The proud history of the company originates with its founder, Freda L. Lockhart. Her career in cars began in Welch, West Virginia, near the coal camp where she was born the 10th child in her family.

Joining an accounting firm after college graduation in 1949, she was sent to audit local car dealerships and thus the love for dealerships began. She quickly landed another job at her first dealership, Clark Pontiac, in Welch.

From 1958 to her introduction to Indianapolis in 1965 at Cleverly Cadillac, her accomplishments in the automotive industry were demonstrated through her rapid rise through the ranks: secretary-treasurer, used car manager, new car manager and filling in as parts and service manager.

In January 1972, after the death of James Cleverly, Lockhart applied to become a dealer. Cadillac agreed and Lockhart became the first woman signed as an “Exclusive Cadillac Dealer” in the entire United States.

In 1974, after graduation from college, Freda’s son Marc joined the business. In 1975, Marc’s sister Lynn also joined the family business. Lynn’s husband, Chuck Kimmel joined the business in 1981.

The year 1988 would mark an important milestone for the company. The Lockhart family agreed to represent Saturn in the Indianapolis market area – a move made to further strengthen the path of continued growth. Again, Freda would be the first woman granted franchises to sell Saturn.

The 90’s marked a period of decided success for the company; growing from one dealership to five. In November of 1990, Saturn of Indianapolis opened for business, followed by Saturn of Greenwood and Lockhart Cadillac Greenwood in January, 1993. Saturn of Fishers was completed and opened in December of 1995.

On October 25, 2000, Lockhart Automotive Group once again demonstrated its reputation as a progressive, growing business, signing as the new regional HUMMER dealer.

This company is truly a family affair. Although Freda Lockhart retired in 1999, her son Marc Lockhart is the Dealer Operator and directs the daily operations of the Cadillac and HUMMER franchises while her daughter Lynn Kimmel is the Dealer Operator and directs the daily operations of the Saturn Retail Facilities. In addition to the automotive franchises, the group owns IDM an aftermarket accessory company. Many members of the family work in various capacites for the company to help continue the excellence.

“There’s only one way to do it and that’s the right way. There’s only one time to do it and that’s right now” – Freda Lockhart