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History Lost History for Future Generations

Discussion in 'The Hokey Ass Message Board' started by Gas City Gearhead, Aug 19, 2024.

  1. Budget36
    Joined: Nov 29, 2014
    Posts: 14,335

    Budget36
    Member

    In the first post (I’ll paraphrase) you asked a question along the lines of “where are the future collectors” and “is this stuff in a garage somewhere “. Again, not you exact words, but the gist of them.
    So, right now you have inherited a collection of memorabilia, from an 83 year old person who passed away.
    So if you think about that, those who collect “stuff”, related to anything, want to keep it until they are gone. They enjoy having it.
    But flip side is if folks do the above, it’s out of circulation until the person either sells it or the end occurs.
    It’s hard to collect what may not be available.
     
  2. mrspeedyt
    Joined: Sep 26, 2009
    Posts: 1,017

    mrspeedyt
    Member

    the challenge is passing collectibles on to younger collectors that appreciate history. (and hopefully willing to share this history with others). not everyone values what treasures we have.
     
  3. Moriarity
    Joined: Apr 11, 2001
    Posts: 33,540

    Moriarity
    SUPER MODERATOR
    Staff Member

    I have had things passed on to me, mainly because people liked the way I displayed my collection. This place is kinda like a small museum of hot rod and custom artifacts of the 50’s and 60’s. When possible I immortalize the pieces passed to me with a brass plaque so that nobody will forget….
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  4. Stooge
    Joined: Sep 9, 2015
    Posts: 528

    Stooge
    Member

    This is actually the second time this year that im helping someone clean out a house full of parts. The first one a few months ago, a friend's father passed last year, who's family used to own a clutch and machine/ parts store for decades, and closed up shop in the early 2000's when the grandfather passed. All of the inventory, along with all of the dad's car and motorcycle stuff, all crammed into a garage, attic, and basement.
    This was maybe a 3rd of just the NOS stuff that had been sitting on the shelves for 25yrs
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    And left along with an '80s corvette, that was sold, a handful of motorcycles and a 69 chevelle the dad had since the 70s,that had a blown engine for 25'ish yrs. The chevelle is currently in my garage, getting it back on the road for her. Its the car she grew up going for cruises in with him, so its my good deed for the year.
    All sorts of NOS speed and aftermarker parts filling the walls
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    And a few pictures from the current work in progress cleaning
    We had to excavate a model a tudor from the basement, (my friend was gifted that) and under the deck was a some flavor of tub with cool scalloping on it and a 28/29 roadster body that came home with me. Countless rear ends, front axles, wishbones, wheels, tires, just everything. Moved some boxes and found an old GM sideshift trans tucked behind the furnace, just alot of instances of stuff like that. I met the cousin a handful of times and he was a real good guy, and the surviving daughter is happy that a "young guy" (im 36) is taking alot of the stuff and putting it to good use, and im happy that i'll have the beginnings of a free roadster. Some of the stuff not hot rod/ antique, usable stuff, another friend is scrapping, which is inevitable as some of it is just car parts and junk, but we're trying make sure we save the interesting, usable stuff to find it a good home.
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  5. I never wanted to collect 1:1 stuff. Just never had enuf room. I have always loved touring Pick-A-
    Part looking for widgets that could be adapted to a rod build though. Sadly, the good stuff, Chrome pot metal, polished stainless, Hotchkiss rear ends, not computer trannys, classic cast iron, etc., is no longer available at the yards. Everything nowadays is plastic and/or modular.
    My collectibles are in my craft room in the house. I have several hundred mostly Willys die cast from micro scale to 1/6 scale, my modest built model collection, and a bunch of Marx vintage O scale train toys.
    View attachment 6163471 View attachment 6163472 View attachment 6163473 View attachment 6163474 IMG_1071.jpg IMG_1072.jpg IMG_1073.jpg
     
  6. The 50 ended up going back to the guy who sold it to Nertz in 1961!! He has tooled it around town here and there, but he's also in his mid-80's, so I don't know how far he's been going in the old 50. The 40, well, it was sold to a Corvette/Muscle car collector locally who called me looking for "as much history and information as possible". I was almost going to bite but when he added "I don't really care for the car at all, it means nothing to me." I instantly knew he wants to flip it, along with any history I give him. I haven't made up my mind yet...
     
  7. Awesome, awesome work. So glad to see others out there in similar situations. I can appreciate your dedication and hard work! That looks like an amazing collection, so glad to see history preserved. Thanks for sharing!
     
    Stooge and chryslerfan55 like this.
  8. I completely understand what you are saying. I guess I could have worded it differently. My question could be summed up as "How many collectors and pioneers of this hobby have someone, whether a "younger" friend, or family member, to help out with estates and sift and sort through their lives once they are no longer here, and how many who are in that position can recognize the historical significance of what is there? One of the things I found in Nertz collection was a clear plastic Bonneville collector mug, full of "salt". I'm assuming it's the real deal salt, as he made many trips there over the years. When I found it, one of the people there not involved in the process said "That's an odd place to keep kitchen salt."
     
    mitch 36 and Budget36 like this.
  9. Wow, thank you for sharing sir. Very well done, I do like the representation and display, an amazing tribute. I think I would like to do something similar, and display his collection for myself and others to enjoy. We have already transplanted his mailbox from his house to our backyard. It's a start. Thanks again for the inspiration!
    IMG_5158.JPG
     
  10. Budget36
    Joined: Nov 29, 2014
    Posts: 14,335

    Budget36
    Member

    Some folks collect art, post stamps, etc. they keep and display them.
    They probably enjoy them more than those who can see them.
    I’m sorry I missed the intent of your first post, but your reply to me sums it up nicely.
    If it makes you and others enjoy the collection it’s a good thing.
     
    Gas City Gearhead likes this.
  11. 57JoeFoMoPar
    Joined: Sep 14, 2004
    Posts: 6,344

    57JoeFoMoPar
    Member

    I get the OP's point but I also understand the flip side of it as well. We all know at least a few car guys with massive hoards of parts, collectibles, speed equipment, etc., all of which has been hidden from the public for decades. It's not a rare situation. If these parts that have been hoarded away for years were out in the masses, they could have been used and enjoyed for years. Additionally, it artificially creates scarcity among the market for them because the parts exist, they're just locked away in private collections never getting used.

    I've gotten to the other side of it more now, where I'm willing to part with stuff either I don't use or will never use, even if it's cool and rare. It does me no good sitting on the shelf. The money isn't life changing but stroking it to telling people that I have this rare shit is even less impactful. And maybe someone else can use it and enjoy it.

    But I understand the idea of collecting. It's a luxury to have more than I need. We're all guilty of it.
     
  12. jnaki
    Joined: Jan 1, 2015
    Posts: 10,095

    jnaki

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    “We can please some of the people most of the time, but , we cannot please all of the people all of the time…” heard over the year in all sorts of situations in the big game of “life.”


    Hello,

    For as much activity as we did during out young lives with skates, bicycles, cars, etc, we loved what we did. For the newest generation, as much as they have been exposed to the “hot rod” influence, interests change and we are all individuals. My wife was not a car person and probably will never wrench a single tool on a project or two.

    But, for all of this time together since we met in college in 1966, we have seen eye to eye on 98% of topics and information acquired over the years being together. Back then and even now, all we want to do is be together as we have been through the 20 somethings to the family life to relatives incursions, and a fabulous, granddaughter.

    Yes, old age is not the way we pictured it as teenagers/20 somethings. But, as we grew up, we developed a sense of ideas and ways to live with our lives to satisfy our own direction and environment. We have been in a low key lifestyle since 1966 and have lived in So Cal along the coast in what seems like forever.

    We have adapted to all thing thrown at us and absorbed 30 % if any and lived our own lives together. Kind of an “us against the world” attitude. We tried to have some influence about hot rod history on our son as he grew up. He did work in the garage when “dad” was out there doing some mechanical work or repair on the family cars. We did not have a lot of money and our choices were almost to a struggling direction. But, we knew if we bought a house, that would be a stable value to last us into the future.

    What about the hot rod influence? As much as we tried, with books, stories, photographs, visits to old shops and merchandise, everyone has their own way to absorb what is placed in front of them. So, if it somehow connects a few lightbulbs inside, then it works. If the lightbulbs are still flickering, then other influences or paths will take over and supplement all that we as young parents have done. the old saying… about leading a horse to water…etc…

    Jnaki

    So, for what is left of our stuff? Our son and granddaughter can go through it all and decide what to do with our history. It is now up to them. Photos and memorabilia opens some eyes along the way, we just gave them both a bunch of pdf format stories and photos of them as they were little. Even as close as that, they both agreed that it was historic and loved each pdf form.

    Then as we gave them both our own 40s to present history in photos and stories, they were totally surprised and happy to see history of our family. Now, they can do what they please with what they will get or see when it is their time with our history.

    Cars? Well, yes, if it fits, they can use them, then fine. If not, it is their lives to their future. So, if our history plays a part, then fine. We know they will always have memories of growing up with us and remember the stories we all shared together. That is family history. Not necessarily about hot rods or surfing or even schools. We taught them what they absorbed and it is now their values and philosophies to deal with in the coming future. Not ours. Despite the attraction of hot rods. No, it is not a failure, but as the generations come and go, we taught them to be individuals and make their own decisions.

    Note:

    As for us in college, we had a terrific time and our granddaughter is now experiencing the same environment as a current college student. But, her life as well as our son’s lives are different from ours. At least we were able to scope out those that were walking towards us on the campus walkways with eyes wide open. These days, we saw tons of students walking with both eyes on device in their hands and not taking in any of their surroundings, even to the aspect of saying hello, to others.

    If we had nice hot rods, we would donate them to the local car museums. But, they must fit somewhere in the overall collections. Some museums are not to the hot rod as the main draw, so the fit may be harder. Donations are done all of the time. If they do accept your donations, then you get some aspect of longer life of your work. Sometimes, donations are also tax deductible, but you will have to ask your tax prep person. YRMV

    If we had our 58 Impala as last seen or built, the 65 El Camino as pristine as it was, those would fit in a place like the Lion’s Dragstrip Museum. Even the 327 powered 40 Ford Sedan Delivery would have been a good donation as it showed early history of the hot rod culture.
     
  13. I appreciate the response. It definitely outlines many aspects of the hobby.
    I woke up recently one morning and was thinking about the collection, where I'm at in my life, etc. Sort of a contemplating thing, haha!
    I realized that now I am, at 47, roughly the same age as these mentors I grew up around, when I first realized how cool they were, how awesome their cars were, and their memorabilia. Things are coming full circle, and through the car hobby locally, we have quite a few friends who are our childrens age (early 20's), who are becoming more appreciative of the old history and listen intently to our stories.
    I know my children will accept the massive collection of what I have, and what Nertz has left me. They were there every step of the way cleaning out the estate, and I did my best to educate them on the history I found along the way.
    I do feel fortunate they are interested in the collection. We have two 56 Ford Fairlanes, and each child already knows they will inherit them one day. I feel very fortunate to have kids who have the interest. I also know not everyone is that fortunate. I know I can't save the hot rod and custom hobby in it's entirety (obviously), but I will do my part. I will probably sell off some items, and enjoy what I keep. I truly appreciate everyones opinions and experiences on here. It gives me hope and ease for the future!!
     
    alanp561, pprather and jnaki like this.
  14. stuart in mn
    Joined: Nov 22, 2007
    Posts: 2,486

    stuart in mn
    Member

    There are younger guys who are carrying torch. One in particular that comes to mind is Matt at Irontrap Garage, check out his videos on YouTube - they are constantly finding large stashes of parts and memorabilia from older collectors, so they can be passed on to others and not lost to the junkman.
     
  15. goldmountain
    Joined: Jun 12, 2016
    Posts: 4,640

    goldmountain

    I remember Nertz. He had a 1953 Canadian Pontiac club coupe that was featured in a Tex Smith Custom Cars magazine and a cartoon of Stroker painted on the glovebox of his '40 doing the "Calvin" pose on a Chevy.
     
    Algoma56 and Gas City Gearhead like this.
  16. That's great to hear, I will definitely check that out!
     
  17. Yessir, that's the man! The 53 he sold awhile ago (it was my favorite kustom all time, "Blue Northern"), and i have the pic of Stroker framed on my wall. He was rough and jagged, Nertz was, but the real deal!
     
    Budget36 likes this.
  18. Smokeshow
    Joined: Oct 2, 2011
    Posts: 147

    Smokeshow
    Member

    If you are looking to liquidate a collection, you might contact Iron Trap Garage. @IronTrap is a member on here and does excellent videos on youtube. They buy estates and get things back into the world to give them new life!
     
  19. Bullet Nose
    Joined: Nov 20, 2001
    Posts: 2,638

    Bullet Nose
    Member

    I looked at this photo you posted and see several car club plaques I don't have shown on my website. Although I don't physically own them, I have collected over 11,000 photos to document the car clubs that had plaques. Perhaps some day you could post better photos of the seven plaques encircled with white lines on my Car Club Plaques thread. I'll then add them to my site so others can view them too.

    HAMB-Gas City Gearhead.JPG
     
    Okie Pete, alanp561 and 51 mercules like this.
  20. 2OLD2FAST
    Joined: Feb 3, 2010
    Posts: 5,624

    2OLD2FAST
    Member
    from illinois

    I much prefer rough & jagged vs smooth & refined , with rough & jagged you know where you stand instead of like with the refined marshmallows !
     
  21. kls50
    Joined: Sep 9, 2013
    Posts: 237

    kls50
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    I hope you don't feel guilty for the inheritance from Nertz. My Uncle passed away two years ago and three weeks before he died gave me an inexpensive pistol my grandfather bought from Sears in the mid 1950's. It means more to me than you can imagine. I am honored. He could have given it to his brother (my dad) or one of my two brothers and a sister. I still miss him today. Sounds to me Nertz picked the perfect fellow to carry on.
     
  22. hotrodjack33
    Joined: Aug 19, 2019
    Posts: 4,387

    hotrodjack33
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    At first I thought "Gee, I wish some old guy would give me all of his cool stuff".
    Then I realized...oh wait... I AM an old guy.
    Maybe I should be giving MY stuff away...;)
     
  23. I really appreciate the kind words. And similar to the pistol for yourself, some of the items (such as the scrapbook from a local car club I grew up around) means more to me than anything. Everytime I see something in my garage or my basement from Nertz collection, I literally pause for a moment and smile thinking about him, and what his collection meant.
     
    hotrodjack33 and alanp561 like this.
  24. You know, when I was younger, I'd hang out with the "older" group of guys at cruise nights or their garages. Not once did I ever think of what would happen to their collection. Now, especially since I'm older and in this position, I will never take for granted the fact he left all of this to me, I am truly appreciative.
     
    hotrodjack33 and alanp561 like this.
  25. Mo rust
    Joined: Mar 11, 2012
    Posts: 853

    Mo rust
    Member

    I've got a pretty major hoard of cars and parts including 10 finished Ford rods from the early-mid 30's and a few newer plus 6 project model A's already on 32 frames and enough parts to put together another half dozen model A bodies and a stack of already boxed 32 frames to put them on. I've got a good friend who is 42 that I work with every weeknight who is as ate up with hot rods as I am and a 3 year old grandson who's first word literally was "coupe". I'm just 63 so hopefully I have several years to turn more of my projects into drivable cars. After I'm gone I hope my friend can continue in my place of mentoring my grandson. I've got a few other younger friends that I can influence to enjoy the hobby too.
     
  26. tubman
    Joined: May 16, 2007
    Posts: 7,332

    tubman
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    It never ends. I'm 82 and just bought an Edmunds 2-2 manifold for my '51 Olds Rocket. Will I ever use it? Probably not (I already have two dual quad and an Offenhauser three deuce manifold for it), but I HAD to have the Edmunds dual. And I still buy every cheap Mallory flattop distributor I come across (there are a lot more than you'd think).
     
  27. There are people who should know better that don't see the value in anything automotive, a story on that-

    Jim Gage the first promotor (in a partnership with Ed Fuze) Fonda speedway Fonda NY which NASCAR Sportsman 1953-mid year 1965 when they went NASCAR Modified (mixed fields Sportsman Modified) until 1972 when Fonda dropped NASCAR.

    Jim Gage was an attorney with a large house full of antiques, when he died the antique dealers raided the house.

    A guy I know who deals in racing memorabilia went to the house a few days later and asked the dealer if there was any racing/Fonda speedway memorabilia.

    He was point to a closet in Gage's office where he found several NASCAR press kits including one for the 1956 Souther 500! (Press kits included posters that were to be hung up at the local speedway to promote other NASCAR races like the Southern 500.)

    He made an offer on what he found which the dealers accepted with shock and asked "Is that racing stuff valuable? We filled and sent a whole dumpster of that stuff to the dump!"

    I don't know much about Chippendale Furniture, but I do know people collect it and it is valuable to someone.
     
    Algoma56 likes this.
  28. Bullet Nose
    Joined: Nov 20, 2001
    Posts: 2,638

    Bullet Nose
    Member

    I hope Gas City Gearhead sees my post and responds with better photos of these 7 plaques, so I can add them to my website to document these clubs ...

    Gas City Kustoms
    Injectors
    High Tones
    Orbiteers
    Road Angels
    Mad Hatters
    Friday Nite Cruisers
     

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