Time Capsule: 1920 International Model H
As this photo shows, work trucks in the early part of the 20th century emphasized functionality over comfort, leaving drivers such as the one shown here literally out in the cold.

This 1920 International Model H is featured in the book International Harvester Trucks: The Complete Story by Patrick Foster. Photo: Patrick Foster/Motorbooks

This 1920 International Model H is featured in the book International Harvester Trucks: The Complete Story by Patrick Foster. Photo: Patrick Foster/Motorbooks
As this photo shows, work trucks in the early part of the 20th century emphasized functionality over comfort, leaving drivers such as the one shown here literally out in the cold.
The International Model H was a 3/4-ton truck introduced in 1916. This 1920 Model H with delivery body was used to transport "fresh beef guts aand provisions." The Model H featured the Renault-style sloping, coffin-shaped hood.
The driver in the open cab is bundled up against the cold weather. As as Patrick Foster, author of International Harvester Trucks: The Complete Story, observed: "In the early days of motoring, open cars and trucks were the norm; closed cabs wouldn't become dominant until later in the decade." Also note the tire chains on the rear wheel.
Work Truck eNews will be featuring historic images of fleet trucks on a regular basis. If you have an historic fleet truck image you'd like to share with readers, e-mail it to Lauren Fletcher or Chris Wolski.
Originally posted on Work Truck Online
More Vehicle Research

AI is changing what fleet managers can build & 849,000 vehicles recalled | AF News Recap
Fleet managers are learning how to build their own AI-powered tools, Stellantis is recalling nearly 849,000 vehicles, and this year’s Fleet Manager of the Year finalists have been revealed. Additionally, we’re examining how to identify repairs that warrant a second look. Here’s what you need to know this week.
Read More →
Geotab Study Finds $105M Opportunity in Reducing Fleet Idling
A study of more than 2.6 million commercial vehicles found that targeting the worst-performing fleet vehicles could save 24.2 million gallons of fuel annually.
Read More →
Stellantis Recalls Nearly 849,000 Vehicles for Rearview Camera Issue
Nearly 849,000 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles are affected by a software issue that can prevent the rearview camera image from appearing. Stellantis plans to address the issue through an over-the-air software update.
Read More →
2027 Jeep Grand Cherokee Adds Upland, Trailhawk and Overland Trims
The 2027 Grand Cherokee lineup adds new trim options, updated standard technology and a choice of V6 or turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains.
Read More →
The Tools Are Smarter, but Are Your Fleet Strategies? | AF News Recap
From a fleet manager’s critical first 90 days to why more technology doesn’t automatically mean better safety, this week is all about turning tools into results.
Read More →Beyond the Hype: How AI Can Make Fleets More Productive
How can AI actually make fleets more efficient?
Read More →
From a Major Ram Recall to Hands-On AI | AF News Recap
A massive Ram recall, new maintenance cost comparisons, the retirement of a longtime fleet industry leader, and hands-on AI are all making headlines. Here’s what fleet professionals need to know this week.
Read More →
Commercial Fleet Sales Rise 7.1% Through July 2026
Commercial fleet sales were the primary source of growth across the commercial, government and rental segments during the first seven months of 2026.
Read More →
Top 50 Executive Fleets
It is that time of year again! Time for the 2026 list of the Top 50 Executive Fleets, presented by Automotive Fleet and Volvo as part of its annual Fleet 500. Download now to see this year's list of companies!
Read More →
What Comes Next for Auto Driveaway?
A new Auto Driveaway feature called Arrive provides recipients with live location updates and ETAs during the final hour of a vehicle move, while fleet customers continue to have end-to-end shipment visibility through the company's customer portal.
Read More →