How Hibbing, Minnesota Gave Birth to Greyhound and the Bus Industry

Hibbing, Minnesota, holds a special place in transportation history. Over a century ago, what began as a simple solution for miners on Minnesota’s Iron Range evolved into Greyhound, the largest intercity bus company in the United States. Today, Greyhound continues to connect millions of people, but its humble beginnings are preserved in the Greyhound Bus Museum in Hibbing.

A Humble Start with an Enterprising Vision

The roots of Greyhound date back 110 years, starting with a seven-seat Hupmobile and Swedish salesman Carl Wickman. Unable to sell the car, Wickman came up with an innovative idea—providing rides for a fee.

“They couldn’t sell the car (the Hupmobile), so they started giving rides and charging people,” explained Ron Dicklich, executive director of the Greyhound Bus Museum.

Initially, rides cost just 15 cents, primarily shuttling miners to and from work. It wasn’t until the late 1920s that the now-iconic Greyhound name emerged.

“People commented that as they go down the road they look like a sleek greyhound,” Dicklich added.

From Local Transport to National Connectivity

Over time, Greyhound grew into a vital part of America’s transportation system, offering affordable travel that connected people across the country. It played a critical role in providing accessible transit during a period when other options were limited.

“It was tough to get any place, but the buses went every place,” Dicklich shared. “All kinds of people (were taking the bus). Women with little kids, older people, guys that were going someplace or maybe trying to connect with a new job.”

The transformation of Greyhound’s buses—from wooden frames to metal, and from gas to diesel engines—highlighted advancements in technology and comfort.

“Creature feature comfort basically. Better seating, better riding,” said Jon Beckstrom, Greyhound operations manager, describing the gradual enhancements to the buses over the years.

A Historic Role in American Life

Greyhound buses became more than just a mode of transportation. During wartime, they carried soldiers between home and bases. During the Civil Rights Movement, they played a pivotal role, transporting Freedom Riders on their historic missions.

“There is so much history that is here for the taking, that we can’t take for granted. It’s part of America, and it will always be as far as I’m concerned,” Beckstrom reflected.

For those who worked for Greyhound, the memories run deep. Former drivers, mechanics, and depot workers still gather monthly in the Twin Cities to reminisce about their time on the road.

“You lived and breathed Greyhound. You never planned on being home during the holidays,” recalled Al Conquist, reflecting on the demanding but fulfilling lifestyle.

Steve Kenney shared how Greyhound became a family legacy. “My dad drove, started in 1945 after World War II,” he said. Both he and his brother, Jerry, followed in their father’s footsteps.

“I can drive these highways in my mind pretty much yet,” added Jerry Kenney.

Navigating Challenges

Despite its historic significance, Greyhound has faced numerous challenges. The rise of personal vehicles and air travel, coupled with strikes and bankruptcy, changed the operating landscape. Many of its smaller hubs were shuttered, but the company persevered. Today, Greyhound serves 1,800 locations across North America and transports 12 million passengers annually.

Preserving the Greyhound Legacy

The Greyhound Bus Museum in Hibbing stands as a tribute to this enduring legacy. Gene Nicolelli Junior, whose father helped establish the museum, emphasized the importance of preserving this history.

“My father, who was always into history, especially Americana. And so he said, ‘You know, this is interesting. How come nobody’s telling the story?’ And that’s really where it kind of started,” Nicolelli said.

One standout piece in the museum’s collection is the Scenic Cruiser. For Nicolelli, the bus represents cherished childhood memories.

“It’s up higher than the normal buses were, so you can look down and look out and see all the landscape,” he shared.

Today, the museum continues to honor the rich history of Greyhound, ensuring visitors understand its role in shaping America.

“I’m happy to know that this museum is still going strong after my father passed away and that people still want to see where Greyhound started,” Nicolelli added.

Visitors are invited to explore the fascinating artifacts and stories that showcase one of the most iconic companies in American history.

To learn more about the museum, click here.

Source: CBS News

Image: Greyhound Bus Museum