William Wallace Crapo was a successful lawyer, politician and investor. He was also the uncle of William Durant. From a very early stage William Wallace Crapo backed William Durant’s endeavors, eventually leading to him having a large share of General Motors. Crapo worked at the Genesee County Savings Bank alongside many early GM backers including: Arthur Bishop, Charles Mott, Josiah Dort, and William Atwood. Crapo’s initial investment was for $1,000, buying 10 shares to help the Buick Motor Company move to Flint.
William Wallace Crapo has a main street named after him and his family near the Flint Cultural Center and Mott Community College. His family became well known in the area for their involvement in politics.