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Richards is a name Baton Rougeans have long associated with Ford automobiles. And for many years, Richards Ford was this area's largest outlet for Ford cars and trucks.
But time has brought mnv changes to Baton Rouge and to Richards Ford. In fact, Richards Ford no longer exists. It was sold in 1986 and is now University Ford.
However, the Richards family hasn't gotten out of the new-car business. Richards Honda, located on Florida Boulevard next to the old Richards Ford, is the latest new car dealership to carry the Richards name and is owned and operated by Kent Richards, a third generation auto dealer.
Sonny Richards, former owner of Richards Ford, also remains involved in the new-car business and now owns World Cars Mazda. And Polly Lemoine, Kent's sister, participates in the Honda dealership's day-to-day operations.
Growing With Baton Rouge
The family business started in 1958 when Richards Ford first opened its doors on the corner of North and North 19th streets in downtown Baton Rouge. It was owned by J.W. Richards Jr., his brother Sonny and their father, J.W. Richards Sr., who died...