One of the Oldest Auto Dealerships in Maine Has a New Owner

These days, when we see businesses open and close in a matter of months, it is rare to see one that has been around for decades.

This trend is true for businesses in all industries.  Boutique shops, bars, restaurants, and even auto dealers.

That being said, it does happen.

One of Maine’s oldest auto dealerships recently changed hands.

According to an article in the KJ, Ray Haskell Ford in Oakland has been purchased by Chris Gaunce’s Central Maine Motors Auto Group in Waterville.

The new addition has been renamed Central Maine Ford.

The article explains that the sale was finalized several days ago.  With this new addition, the Central Maine Motors Auto Group now sells Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep Ram, Fiat, Toyota, Chevy, and Ford.  Additionally, the company includes a collision center.  With the new addition, the company now has about 250 employees.

Two of the Oldest Car Dealerships in Maine

The article explains that the dealership has been around for over half a century.

Ray Haskell had reportedly owned the dealership for twenty years.  He had purchased it from Charlie Shuman, of Charlie’s Motor Mall.  Shuman had purchased the business from Dave Gould who had bought it from the Pullen family.  According to the Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home website, Horace Mann Pullen opened the business in 1958.

That means in 2024 the dealership celebrates its 66^th birthday.

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The KJ article explains that Central Maine Motors Auto Group is even older.  The business was reportedly started by Gaunce’s grandfather and two partners in 1935.  That means Central Maine Motors will turn 90 in 2025!