First :JEEP” made in 1940 American Bantam Car Company, Butler,Pa. 1940 Karl K. Probst.of Detroit was hired by Bantam and they were the only company who said they could deliver a Prototype in 49 Day’s. Sept. 23,1940 Bantam drove a Prototype to Camp Holibard,Maryland only 30 minuties to spare. The Army tested the prototype and said it exceeded expectations. Then Ford and Willy’s watched, took notes and submitted their prototype.. Bantam only had about 1500 employes and could not produce the large number of Jeep’s the Army wanted. The order was given to Ford and Willy’s. In 1943 Willy’s was charged for false and mis-leading advertising that they created the Jeep.
There is much debate to what 'Jeep' really stands for. I've heard a bunch of differing histories of the origin of the Jeep. I've heard it comes from Popeye's little buddy Eugene. Antoher story is that the Army mechanics called it "Jeep" from 'GP' which stood for General Purpose.
One might also note that the Jeep was often called a 'peep' in cavalry reconnissance units. One might assume this was due to its use in scouting roles....
Never heard of that one T.A. Thanks for sharing. I saw a Mail Call episode a while ago on the History Channel about the history of the Jeep. It covered most of the stuff here. Mail Call is a great show.
