The Model T

Mike HennesseyOP-ED

In a previous article I mentioned having a 1926 Model “T” Ford, and I would like to share with you its history.

Many years ago, our Uncle Paul found a certain Model T sitting in a field, in Michigan.

After purchasing the car and getting it home (to Three Rivers in Michigan), he started the process of disassembling and rebuilding.

He literally took it completely apart, repaired what needed to be fixed and put the car back together.

The only part he didn’t tackle himself, was the upholstery.

Paul had a large garage across the road from his home, which provided ample room for this and his other projects.

After completing restoration of the “T”, Paul joined a local antique car club, and he participated in their activities and trips over the years. He hosted at least one event at his lakefront home.

He used to tell me how neat it was to look across the road and see the beautiful old cars parked in front of his garage. Paul was equally proud of his “T” and the large garage he had built.

For a few years, Paul and his wife, prior to her illness, went to Florida during the winter, where they had a home in a retirement community. It was during this time the “T”, much like today, began spending most of its time parked in a garage.

Once in a great while he would get the car out during the summer to give our kids or the neighborhood children a ride.

Stationary Position

As he got older, the car just sat in the garage. He finally offered me the car, and I jumped at the opportunity. Unfortunately, not being mechanically inclined, the car ended up sitting in my garage for a few years.

A couple years ago I decided it was time to sell the car.

Since the Model T only sits in the garage, I though it should have a new owner. No one in our family appeared to have any interest.

I did have one prospective buyer, however, our youngest son. Working through his mother, he convinced me I shouldn’t sell the car.

My son took the initiative to find someone who could repair the few items that needed attentionBy now, the Model T is in perfect running condition.

There is one problem however. The car still sits in the garage most of the time.

Neither I, nor my son seems to have the time to take it out, and Pauline, my wife, isn’t interested either.

Because of its limited use, I made the decision to sell the car, and I have it listed it in the newspaper.

It wasn’t an easy decision for me, knowing all the work Uncle Paul put into it and how much he enjoyed owning that Model T Ford.

However, I do believe it is the correct decision. Hopefully a new owner will have time to take the car out on a regular basis, have it in a parade, and or show and possibly take it on a tour.

Any of these activities would please me.

And I know Uncle Paul would be happy, knowing his car is on the road again.

Mr. Hennessey may be contacted at pmhenn@sbcglobal.net