shotwell is a retired elementary school teacher and historic car enthusiast, now volunteering his time to educate students about an important part of Michigan’s economic history.

The experience began with a grade-level assembly focused on Henry Ford’s impact on Michigan’s automotive industry. Dressed in a top hat and old fashioned vest and tie, Shotwell explained to students that Henry Ford did not create the first automobile, nor did he invent the first assembly line. Rather, Henry Ford revolutionized the industry by using a moving assembly line to build his automobiles, creating them much more efficiently than competitors. Students learned that Henry Ford wanted to build automobiles that were simple, durable, affordable, and easy to fix, so that many families, not just the wealthy, could afford one. Gasps filled the room when students learned the price of a Ford Model T in 1924 was a mere $260!

After the presentation, classes headed outside to the bus loop to see and explore two real-life Ford Model T cars, on loan from Shotwell himself and a colleague. Students took turns climbing in, pretending to drive, waving from the passenger seat, or even honking the horn. Shotwell showed them the engine compartment, as well as the wheels and axles beneath, explaining that all parts were originally put together on moving assembly lines here in the Detroit area.

This hands-on experience was a wonderful complement to the grade 3 social studies curriculum which includes the study of Michigan’s history and economy. A huge thanks to Mr. Shotwell for spending his afternoon with our students, and to Way parent Krista Bamberger who brought the idea to her child’s teacher. What a fantastic way to bring a history lesson to life!