BFNAT to Commemorate U.S. Interstate System’s 50th Anniversary

A convoy, which will include two Firestone tractor trailers, will begin its journey on June 15 in San Francisco and end on June 29 in Washington.

According to BFNAT, Harvey Firestone played a role in the historic 3,230-mile trip from Washington to San Francisco.

“On July 7, 1919, lieutenant colonel Dwight D. Eisenhower took a coast-to-coast trip to learn whether troops and supplies could successfully cross America by truck,” said the tiremaker in a release. “One week later, Eisenhower reached Columbiana, Ohio, where Harvey Firestone invited Ike and his men to enjoy a fried chicken dinner at Firestone’s farm. As the convoy set out the following day, Firestone added two of his own trucks to the group. Firestone had his innovative pneumatic tires, Eisenhower mostly solid rubber. The convoy reached San Francisco 55 days later, achieving an average speed of 6 miles per hour.”

Firestone was responsible for the “Ship by Truck” movement, which encouraged manufacturers to move their products by truck, according to BFNAT. In 1956, Eisenhower signed the bill that created the U.S. interstate system.

Hercules Tire and Rubber Company (HTR), a subsidiary of American Tire Distributors (ATD), recently introduced the Ag-Trac F-2, a robust tire designed for multiple farm surfaces, HTR said. This tire is offered in two 16-in. sizes for 2WD front tractor wheel positions.

According to HTR, the Ag-Trac F-2 is built to withstand the demands of farm work, with a durable construction that ensures long-lasting performance. Its design allows for traction and grip on a variety of surfaces, making it ideal for use in fields, pastures and other agricultural environments. In addition to its durability, the company said its Ag-Trac F-2 also offers precise control and maneuverability, which it said is essential for navigating tight spaces and making sharp turns in the field.