John and Horace Dodge were pivotal figures in the American auto industry. After splitting with Henry Ford they laid the foundation for their own auto company, which became a huge presence in the auto industry.

In the process, they transformed the village of Hamtramck from a dusty little farming town of 3,500 people to a major city of 48,000 in the span of 10 years. This astonishing growth was due to the opening for the Dodge Main factory at the southern edge of Hamtramck in 1914.

Dodge Main became one of the largest factories in the world. And the Dodge Brothers - who were as flamboyant and notorious as they were talented - flourished until their untimely deaths within the space of one year of each other in 1920.

The story of the Dodge Brothers will be recounted in a special program - "Dodge Days Afternoon" at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at the Hamtramck Public Library, 2360 Caniff.

"Dodge Days Afternoon" will feature a slide show and lecture by Charles K. Hyde, author of "The Dodge Brothers: The Men, The Motor Cars, and The Legacy" and an authority on the Dodge Brothers and the Chrysler Corporation.

Hyde will recount the colorful lives of John and Horace Dodge with photos of their lives and work. Hyde will also be available to sign copies of his book.

In addition, the Hamtramck Historical Commission's collection of Dodge memorabilia will be on display at the library. And there will be a viewing of a film showing the demolition of Dodge Main in 1981.

History buffs, auto enthusiasts, former Dodge employees and anyone interested in this important and dramatic story of the local auto industry will find this presentation fascinating.

"Dodge Days Afternoon" is sponsored by the Hamtramck Historical Commission and the Hamtramck Public Library.

It's free and refreshments will be available. The library is easily accessibly, just a few blocks east of the I-75 - Caniff exit, 1 mile south of Davison.

For information, contact Greg Kowalski, chairman, Hamtramck Historical Commission.