History of the International Harvester.
While it may be best known as a producer of agricultural and construction equipment, International Harvester traces its automotive roots back to 1907 when it began producing light-duty trucks in Chicago. Throughout the ensuing decades, International Harvester would be considered an innovator in the truck and 4x4 space, as well as a persistent and formidble contemporary of Chevrolet, Jeep, GMC, Ford, and Dodge.
The company later build and sold the Travelall – a model similar to the Chevrolet / GMC Suburban – that could haul the family with room to spare, released for the 1953 model year. Later, for 1957, the Travelall bodywork was used for a truck variation called the Travelette, which brought innovation to the market by way of offering the first four-door, six-passenger truck.
International Harvester later made the Scout, an early off-road-capable SUV and inspiration for the more mainstream Ford Bronco, Chevrolet Blazer, and Dodge Ramcharger. The Scout 80 debuted in 1960 (six years ahead of the Ford Bronco), with progressive upgrades and new generations by way of the Scout 800, Scout 810, and Scout II through 1980.
While International Harvester eventually consolidated its vast manufacturing operations and ceased road vehicle production in 1980, the brand lives on as an iconic 4x4 representation of America industry. For restorers, collectors, and enthusiasts, obtaining an International Harvester in any condition has been an enviable proposition.