Publicity-savvy Ransom Olds used road trips to build a famous brand

• Born June 3, 1864, in Geneva, Ohio

• As a teenager, moved to Lansing, Mich., where family opened a machine and repair shop

• At 21, bought brother's interest in business and began to develop an improved steam engine

• 1892: Started company to make gasoline engines

• 1897: Formed Olds Motor Vehicle Co., which later became Olds Motor Works

• 1902: Olds Motor Works built first auto plant in Detroit

• 1904: Left Olds Motor Works to start Reo Motor Car Co.

• Died Aug. 26, 1950, in Lansing