About

ABOUT US

1935: Joseph Ruge opens a one-pump Sunoco fueling station and limited repair facility across from a pillar of the Rhinebeck community, the Beekman Arms. Little did he know that his business would one day become a pillar of the community as well.

Later that year Ruge's becomes an authorized Oldsmobile dealer. Joseph's brother Herman, who sells cars in the Bronx, helps ship vehicles by railway to Joseph. As they arrive at the Rhinecliff Train Station, Joseph unloads them by himself.

1938: Early success empowers Joseph to move to a 3-bay garage at 6444 Montgomery Street, just ¼ mile from its original location, but "much too far out of town," according to locals. Son Lewis Ruge, who still works tirelessly at that location (you can usually spot him in cargo shorts, no matter what the temperature outside), is born later that year.

1949: An Oldsmobile showroom is added; the brand would be a mainstay in American driveways, with some families owning more than one at a time, for the better part of the next fifty years.

1950s: Sales/Service/Parts/Accessories businesses all gain momentum during this decade as Ruge's solidifies its reputation for exceptional customer service. Big brand sophistication, small-town values: hallmarks of the Ruge's business, then and now.

1963: After completing college and serving for 3 years as an Officer in the United States Air Force, Lewis brings his skillset back to his hometown, joining his Dad as an official partner in the business.

1970: Ever a visionary, Lewis envisions a potential market for a smaller economy car. He takes action on that instinct, making Ruge's one of the country's very first Subaru dealers. Shortly thereafter, an historic gas shortage for Americans ensues.

Meanwhile, at home, Lewis and Charlotte are raising three daughters: Kristin, Gretchen, and Erica. The family is heavily involved in volunteer work and become highly respected and beloved - not just for their role in the business community, but for all they do to enhance quality of life for others.

1985:  Ruge's opens its Chrysler Plymouth Dodge location in the Town of Red Hook.

1989: Ruge's opens a wholesale parts and accessories store in Red Hook, employing more locals and adding to its position as an industry leader in the Hudson River Valley.

1997: As the demand for Subaru grows exponentially, Ruge's helps beautify the village of Rhinebeck by building a brand-new showroom across the street from its original Oldsmobile location.

2016: The business expands with the purchase of Audia Motor Sales, and is now Ruge's Chevrolet, in beautiful Millbrook, NY.

2020: Rhinebeck Ford is now Ruge's Ford! Our newest location, and third store in Rhinebeck, NY is located right on 9G, just up the road from Ruge's CDJ.

2023: Ruge's Automotive is now Ruge's Auto Group!

TODAY: Operated in part by third-generation owner Kristin Ruge Hutchins, with over 100 employees in its 4 locations, Ruge's Auto has something for everyone: a healthy, positive workplace that fosters ongoing professional and personal development for employees; an easy-to-navigate, transparent sales and service experience for customers; beautiful, modern facilities, and an unwavering willingness to support the needs of neighbors and nonprofits in the community.