It's a dandy...

          Advertisement in The Raymond News, July 1964

The following information appears in Raymond's 125 Years of Memories Book published in 1996:

Bandy Chevrolet Company

On October 13, 1948, Elmer H. Bandy became an authorized Chevrolet dealer in Raymond, known as Bandy Chevrolet Company. Temporary space was rented in the Halford Garage, owned and operated by Hugh E. Halford, Sr. and his son, Hugh, Jr. An agreement was made with the Halfords to service new and used cars and trucks until a new building could be built and equipped.

Construction of a new 5,400 sq. ft. modern garage building was stared in February 1949. A formal opening of the new facilities was held on July 9, 1949. Bandy purchased the adjoining property with an 1,800 square foot building from Beatrice Gifford in 1957. This building was remodeled as a showroom large enough for seven new cars.

Improvements completed in 1959 included a 4,080 square foot addition to the main building, and in 1968, another addition was completed to provide additional parts and office space.

After 44 years as a franchised Chevrolet dealer, Elmer terminated his contract with Chevrolet Motor Division in August 1992. On October 25, 1992 a closing out sale was held on remaining parts in stock, shop and office equipment, and a collection of old vehicles. He continued to operate a used car lot at his location until his death on April 9, 1993.

The building remained vacant until January 12, 1996 when it was sold to Dave and Julie Watson who moved their collision repair shop there.

Elmer H. and Carroll C. Bandy resided in the Litchfield area before starting their business in Raymond in 1948. There are the parents of two children, Jane Elizabeth and John R.