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The Glorious Rise and Fall of William Durant and His Magnificent Raymere Estate

From Humble Beginnings to Automotive Glory

William Durant's journey to prominence wasn't initially centered around automobiles or opulent villas. Born in Boston in 1861, Durant moved during childhood to Flint, Michigan—a city that would define his destiny. Despite not finishing high school, his natural talent for sales and boundless ambition propelled him forward. In his early twenties, Durant seized an unexpected opportunity: he acquired a patent for a new two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage for just $50, partnering with local businessman J. Dallas Dorsett to manufacture these vehicles.