Tucker Tribune

This Month in Tucker History

2012-02-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

1948 - In early 1948, Tucker Corporation was still looking for a suitable engine to power the "Car of Tomorrow." The Jacobs Aircraft Engine Company of Pottstown, PA and Aircooled Motors of Syracuse, NY both became involved in development projects for the Tucker. By February, Jacobs reported that the Ex-Cell-O fuel injection had been received and was favorably tested on one of their engines. Tucker engineers, out of fear that Jacobs would not be able to deliver its engines in a timely manner, told them to drop the fuel injection project. Within a week, the Jacobs engine was ready for testing by Tucker but the project was eventually dropped entirely as being unsatisfactory. Without letting a week pass, Preston Tucker ordered that, "two cars be produced as soon as possible," using the "Franklin" aircraft engine built by Aircooled Motors. The Ypsilanti Machine and Tool Company, managed by Preston's mother, had successfully converted the air-cooled helicopter engine to water-cooling. At the same time, Tucker engineer Ben Parsons proposed that he be allowed to build three of his "339" engines, but the project doesn't get off the ground.

1949 - Fast-forward a year to February 1949: Federal District Attorney Otto Kerner made the announcement that a Grand Jury investigation of Tucker Corporation would take place. Kerner, who later became a Federal Judge, the Governor of Illinois, and authored the famous Kerner Report while serving on President Johnson's Race Relations Committee, served as Prosecutor of the Tucker case. Ironically, in 1973 Tucker's former mimesis Otto Kerner, now Governor of Illinois, was sent to Federal prison for a conviction on charges of mail fraud, bribery, perjury, and income tax evasion tied to his dealings in stock of a racetrack operation.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Happy Birthday, Alex Tremulis!

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-08:00

Alex Tremulis' rendering of the Tucker Torpedo

Alexander Sarantos Tremulis was born 98 years ago today. As chief stylist for the Tucker Corporation, he played a crucial role in making Preston Tucker's dream into an automotive reality. Read more about Alex on the TACA website and on Wikipedia.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Wikipedia)

Tucker No. 1043 Sells for $2,915,000!

2012-01-21T16:55:00.000-08:00

Tucker No. 1043

Just moments ago, Tucker No. 1043 sold at Barrett-Jackson's 2012 Scottsdale, AZ auction for $2,915,000 (including fees). We believe this to be a record auction price for a Tucker '48. Recent auction prices for cars in comparable condition include $1,127,500 for Tucker No. 1045 in 2010 and $1,017,500 for Tucker No. 1038 in 2008.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Barrett-Jackson website)

Sneak Preview of TACA Convention 2012

2012-01-18T08:37:00.000-08:00

After an absence of 20 years, TACA will be returning to Auburn, IN this year! TACA Directors Brent Morris, John Schuler and Michael Leasor have taken on the task of planning and hosting this year's convention, which is scheduled for June 21-24, 2012. A centerpiece of the event is expected to be a visit to the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Museum. Check back in the coming weeks and months for more details.

(Post credit: Brent Morris and Kit Fox)

Tucker No. 1008 Featured in One of "Hemmings Blog's" Top 10 Posts for 2011

2012-01-16T12:52:00.000-08:00

Rudy Schroeder accepts his
raffle prize in September 1949

The stranger-than-fiction story of Tucker No. 1008 is number five of the top 10 posts in Hemmings Blog that was selected as the best of 2011. Click here to read Mike Schutta's fascinating report.

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Mike Schutta; photo credit: Hemmings Blog)

Tucker No. 1043 to be Auctioned Next Weekend

2012-01-15T12:10:00.000-08:00

Tucker No. 1043 from the Ron Pratte Collection

Barrett-Jackson will be auctioning Tucker No. 1043, the jewel of the Ron Pratte Collection, at its annual Scottsdale, AZ auction next weekend. Although the Barrett-Jackson festivities began today in Scottsdale, Lot No. 5008 is not expected to cross the auction block until sometime after 5:00 PM (MST) on Saturday, January 21st. Several other holdings from the Ron Pratte Collection will be offered in the 5000-series premium lots, including a 1947 Bentley Mark VI, a 1957 DeSoto Adventurer convertible, a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS Baldwin-Motion coupe and two 2007 Ford Shelby GT500s (coupe and convertible).

Live coverage of this Saturday's auction will be presented on Speed TV (consult your local listings for time and channel).

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Barrett-Jackson website)

Final Tucker Poll Results

2012-01-11T13:09:00.000-08:00

We want to thank the 218 Tucker fans who voted in our poll about the number of Tucker '48s you've seen in person. The poll closed (after more than 18 months) on New Year's Eve 2011, and here are the final results:

26% - No Tuckers seen

43% - 1 to 3 Tuckers seen

14% - 4 to 10 Tuckers seen

17% - 11 or more Tuckers seen

(P.S. - I'm hoping to see my 22nd Tucker sometime in the coming year)

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 12

2012-01-10T13:02:00.000-08:00

The latest issue of Tucker Topics includes two feature articles by TACA President Jay Follis: one on the new, year-round operations at the Gilmore Car Museum, and the other on the story of the 4 fiberglass Tucker replicars from the 1988 film Tucker: The Man and His Dream. Check your mailbox for your issue!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

The Passing of Two TACA Members

2012-01-05T17:29:00.000-08:00

We are saddened to report the recent passing of two TACA members. Today, we learned that founding TACA member Joe Walker (TACA #25) passed away after a brief illness on November 15, 2011, in Wichita, KS. Joe would have been 80 years old today. Click here for Joe's obituary.

Tucker No. 1051

We also learned yesterday of the sudden passing of Chick DeLorenzo on January 3, 2012. Chick was the proud owner of Tucker No. 1051.

TACA would be honored to have you share your memories of Joe and Chick for publication in an upcoming edition of Tucker Topics. Please e-mail them to topics@tuckerclub.org.

(Post credit: Jay Follis and Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

Tuckers Abroad: A Postscript

2012-01-04T06:12:00.000-08:00

We thank you for joining us on our journey to visit Tucker '48s around the globe over the past few months. Check back with us next month as we begin a new series of feature articles on the fascinating stories of the four "missing" Tuckers!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

This Month in Tucker History

2012-01-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

1946 - The January 1946 issue of PIC Magazine featured a story by Charles T. Pearson, a freelance automotive reporter, about the revolutionary “Tucker Torpedo.” The excitement produced by that one article is said to have been responsible for nearly 150,000 letters and telegrams being sent to Tucker Corporation. Many examples of those letters are now part of the Tucker Historical Collection and Library at the Gilmore Car Museum, TACA’s national repository of Tucker archives.

1947 - By 1947, US automobile production, which had ceased in February 1942 due to the war, was slowly beginning to return. Demand for new cars–any new car–was so great dealers could sell the few autos they received to the car-hungry public at nearly any price. The pressure was on Preston Tucker and he knew he needed to get his dream car on the market soon or risk not seeing it happen at all.

Alex Tremulis had landed the styling consultant contract with Tucker Corporation for his employer, the design firm of Tammen and Denison of Chicago, IL, in late December. Tremulis, basing his work upon the “Tucker Torpedo” design earlier produced for Tucker by George Lawson, presented Tucker with several new renderings. Tremulis would eventually be hired outright to become the Tucker Corporation Styling Chief.

1948 - The pace of events remains hurried for the Tucker Corporation well into January 1948. It was then the company entered an unsuccessful bid with the War Assets Administration to obtain the blast furnace property from Cleveland-Republic Steel. Although having submitted the higher bid, the government awarded the foundry to competitor Kaiser-Frazer.

The report on development and testing of the original Tucker 589 engine stated, “it failed in nearly all respects,” thus confirming the earlier decision to stop further work on it and seek alternatives to power the Tucker ‘48. The company had ordered six Franklin/Aircooled Motors 6 ALV-335 engines and parts from Bell Helicopter in December, and now directed the Ypsilanti Machine and Tool Company, owned by Preston Tucker’s mother, to undertake conversion of the engines to water-cooling.

At the same time, the Tucker Corporation placed an order with Jacobs Engine Company for 50 helicopter engines very similar to the competing Franklin/Aircooled Motors being worked on in Ypsilanti, MI. Within three days the order was increased to 100 Jacobs engines.

Preston Tucker took time away from the plant to attend a demonstration of the Kinmont Safe-Stop Disc Brakes conducted by Dick Hulse at the Chicago Police Department. He selects the Kinmont disc brakes for use in all production Tuckers, but none make it into the pilot production cars (decades later, Dick Hulse becomes one of the champion supporters and promoters of the Tucker Automobile Club of America, Inc.—TACA’s true Goodwill Ambassador).

1949 - By January of 1949 the pace at the Tucker Corporation had nearly become non-existent. True Magazine reported that “a small group of workers returning on their own time have been able to complete six more Tucker cars,” since the May 1948 plant layoff had left only a skeleton crew. These returning workers would eventually complete 13 more cars for a total of 50 pilot cars before the venture completely ended.

It was also in 1949 that Preston Tucker made a formal protest to Thomas Hart of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Chicago office for their “leaks” to the press.

1950 - By the end of January 1950, the trial against Preston Tucker and his co-defendants had ended with an acquittal on all charges. Yet the damage had been done: now poor public opinion and the lack of funds to continue sealed Tucker Corporation’s fate.

1960 - Charles T. Pearson, author of the 1946 PIC Magazine article and later Tucker Corporation PR man, publishes his book “The Indomitable Tin Goose - The True Story of Preston Tucker and His Car” in January 1960. This in-depth look into the Tucker legend was reprinted in 1974 and again in 1988 in paperback, following the movie “Tucker: The Man and His Dream.” Today, it is considered a prized collectable.

1995 - January 1, 1995 marked the debut of the new cable network “The History Channel” with a series called “Automobiles,” and the Tucker ’48 was featured on the series’ third episode. Days later, on January 5th, Vera Tucker, Preston Tucker’s wife, passed away. She had been known as a tower of strength in her support of Preston and her children. We owe Vera a great deal for “Keeping the Legend Alive,” as without her assistance, the 1988 movie would have likely never been made.

2011 - "Barn-find" Tucker No. 1010 sold for $797,500 in "as is" condition at Gooding & Company's annual Scottsdale, AZ auction on January 22, 2011. Tucker No. 1010 had sat unrestored in a storage shed in Washington state for more than 40 years.

(PS - This is our 200th post!

(Post credit: Jay Follis and Kit Fox)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

Preston Tucker's daughter, Mary Lee, christens the "Tin Goose" prototype
(and Tucker himself, too) at its Chicago introduction on June 19, 1947

Even if you don't have your own Tucker '48 to christen with champagne tonight, TACA raises its glass to you and yours, and wishes you a very Happy New Year!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: OldCarsWeekly.com)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

(Image credit: Tucker Historical Collection & Library archives)

Vote on our Poll!

2011-12-23T17:57:00.000-08:00

Since this blog started in August 2010, we've been polling visitors about how many Tucker 48s they've seen. Our poll will close on New Year's Eve, so if you haven't already done so, enter your answer now. You'll find the poll at the bottom of the right-hand sidebar. We'll post the final results in a couple of weeks.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker No. 1043 Auction Preview

2011-12-23T08:22:00.000-08:00

In less than a month, Tucker No. 1043 will be crossing the Barrett-Jackson auction block in Scottsdale, AZ. Here are a few photos to whet your appetite.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credits: Barrett-Jackson website)

It's Winter!

2011-12-21T21:30:00.000-08:00

(Image credit: free-clipart-pictures.net)

Happy Hanukkah!

2011-12-20T16:48:00.000-08:00

TACA celebrates the first night of the Festival of Lights.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Microsoft clip art)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 11

2011-12-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

The latest issue of our monthly print newsletter, Tucker Topics, includes tales of this year's travels for Tucker No. 1013, as well an information about next month's Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale, AZ, where Tucker No. 1043 will be crossing the auction block. There's also information about ordering the 2011 TACA conference DVD.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Gilmore Car Museum Now Open Year-Round

2011-12-19T13:05:00.000-08:00

Tucker No. 1047

We're pleased to report that the Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, MI--the home of both Tucker No. 1047 and the Tucker Historical Collection & Library--is now open all year. Click here for more information.

(Post credit: Jay Follis; photo credit: TACA website)

A Tucker Abroad: No. 1049

2011-12-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

Tucker No. 1049

The final stamp in the passport for our tour of ex-patriate Tucker '48s will be in the United Kingdom. Tucker No. 1049 was relocated to Old Oxted, Surrey, England in 2007 after an extensive restoration in Southern California. Owner John Jackson has created a website dedicated to No. 1049 (http://www.tuckertorpedo49.com/), which includes many photographs and other information about the car.

Before traveling "across the pond," No. 1049 passed through the hands of several prominent American Tucker '48 collectors, including Bob Bahre, Dewey Bloomquist, Nick Jenin and Gene Zimmerman. In its new home, No. 1049 promptly won rave reviews at several car shows in and around London in 2008.

(Post credit; Kit Fox, TACA message board and www.TuckerTorpedo49.com; photo credit: TACA website)

Incredible Story of Tucker No. 1008 in Hemmings Blog

2011-12-01T09:50:00.001-08:00

The incredible story of Tucker No. 1008 is posted in today's Hemmings Blog. Check it out!

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Eric Breslow; photo credit: Hemmings Blog)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-12-01T06:07:00.000-08:00

1946 - The January 1946 issue of PIC Magazine featured a story by Charles T. Pearson, a freelance automotive reporter, about the revolutionary “Tucker Torpedo” automobile on the drawing board. But it was the December 1946 “Tucker Torpedo” story in Science Illustrated that gave many their first look at Preston Tucker’s dream car and a real sense he was serious. A photo showed the George Lawson designed “Torpedo On Wheels” that looked “more like a Buck Rogers Special” than any auto of its day.

1946 - Just two days after Christmas 1946, and within days of seeing the story, automotive designer Alex Tremulis called Preston Tucker and asked for an interview. They met the very next day for a 15-minute meeting that turns into three hours, and ends with Alex landing a styling consultant contract for his employer, the design firm of Tammen and Denison of Chicago. On New Year’s Eve, just four days later, Alex had already finished several drawings and presents them to Preston Tucker. This meeting lost Tammen and Denison the Tucker contract as Preston hired Alex outright and appointed him Tucker Corporation Styling Chief.

1947 - By December 1947, all in-house work on the “Tucker 589” engine was canceled as the results proved to be “completely unsatisfactory” and the company began exploring other engine options with outside firms. Contracts were signed with Hoffman Motor Development Company of Detroit, MI, who would build six engines, as well as with Ex-Cello-O Fuel Injection Systems, who proposed adapting a Jacobs Aircraft Engine for use in the Tucker. The Ypsilanti Machine and Tool Company, owned by Preston’s mother, pursued yet another engine. The Ypsi group worked on converting four Aircooled Motors-built “Franklin 335” helicopter engines purchased from Bell Aircraft from air-cooled to water-cooled. In the end, these projects paid off well and they found the engine to power the new Tucker ’48 – the converted Franklin 335.

1956 - The month of December also marks great sadness in Tucker history and we mourn the loss of four true pioneers. On the day after Christmas 1956, Preston Tucker passed away of lung cancer. Stylist Alex Tremulis passed away in December 1991, followed by the death of Tucker interior stylist Audrey Moore-Hodges five years later in December 1996, and Tucker design team member Philip Egan in December 2008.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Margie Petersen, 1935 - 2011

2011-11-29T08:22:00.001-08:00

Robert & Margie Petersen

The Los Angeles Times reports the passing of Margie Petersen on November 25th in Beverly Hills, CA. Margie and her husband, Robert, were Los Angeles-area philanthropists whose many cultural contributions included the creation of the Petersen Automotive Museum, which is the home of Tucker No. 1030. Robert Petersen passed away in 2007 at the age of 80.

(Post credit: Kit Fox and LATimes.com; photo credit: LATimes.com)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 10

2011-11-25T13:01:00.000-08:00

The latest issue of our award-winning print newsletter, Tucker Topics, should be arriving in your mailbox. It features the latest installment of Natalie Kochmar's The eXperimental Garage, as well as a summary of highlights from the 2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

TACA wishes you and your family

a happy Thanksgiving!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Microsoft clip art)

TACA Honors Veterans' Day

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

Remember and honor the

brave men and women who have

served our country in times of

war and peace.

(Post credit: Kit Fox, photo credit: bing.com)

Out & About with Tucker No. 1017

2011-11-10T15:24:00.001-08:00

Tucker No. 1017 at the Winter Park Concours d'Elegance

Eileen Carpenter reports that Tucker No. 1017 had the honor of appearing in Trophy Row at the Concours d'Elegance in Winter Park, FL this past Sunday, November 6th. This is the second recent appearance of No. 1017 in the Sunshine State.

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Eileen Carpenter; photo credit: Eileen Carpenter)

TACA Reminds You to Vote

2011-11-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

If it's Election Day where you live,

remember to vote!

Don't Forget to Fall Back!

2011-11-06T02:00:00.000-08:00

...and don't forget to the change the batteries

in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: bing.com)

New Boyd's Crystal Art Glass Tucker Now Available

2011-11-02T15:41:00.000-07:00

Boyd's Crystal Art Glass Tucker
in Cobaline Green

Boyd's Crystal Art Glass of Cambridge, OH has recently released a new Tucker figurine in a color they call Cobaline Green. Click here to order yours today!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Boyd's Crystal Art Glass website)

A Tucker Abroad: No. 1045

2011-11-02T07:09:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1045

Tucker No. 1045 has emigrated only recently from the shores of its American homeland to its new home "down under" near Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Until 2009, No. 1045's most-recent owner was John M. O'Quinn of Houston, TX, and it was the crown jewel of his private museum, O'Quinn's Classy Classic Cars. Mr. O'Quinn was reportedly a very flamboyant trial attorney who represented plaintiffs in Texas lawsuits against tobacco companies and other high-profile cases. Tragically, Mr. O'Quinn perished in an automobile accident in October 2009. Previously, No. 1045 had been owned by Nick Jenin and a succession of other owners.

After Mr. O'Quinn's passing, No. 1045 eventually came into the possession of RM Auctions, which offered it at the annual Monterey, CA auction in August 2010. The car earned a record auction price of $1,127,500 (including fees). The lucky winner promptly shipped No. 1045 (now affectionately know as "Tuckeroo") to his home near Melbourne. Shortly after arriving, however, Tuckeroo made a huge splash in its inaugural appearance at the Motoclassica car show in October 2010. It has subsequently been featured in a video hosted and produced by TACA member Brendan Edgerton and has appeared at other car shows around Australia.

(Post credit: Kit Fox, TACA message board, Brendan Edgerton; photo credit: TACA website)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-11-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

1946 - It was in November of 1946 that articles detailing concepts for the “Car of the Future” appeared on newsstands in both Mechanics Illustrated and Popular Mechanics magazines. A year later in November 1947, the Tucker Corporation was well on its way to bringing the Tucker ’48 to the car-hungry public.

1947 - The company launched a national advertising campaign featuring full-page (or two-page) ads in Colliers, Saturday Evening Post, Life, The New Yorker and Time magazines. Its ten-year lease of the former Dodge Chicago plant formerly began and the company was awarded six different patents. The day after the failed testing of the 589 engine, Tucker Corporation contracted with Hoffman Motor Development Company of Detroit, MI to build six engines. In the arrangement, Borg Warner Corporation would also develop three experimental transmissions for Tucker. The development of each would end just four months later when the Aircooled Motors 335 engine was selected to power the Tucker ’48.

1948 - By November of 1948, Tucker Corporation sees the value of its stock fall to an all-time low and suspends plant operations. In less than a year, criminal indictments are issued against Preston Tucker and seven associates, and a trial begins in October of 1949. By the following January all defendants in the case are found NOT GUILTY.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Happy Hallowe'en!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

TACA wishes you and your family a safe and happy Hallowe'en!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Microsoft clip art)

Tucker No. 1017 Wins "Best of Show"

2011-10-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1017 at the
Lake Mirror Concours d'Elegance

Eileen and Keith Carpenter, the proud owners of Tucker No. 1017, report that they won "Best of Show" at the Lake Mirror Concours d'Elegance in Lakeland, FL this past Saturday, October 15th. Congratulations, Eileen and Keith, and safe travels back home to Colorado with No. 1017!

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Eileen Carpenter; photo credit: Eileen Carpenter)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 9

2011-10-18T17:40:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of our printed newsletter, Tucker Topics, features rare advertising artwork, photos and copy from the archives of the TACA Historical Collection and Library. Check your mailbox!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

It's Columbus Day!

2011-10-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

If you have the day off, enjoy it!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

A Tucker Abroad: No. 1035

2011-10-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1035

Tucker No. 1035 has had a long, strange and sad history--but one which may ultimately have a happy ending. It started in December 1948 when No. 1035 was shipped to Sao Paulo, Brazil, to the first Tucker dealer in Brazil, Jaime Gantmanis.

Over the years, the car changed hands several times, eventually coming into the possession of Roberto Eduardo Lee in 1962. The car had also been extensively modified, including the interior, chassis and drivetrain. Tragically, Roberto Lee died in 1975, beginning a legal battle among his heirs that lasted more than 35 years. No. 1035 and the rest of Lee's collection sat deteriorating and vandalized while the legal battles dragged on. By early 2011, however, the city of Cacapava, Brazil (which owns the building that housed Lee's Museu Paulista do Antiguidades Mecanicas) took possession of No. 1035 and the rest of Lee's collection and relocated them all to a more secure location. We understand that the city and Brazilian Tucker fans would like to try to restore No. 1035, and we wish them well in that effort.

(Post credit: Jay Follis, Kit Fox and TACA message board; photo credit: TACA website)

Tucker No. 1045 at the Australian National Show & Shine

2011-10-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Tony Decinque informs us that Tucker No. 1045 was on display at the Australian National Show & Shine in Euroa, Victoria, Australia over the past weekend. See more photos from the event on the TACA Facebook page.

(Post and photo credits: Tony Decinque)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-10-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

1946 - In October of 1946, the National Housing Agency (NHA) awarded the Lustron Corporation, an upstart company ready to build pre-fab steel housing, a lease on the gigantic Dodge Chicago plant. However, five weeks earlier, the War Assets Administration had signed an agreement with Preston Tucker awarding him a lease on the same factory. In response to protest by Tucker, the NHA's Office of Housing Expediter issued a press release stating that "Tucker had refused to allow Lustron joint occupancy and therefore the plant was awarded to Lustron." The press release also stated that "other options" had been explored, such as either company using other war surplus plants in Chicago or even the Curtiss-Wright Plant in Lockland, OH.

1947 - Nearly a year later, in September of 1947, the court ruled on behalf of the Tucker Corporation, stating that the agreement between Tucker Corporation and the War Assets Administration was, in fact, valid. In October of 1947, Tucker Corporation placed a winning bid with the War Assets Administration for the Granite City blast furnace at $2,751,000, only to have it awarded to lower bidder.

1948 - The nearly three-week-long testing of seven Tucker cars on the famed "Brickyard" of the Indy 500 Speedway was completed in October of 1948. One car, serial #1027, rolled over several times during a high speed crash on the track. The car appeared to be heavily damaged, yet the safety windshield had popped out just as planned and the driver, unhurt during the incident, was able to drive the car away.

1949 - October of 1949 proved to be one of the more difficult months for Preston Tucker and Tucker Corporation, as the fraud trial against Tucker and others began in Federal Court. By January of 1950, Preston Tucker and all the other defendants were acquitted on all charges, which included mail fraud, conspiracy, and several Securities and Exchange Commission infractions.

1950 - The final public auction of Tucker Corporation assets took place in October of 1950 at the Chicago Tucker plant grounds. Just days before, during the legal deposition of a news reporter, it was indicated that the SEC had illegally leaked information about Tucker investigation to the press prior to the SEC taking any action. The damage, however, had already been done, and the twenty-two Tucker cars on site, thirteen without transmissions, and the thirty-two Franklin Aircooled engines, were sold at auction. One car located in New York, a test chassis, several parts and various all non-Tucker company vehicles were sold by Samuel Winternitz & Company at a reported a $47,990.00--just pennies on the dollar.

1993 - It wasn't until October of 1993, following the very successful lobbying effort by the Tucker Automobile Club of America, that the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, considered the "nation's museum," added a Tucker to its collection. The United States Marshals' Service donated Tucker #1039, which car had been seized in 1992 by the Drug Enforcement Administration following a narcotics investigation, to the museum rather than sending it to the auction block.

2000 - The 1988 Francis Ford Coppola/George Lucas film, Tucker: The Man and His Dream, was released on DVD in October of 2000. This much-anticipated version featured an original 1948 company promotional film and included several bonus features, such as interviews and a "making of" the film featurette.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Interesting Tucker Ephemera

2011-09-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

TACA Facebook fan Charlie Lecach has recently shared a couple of rare and unusual items of Tucker ephemera that we thought we'd pass along to blog readers. Enjoy!

The "cut-away" illustration on the cover of this

French magazine from 1948 depicts the 589 engine

and the flat-bottomed steering wheel.

This reader contest was published in the
May 1954 issue of Rod & Custom magazine

(Post and image credits: Charlie Lecach)

Tucker No. 1043 to be Auctioned at Scottsdale, AZ in January 2012

2011-09-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1043

We understand that Tucker No. 1043--which appeared (briefly) in an episode of the short-lived NBC game show "It's Worth What?" over the summer--is expected to cross the Barrett Jackson auction block in Scottsdale, AZ next January. We'll keep you posted as we hear more details.

(Post credit: TACA message board; photo credit: TACA website)

2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet This Weekend

2011-09-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

This year's Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet starts at about 2:00 PM at the Sleep Inn in Elkhart, IN this Friday, September 30th. Unfortunately, your faithful blogger can't make it to the "Hoosier State" this year to report on the festivities. Therefore, Mini-Meet attendees are encouraged to act as "special correspondents," and to send news and photos of this weekend's goings-on to tribune@tuckerclub.org. You can also post photos and updates directly to our Facebook page. Your Mini-Meet hosts, Bev & Earl Bowe, can't wait to see you. Have fun!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

It's Fall!

2011-09-23T02:04:00.000-07:00

The warm, golden tones of this trio of Tucker '48s

reminds us that Fall is here.

Tucker No. 1002

Tucker No. 1011

Tucker No. 1046

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credits: TACA website)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 8

2011-09-22T06:39:00.000-07:00

Re-live the excitement of TACA Convention 2011 in the latest edition of Tucker Topics. This edition also includes. a brief history of the legendary racing partnership, Miller-Tucker, Inc.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Happy Birthday, Preston Tucker!

2011-09-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Preston Tucker
(1903-1956)

Preston Thomas Tucker was born 108 years ago today--and the automotive world has never been the same since! Read more about Preston Tucker on the TACA website and on Wikipedia.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Wikipedia)

TACA Honors Patriot Day

2011-09-11T05:46:00.000-07:00

TACA takes a moment

to honor the memory of

nearly 3,000 souls

who lost their lives

10 years ago today.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: http://groundzero.nyc.ny.us/photos/before/before002.html)

A Tucker Abroad: No. 1020

2011-09-07T08:06:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1020

Tucker No. 1020 is the second Tucker '48 located in Japan, but not a lot is known about it. We understand that it's owned by Shoujirou Hani, president of the Hani Corporation in Kagoshima, Japan. The photo to the right was taken before No. 1020 was purportedly re-painted in its original maroon color in 2004. We understand that Mr. Hani also owns one of the Ida Automotive Tucker replicas. A soft-cover book of photos of the Hani Classic Car Collection bears a photo of the Tucker replica on its cover.

(Source: TACA message board)

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

TACA Salutes Labor Day

2011-09-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

(Image credit: http://burninlovebbq.wordpress.com/2010/09/04/history-of-labor-day/)

Last Week to See Tucker No. 1007 On Display in Portland, OR

2011-09-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1007

As we reported earlier this summer, Tucker No. 1007 has been on loan to the Portland Art Museum in Portland, OR as a part of the exhibition, The Allure of the Automobile. The exhibition closes on Sunday, September 11th, after which No. 1007 will be returning to its home at the LeMay Museum in Tacoma, WA.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

Only 1 Week Left for Special Hotel Room Rate for the 2011 Mini-Meet

2011-09-02T08:03:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet starts on Friday, September 30th. However, the special $62.99/night room rate at the Sleep Inn in Elkhart, IN is only guaranteed until Friday, September 9th. Call the hotel directly at (574) 206-8290 to make your reservation today!

(Post credit: Bev & Earl Bowe and Kit Fox)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-09-01T05:42:00.000-07:00

1903 - On September 21, 1903, Preston Thomas Tucker is born on a peppermint farm near Capac, MI.

1947 - It was September 12, 1947 that the court ruled on behalf of the Tucker Corporation. The agreement Tucker was able to reach with the War Assets Administration requiring an initial payment of $15,000,000 to lease the Chicago plant was ruled valid. Tucker gained formal control of the former Dodge B-29 engine plant and showed $15,007,000 had been raised by the sale of stock, yet both came six months behind schedule due to court delays.

September 1947 also saw the resignation of Tucker Corporation Board Chairman, Harry Toulmin, who cited “Preston Tucker’s hard sell tactics” as his reason for leaving.

While a lawsuit by Tucker stockholders asked the court for receivership of the corporation, in September 1947 six Tucker cars began testing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway—the famous “Brickyard,” best known for the Indy 500 race.

1949 - The September 1949 issue of Reader's Digest carried a reprint of the June Collier’s article that had attacked Tucker and called the car a fraud. Bad press seemed to snowball and, on the 22nd, a reorganization hearing was held on Tucker Corporation. One year later, Preston Tucker and Corporation, now acquitted of all charges, sued the publishers of both Collier’s and Reader’s Digest for damages totaling $19 million.

2000 - The Tucker Historical Collection and Library (HCL), the Tucker Automobile Club of America’s archive collection and exhibit, was established on the grounds of the Gilmore Car Museum located in Hickory Corners, MI. The display features a recreated 1948 office, reminiscent of what one may have found at Tucker Corporation, along with Tucker #1047. On September 30, 2000, Mary Lee Tucker-McAndrew proudly dedicated this new venture in the memory of her parents—Preston and Vera Tucker.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

One Month Until the 2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet!

2011-08-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1012

This year's Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet starts a month from today in Elkhart, IN. Highlights are expected to include a visit to Tucker No. 1012 in LaPorte, IN. Click here for details. Be sure to make your hotel and travel plans soon!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

New Location for Stahl's Automotive Foundation

2011-08-15T11:02:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1015

According to its website, Stahl's Automotive Foundation has relocated from St. Clair Shores, MI to nearby Chesterfield, MI. The new address is 56516 N. Bay Dr., Chesterfield, MI 48051. Stahl's is the proud owner of recently-restored Tucker No. 1015, which won "Best in Class" at the 2011 Concours d'Elegance of America.

(Post credit: Stahl's Automotive Foundation website and Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

2011 TACA Business Meeting and Board of Directors Meeting

2011-08-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

The annual TACA Business Meeting and Board of Directors Meeting will be held on the evening of Saturday, October 1st during the 2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet in Elkhart, IN (these meetings were not held at this year's convention due to the lack of a quorum). The exact time and location of the meetings will be announced in the future.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 7

2011-08-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of our monthly printed newsletter, Tucker Topics, includes the story behind the recently-posted photos of a Tucker "stock car." There's also information about the upcoming Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet and a recent article about Tucker design chief Alex Tremulis in Hemmings Classic Car magazine.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker Memorabilia on an Upcoming Episode of A&E's "Storage Wars"

2011-08-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

We understand from TACA member (and owner of Tucker No. 1031) Eric Breslow that he'll be appearing in an upcoming episode of A&E's "Storage Wars." Eric will be providing his assessment of the value of some Tucker memorabilia. The episode, filmed at the Breslow Collection with No. 1031 in the background, is slated to air in about 8 weeks; we'll post more information once we know the actual air date.

(Post credit: Eric Breslow and Kit Fox)

Tucker No. 1015 Wins at the Concours d'Elegance of America

2011-08-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1015 at the 2011 Concours d'Elegance of America

The culmination of the extensive and painstaking restoration of Tucker No. 1015 was its "Best in Class" win at last weekend's Concours d'Elegance of America in Plymouth, MI. Stahl's Automotive Foundation of St. Clair Shores, MI is the owner of No. 1015; it was restored by Classic & Exotic Service, Inc. of Troy, MI. Click here for a Detroit News article about the Concours.

(Post credit: TACA message board; photo credit: The Detroit News website)

A Tucker Abroad: No. 1004

2011-08-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1004

We begin our new feature series, Tuckers Abroad, with the story of Tucker No. 1004. Readers of this blog may recall that Tucker Road Trip, Day 3 featured a visit to No. 1004 at the Toyota Automobile Museum in Japan. This is the only expatriate Tucker '48 that is currently on public display.

Tucker No. 1004 is among the cars that was featured in 1988's Tucker: The Man and His Dream. We believe that, after leaving the ownership of Ray Burton and passing through the hands of Happy Auto Access of Las Vegas, NV, it ended up at the Toyota Museum. For some reason, No. 1004 has not previously appeared on any list of vehicles in the museum's possession, but does now show up on that list and visitors have reported that the car is there. We're also happy to report that No. 1004 was apparently not damaged during this year's catastrophic Japanese earthquake.

(Sources:.TACA message board and Toyota Automobile Museum website)

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

Joe Merola's No. 12 Tucker Stock Car

2011-08-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning out my Tucker Tribune in-box and came across these photos of Joe Merola's No. 12 Tucker "stock car," recently submitted by blog viewer Tom Merola. Feel free to comment on this post if you know anything about these photos. Thanks, Tom, for allowing me to share these!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credits: Tom Merola)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-08-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

1947 - After working on the 589 engine for several months, an August 1947 engineering report deemed the cost for the starter would be prohibitive. The report also pointed out that the piston load was three times greater than that of any competitor’s engine.

1948 - After a rather difficult July, August 1948 seemed to hold some promise for Tucker Corporation and the fulfillment of Preston Tucker’s dream. Renowned automotive journalist and regular contributor to Mechanix Illustrated, Tom McCahill test-drives a Tucker ‘48 and writes a glowing review on the auto for the magazine. Work continues swiftly on the less expensive helicopter engine, the 335, with 91 units being delivered by Tucker Corporation’s newly acquired Aircooled Motors of Syracuse, NY.

The War Assets Administration awards a Cleveland blast furnace/steel plant to automaker Kaiser-Frazer even though Tucker Corporation’s sealed bid proves to be the highest. The second Securities and Exchange Commission investigation of Tucker Corporation officially ends.

1988 - The Tucker auto again captivates America’s interest in August of 1988 when the movie Tucker: The Man and His Dream is released nationwide. The Francis Ford Coppola (“The Godfather”) and George Lucas (“Star Wars”) production stars Jeff Bridges and his father, Lloyd.

The 1960 Charles Pearson book The Indomitable Tin Goose: The True Story of The Tucker Auto is re-released in paperback following the release of the movie.

1995 - August of 1995 finds the Tucker Automobile Club of America on the internet with a website created by member Chris Miller.

1996 - Larry Clark, automotive historian and TACA member, nominates Preston Tucker for induction in the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, MI.

2010 - The Tucker Automobile Club of America expands its internet presence even further with the introduction of a blog (Tucker Tribune) and a Facebook page.

Tucker No. 1045 sells for a record $1,127,500 at auction in Monterey, CA on August 14, 2010, and is relocated to Melbourne, Australia, making it the fifth Tucker to be located overseas.

(Post credits: Jay Follis and Kit Fox)

"Tucker Tribune" Blog Celebrates its First Anniversary

2011-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

With this, our 150th post, the Tucker Tribune celebrates its first year in cyberspace today. Thanks for your interest and support in "keeping the dream alive!"

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet

2011-07-30T08:21:00.000-07:00

Sleep Inn, Elkhart, IN

Hosts Bev & Earl Bowe have announced details of this year's Mini-Meet, to be held in Elkhart, IN from September 30th to October 2nd. The host hotel will be the Sleep Inn, which is located at 220 Caravan Dr., Elkhart, IN 46514. The special $62.99/night group rate for the Tucker Automobile Club of America is available until September 9th by calling the hotel directly at (574) 206-8290. Bev & Earl will be greeting attendees at the host hotel beginning at about 2:00 PM on Friday, September 30th. Friday night will be set aside for meeting, "talking Tucker" and visiting a local restaurant for dinner.

Studebaker Museum, South Bend, IN

After breakfast on Saturday, October 1st, the plan is to visit the Studebaker Museum in nearby South Bend, IN. For those who can extend their stay over Saturday night, the next stop will be the LaPorte County Historical Society & Museum in LaPorte, IN to see Tucker No. 1012 before returning to the host hotel later that afternoon. The Mini-Meet will conclude with breakfast on Sunday, October 2nd.

Tucker No. 1012

Bev & Earl are hoping to make this one of the largest Mini-Meets we've ever had (isn't that sort of an oxymoron?), and are encouraging everyone to try to attend. You can reach them at (574) 264-5020 (home) or (574) 536-7407 (mobile) if you have questions.

UPDATE 8/13/11 8:30 PM: The annual TACA Business Meeting and Board of Director's Meeting will be held during the Mini-Meet on Saturday evening, October 1st.

(Post credits: Bev & Earl Bowe and Kit Fox; photo credits: Sleep Inn, Studebaker Museum and TACA websites)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 6

2011-07-28T15:48:00.000-07:00

The latest (slightly delayed) issue of Tucker Topics includes remembrances of long-time TACA member and former Tucker Corporation employee Bill Whipple, who passed away in May. There's also another installment of Natalie Kochmar's The eXperimental Garage with an interview of author Arvid Linde, whose latest book is Preston Tucker & Others: Tales of Brilliant Automotive Innovators and Innovations.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Clip from July 26th Episode of NBC's "It's Worth What?"

2011-07-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

(Video credit: NBC.com)

Tucker No. 1043 to Appear on NBC's "It's Worth What?"

2011-07-26T17:39:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1043

We understand that Tucker No. 1043 will be appearing in tonight's episode of NBC's latest primetime game show, "It's Worth What?". Click here for a video preview in which No. 1043 (briefly) appears.

(Post credit: Joe Kahn; photo credit: TACA website)

An Interview with Francis Ford Coppola

2011-07-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

We thought we'd share with you this 2003 radio interview with Francis Ford Coppola from KCRW's The Treatment. Coppola candidly discusses his film career with host Elvis Mitchell, including 1988's Tucker: The Man and His Dream. Did you know that Coppola originally planned for Tucker to be a musical, with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green? Give it a listen!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; audio credit: KCRW)

Tucker No. 1033 on Display in Paris, ME This Weekend

2011-07-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1033

Tucker No. 1033 will be a part of a rare public display of the automobile collection of TACA members Robert & Sandra Bahre this Saturday, July 16th on the Village Green at historic Paris Hill in Paris, ME from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $10 for adults and $2 for children up to 12 years of age. Paris, ME is located roughly 1-1/4 hours north of Portland, ME via I-95 and ME-26.

The display of the Bahre Collection is a part of the 33rd annual Founder's Day, with proceeds benefiting the Hamlin Memorial Library and Museum. The library is named for Hannibal H. Hamlin, who served as Vice President during Abraham Lincoln's first presidential term (1861-1865).

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Hamlin Library website; photo credit: TACA website)

2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet Preview

2011-07-11T20:47:00.000-07:00

Studebaker Avanti

Tucker No. 1012

We understand that plans are underway for this year's Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet to convene in Elkhart, IN, from September 30th through October 2nd. The highlights are expected to be visits to the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, IN, as well as to see Tucker No. 1012 at the La Porte County Historical Society Museum in nearby La Porte, IN. Keep checking back to this blog for more details in the coming weeks and months.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Studebaker National Museum and TACA websites)

Video Highlights of Tucker Day 2011

2011-07-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1003 on the move

Tucker No. 1003 drive-by

Tucker No. 1031 comes out to play

Tucker "drag race"

We're pleased to share these video clips of Tucker Day 2011 at the Breslow Collection in Northridge, CA.

(Post and video credits: Kit Fox)

Tuckers Abroad

2011-07-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

With apologies to Mark Twain's Innocents Abroad, we'd like to undertake a brief survey of the Tucker '48s known to have left the United States for foreign shores. Beginning next month, we'll begin a new feature series in this blog: Tuckers Abroad. We hope to share with you some of the history of these expatriate Tuckers, including how they came to travel overseas (and how they're faring today). See you next month!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Microsoft clip art)

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

TACA celebrates 235 years of American freedom!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Microsoft clip art)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-07-01T06:06:00.000-07:00

1946 - It was July of 1946 that Preston Tucker signed a lease agreement with the War Assets Administration (WAA) for the wartime Dodge B-29 engine plant on South Cicero Avenue in Chicago. Known as the largest and best equipped manufacturing plant in the world, it covered 484 acres with 22 buildings, the largest of those covering 84 acres by itself. The WAA agreement stated that Tucker Corporation would take possession if Tucker could raise $15 million by April 1947. An article in the July 25, 1946 issue of Business Week announced that Tucker moved in and took possession of Dodge Chicago plant.

1947 - July 1947 was a busy time for Tucker and those around him. Philip S. Egan, a member of the design team at J. Gordon Lippincott & Company, was hired as a full-time staff member of the Tucker Corporation working under Chief Stylist Alex Tremulis (Phil’s book, Tucker: Design & Destiny, on his Tucker experience, is a MUST read and is available at http://www.tuckerclub.org/).

The deadline for the $500,000 payment by Tucker Corporation for its first year lease on the Chicago plant also came due during this month.

Max Garavito, president of the Tucker Export Corporation, met with officials of Aircooled Motors on the prospect of using the Franklin 335 helicopter engine in the Tucker if it could be converted to water-cooled.

Preston Tucker was still confident that company Vice-President and Chief Engineer (fuel injection specialist) Ben Parsons’ engine design would power his “Car of The Future.” Parsons, however, released a statement on the 28th of July saying that there would be “no fuel injection until the 589 engine is satisfactory.”

1948 - In mid-June 1948, the Securities and Exchange Commission issued subpoenas for all Tucker Corporation operating papers from as early as 1946, and effectively made it impossible for work to continue. Nearly 2,200 factory workers were laid off and the plant was closed. However, in July 1948, Preston Tucker rehired 300 workers and reopened the plant with a simple goal--complete assembly on as many Tucker automobiles as possible.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Tucker No. 1007 on Loan to the Portland Art Museum

2011-06-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1007

Tucker No. 1007--normally on display at the LeMay Museum in Tacoma, WA--is on loan to the Portland Art Museum in Portland, OR through September 11th. The museum is hosting The Allure of the Automobile, a special exhibition that attendees at last year's TACA convention in Atlanta, GA saw at the High Museum.

Tucker No. 1034

Tucker No. 1007 is "filling in" for Tucker No. 1034 from the Cofer Collection of Tucker, GA, which appeared in the "original cast" of this exhibition in 2010. If you're in the Portland, OR area this summer, be sure to go see this beautiful exhibition!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credits: TACA website)

Thanks and So Long Until Next Year!

2011-06-26T07:40:00.000-07:00

We hope that all attendees at TACA Convention 2011, California Dreamin', had a wonderful time (and we hope that those of you following us through this blog had a few vicarious thrills, too). After breakfast this morning, we'll be heading our separate ways, but we'll have great memories to savor and share. Thanks for those memories (do I hear a song?) go to convention host Martyn Donaldson and to all the TACA Officers and Directors who assisted in convention planning. We'd also like to acknowledge:

Everyone who contributed items to the TACA Education Fund auction;
All of the Tucker owners who attended, including J.R. Roberts (No. 1003), Keith and Eileen Carpenter (No. 1017), Eric Breslow (No. 1031), Tony Decinque (No. 1045) and John Schuler (No. 1052);
The beautiful and generous venues who hosted us, including the Reagan Presidential Library, the Petersen Automotive Museum, the Nethercutt Museum & Collection, the Breslow Collection; and the Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags; and,
The members of the Tucker family, who shared their stories with us.

Keep watching this blog for news of the upcoming 2011 Midwest Tucker Mini-Meet in the fall, and for TACA Convention 2012 next year. We wish you all safe travels home!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker Family Shares Memories at TACA Banquet

2011-06-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

This year, we were especially honored to have many members of the extended Tucker family in attendance at our annual TACA banquet. They shared stories and home movies of Preston and Vera Tucker and their children, and spoke of the family legacy that Preston left behind. We were also excited to see original drawings prepared under Preston's direction for the vehicles that he had planned to build in Brazil, including the Carioca.

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

TACA Congratulates New Board Members

2011-06-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

The Tucker Automobile Club of America, Inc., is pleased to announce that Dr. Larry Clark and Michael Leasor were elected to 3-year terms on the Board of Directors in the recently-concluded election. Election results were formally announced at the annual TACA banquet this evening. Larry and Michael will each serve until 2014. We thank all of the candidates and everyone who cast a ballot for participating in this year's election.

(Post credit: TACA Officers and Board of Directors)

Tucker Day 2011

2011-06-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Tucker Day 2011 was a resounding success! After viewing our first Tucker of the convention (No. 1030) at the Petersen Automotive Museum yesterday, we saw three (and a half) more Tucker '48s today!

First up was Tucker No. 1040, which we saw at the Nethercutt Museum in nearby Sylmar, CA. Museum staff "dropped the ropes" so we could get a rare, up-close view of No. 1040. We understand that the Nethercutt is planning a complete restoration of the car in the near future. After an hour or so on our own at the museum, we went across the street for a guided tour of the spectacular Nethercutt Collection. In addition to more beautiful cars displayed in the ornate Grand Salon, the collection also includes an amazing display of "functional art," including music boxes, antique furniture and an immense Wurlitzer pipe organ. Even more amazing, the Nethercutt--owned by the heirs to the Merle Norman cosmetics empire--is open free to the public!

Tucker Day 2011 then continued to the Breslow Collection in Northridge, CA. There we saw two complete Tucker '48s: No. 1003 and No. 1031. We also had John Schuler's "work-in-progress" Tucker No. 1052 on display. After a tasty BBQ lunch provided by Eric Breslow, he and J.R. Roberts (owner of No. 1003) treated us to a rare--and perhaps historic--"drag race" between No. 1003 and No. 1031 in the parking lot. In addition, several members of the Tucker family were in attendance and took rides in both cars, as did many TACA members. It was definitely an afternoon that none of us who were there will soon forget.

(PS - Check the TACA Facebook page for video of today's Tuckers in motion)

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

TACA Education Fund Auction Highlights

2011-06-24T20:45:00.000-07:00

The highlights of this year's fundraising auction for the TACA Education Fund included a chance to ride in and drive Tucker No. 1031 and a Tucker deck lid emblem. Over $800 was raised this evening, thanks to the generous donations of Deb Hull, Eric Breslow, Ed Way, Walter Ready, Michael Schutta and Archie Archambault.

We also understand that some excellent deals were negotiated at the Show, Sale & Swap before the auction. We hope that all buyers, sellers and bidders walked away pleased this evening. See you tomorrow morning for "Tucker Day 2011"!

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

Hooray for Hollywood!

2011-06-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

After a hearty (and free) breakfast at the hotel this morning, we headed out for a day of sightseeing for the first full day of TACA Convention 2011. Our first stop was the Reagan Presidential Library in nearby Simi Valley, CA, The self-guided tour included several vintage vehicles from the presidential fleet, including a Boeing 707 that served at Air Force One during the Reagan administration (1981-1989). Attendees were served a box lunch, which we enjoyed on our motorcoach en route to our next stop, the Petersen Automotive Museum.

The Petersen is located in the "Miracle Mile" district of Los Angeles, CA, occupying a renovated former department store and surrounded by several other museums, including the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Petersen staff had graciously moved Tucker No. 1030 to a more prominent (and photogenic) location for our visit. Tucker No. 1030 was one of the first acquisitions of the museum after its founding in 1994. We also toured the museum's latest featured exhibits: "Scooters: Size Doesn't Always Matter" and "Supercars: When Too Much is Almost Enough."

We then bade "good bye" to the Petersen and boarded our motorcoach for a whirlwind tour of the sights of nearby Hollywood, CA. Highlights included the HOLLYWOOD sign, Graumann's Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood & Highland entertainment complex, home of the annual Academy Awards ceremony and American Idol broadcasts. Returning to the hotel late this afternoon, we had a couple of hours for a nap, a dip in the pool and a quick meal before this evening's festivities.

(PS - See the TACA Facebook page for more convention photos)

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

Welcome to Valencia, CA

2011-06-23T16:02:00.000-07:00

Tucker fans have begun to arrive at the Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags for California Dreamin'. The weather is sunny and a balmy 92° (but with much lower humidity than last year in Atlanta!). It promises to be a beautiful, Southern California weekend for exploring the Los Angeles area, re-connecting with old friends and generally "talking Tucker."

After checking in (and checking out who else is here), attendees will be on their own for dinner tonight. However, we'll be on the road early tomorrow for a Hollywood sightseeing tour, with stops scheduled along the way at the Petersen Automotive Museum (home of Tucker No. 1030) and the Reagan Presidential Library. Get a good night's sleep!

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

It's Summer!

2011-06-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Microsoft clip art)

Join Us for TACA Convention 2011 This Week!

2011-06-19T15:41:00.000-07:00

Even if you can't make it to Los Angeles later this week for California Dreamin', you can follow the exciting goings-on on our blog and Facebook page. Check in with your faithful blogger beginning this Thursday, June 23rd!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Microsoft clip art)

Tucker Road Trip Epilogue

2011-06-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks for joining us on our 10-month virtual tour of Tuckers on public display. We hope that this series inspires you to visit and support the museums and other venues that display Tuckers. If you're not already a member of the Tucker Automobile Club of America, Inc., why not join us by clicking here? Also, if you have any comments, suggestions, updates or corrections to report about this series, please contact us at Tribune@TuckerClub.org. Thanks!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker No. 1016 Temporarily Removed from Display

2011-06-14T11:51:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1016

We understand from a recent post on the TACA website message board that Tucker No. 1016 has been temporarily removed from display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, MI. It is expected to return some time in 2012, according to museum staff. We'll keep you posted about the fate of No. 1016 in the future.

(Post credit: TACA message board; photo credit: TACA website)

TACA Salutes Flag Day

2011-06-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Long May It Wave!

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Microsoft clip art)

Two Weeks Until TACA Convention 2011!

2011-06-09T06:18:00.000-07:00

Tucker '48 enthusiasts will be convening 2 weeks from today in Valencia, CA for California Dreamin'. We hope to see you there!

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Tucker Road Trip, Day 20

2011-06-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1050

The final stop on the Tucker Road Trip is deep in the heart of Texas--San Marcos, TX, to be exact. Tucker No. 1050 is on display there at Dick's Classic Garage, which is presented by the Central Texas Museum of Automotive History.

Dick Burdick is the namesake of Dick's Classic Garage. He is the founder, past Chairman of the Board and past Chief Executive Officer of Thermon Industries, Inc. He is also deeply involved in Boy Scouts of America and local civic organizations in Central Texas.

Dick's Classic Garage is located at 120 Stagecoach Trl., San Marcos, TX 78666, just off I-35 between Austin and San Antonio. The museum is closed on Tuesdays. Visit Dick's Classic Garage website for more information.

(Sources: http://www.tuckerclub.org/, http://www.dicksclassicgarage.com/)

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credits: TACA website)

Don't Miss Your Chance to Get Behind the Wheel!

2011-06-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1031 ("Vera")

The highlight of this year's TACA Education Fund auction at the annual TACA convention is expected to be a chance to ride in and drive Tucker No. 1031 ("Vera"). Owner Eric Breslow has agreed to let the highest bidder (and a companion) come over to the Breslow Collection on a pre-arranged weekend day to be driven in No. 1031. Then, as if that wasn't exciting enough, you'll have the chance to pilot "Vera" around the complex surrounding the facility yourself!

(Post credit: Eric Breslow and Kit Fox; photo credit: Eric Breslow)

Auction Items Wanted

2011-06-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

Every year during the convention, TACA holds an auction to raise money for its Education Fund. This year's auction is scheduled for the evening of Friday, June 24th at our host hotel, the Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags. If you would like to make a donation of an auction item, please contact convention host Martyn Donaldson. Items can be anything Tucker- or auto-related, such as collectibles, vintage magazines, parts, historical documents or accessories. There's also a show-and-swap sale that same night (contact Martyn to arrange for table space).

(Post credit: Eric Breslow and Kit Fox)

Exercise Your Right to Vote

2011-06-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of Tucker Topics included a ballot for two, 3-year seats on the TACA Board of Directors. Four TACA members have expressed interest in serving on the Board, including (listed in alphabetical order by last name):

Eric Breslow
Larry Clark
Michael Leasor
Michael Schutta

TACA members: please be sure to review your ballot for the candidates' biographical information; vote for no more than 2 candidates; and return your ballots to TACA by mail. Valid ballots must be received by TACA no later than June 21, 2011. Election results will be announced at the TACA convention and on this blog.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; image credit: Microsoft clip art)

This Month in Tucker History

2011-06-01T06:19:00.000-07:00

1947 - The month of June 1947 saw work completed on the Tucker prototype-the "Tin Goose"-and its unveiling to the world at the Chicago plant. The dream of owning the "First Completely New Car in Fifty Years" was enthusiastically embraced throughout the nation.

1948 - June of 1948 is seen as a busy time in Tucker history. While the first production design transmissions based on the Cord model are delivered in June of 1948, things seem to be taking a turn for the worse. James D. Coolidge, council for the Tucker Corporation, receives a summons to appear at the Chicago offices of the Securities and Exchange Commission and is informed that the "company is under investigation." Three days later, well-known radio personality Drew Pearson leaks SEC details of the investigation on his radio program. Tucker becomes the buzz at office water-coolers throughout the nation as the details of this "secret and confidential" SEC report led to wild gossip, conjecture and hearsay.

By June 14th, the SEC subpoenas all Tucker corporate operating papers from as early as 1946 and effectively makes it impossible for work to continue. Preston Tucker lays off nearly 2,200 factory workers and keeps only a skeleton crew on. That crew begins work on the less expensive 335 engine, while Preston publishes an open letter to the auto industry that appears in several national papers.

1949 - June of 1949 doesn't fair much better for Tucker Corporation as Collier's magazine publishes an article attacking Tucker.

1974 - While it can certainly be argued that the SEC and others helped put Tucker Corporation out of business, it needs to be noted that dealerships closed as well. It wasn't until June of 1974, some 25 years later, that former Tucker dealers received settlement checks through the United States District Court for the investments they made in 1947.

(Post credit: Jay Follis)

Deadline for Reduced Convention Registration Fee is June 6th

2011-05-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

Remember, the $190 registration fee for TACA Convention 2011, California Dreamin', increases to $215 after June 6th. Be sure to get your registration form and check in the mail today, and save $25. You can download and print a registration form by clicking here.

You're also encouraged to make your reservations at the Hilton Garden Inn Valencia Six Flags (661-254-8800) by June 6th as well to get the special convention rate of $114/night (mention group/convention code "TUCK").

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

TACA Honors Memorial Day

2011-05-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

TACA honors the memory of the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of American freedom and liberty.

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: Microsoft clip art)

Tucker Topics, Volume 39, No. 5

2011-05-28T13:50:00.000-07:00

The May 2011 issue of Tucker Topics includes an article on an upcoming public showing of Tucker No. 1033 in Paris Hill, ME on July 16th. Also enclosed is a ballot for 2 seats on the TACA Board of Directors.

(Post credit: Kit Fox)

Swigart Museum Re-Opens This Weekend

2011-05-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's Memorial Day weekend, which means it's time for the Swigart Museum of Huntingdon, PA to re-open for its annual season. The museum is home to both the "Tin Goose" Tucker '48 prototype and Tucker No. 1013, and is open daily though October 31st.

(Post credit: Kit Fox, photo credit: Swigart Museum website)

One Month Until TACA Convention 2011!

2011-05-23T07:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick preview of 4 Tuckers we're expecting to see at next month's TACA convention in Valencia, CA. Click here for more information. You can also download and print a registration form from our website and Facebook page.

(Post and photo credits: Kit Fox)

TACA Salutes Armed Forces Day

2011-05-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Tucker Combat Car

Imagine how different things might have been if Preston Tucker's revolutionary Combat Car had been put into production! Luckily, the Tucker Turret did make it into service in PT boats, landing craft, B-17s and B-29s.

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Wikipedia; photo credit: Wikipedia)

Tucker Road Trip, Day 19

2011-05-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

Tucker No. 1048

The penultimate leg of the Tucker Road Trip takes us across (or around) Lake Michigan to the Wisconsin Automotive Museum in Hartford, WI. For the past few years, privately-owned Tucker No. 1048 has been on (periodic) display here. TACA members may recall seeing No. 1048 on display at the Volo Auto Museum during the 2005 convention in Chicago, IL.

Francis "Fuzzy" Fruzyna purchased No. 1048 in the mid-1990s after having won the Wisconsin state lottery. Fuzzy was a great guy and a huge supporter of TACA, but to say that he had eclectic taste was an understatement. There was much talk about the "accessorization" Fuzzy did to the car, but the bottom line was that it was his car and he had fun with it. Fuzzy passed away a few years ago and a friend of his took possession of the car. He has decided to keep the car "as-is" so as to pay respect to the car that Fuzzy loved so much.

The Wisconsin Automotive Museum is located at 147 N. Rural St., Hartford, WI 53027, just northwest of Milwaukee off US-41. It is open daily May through September, and Wednesdays through Sundays from October through April. Call the museum at (262) 673-7999 to see if No. 1048 is on display, and visit the museum's website for more information.

(Sources: http://www.tuckerclub.org/, http://www.wisconsinautomuseum.com/, TACA message board)

(Post credit: Kit Fox; photo credit: TACA website)

Question About Tucker Ashtrays

2011-05-17T09:52:00.000-07:00

We've had a question from a blog reader about the manufacturer of the promotional Tucker ashtrays (see a photo of a maroon example to the left). Does anyone know the name of the company that made them? If so, please contact us and we'll pass along the information.

UPDATE 5/19/11 10:31 AM: TACA Historian Martyn Donaldson offers the following results of his research into the issue of the Tucker ashtrays:

I have no solid evidence, but I believe they were produced by National Products, a division of Banthrico Industries, Chicago, Illinois. Banthrico spent much of the 1930s producing cast metal piggy-banks in the shapes of buildings or animals.

After World War II, Banthrico focused on the production of promotional model cars or "dealer promos" for the major auto companies. Most of the early models were made using the slush-mold method of casting (as is the case with the Tucker ashtrays), but some of their later offerings also doubled as coin-banks.

The earliest Tucker models, whether finished in gold plating or painted maroon, are easily distinguished by having no fender skirt outline cast into the rear fenders. This was a very short run before the mold was modified to have the outline cast in place, hence ashtrays with these early models mounted on them are very rare. Even with a higher selling price of $12.00 when new, the gold-plated ones easily outsold the maroon items, which sold for $10.00. This fact alone makes the maroon ones a little harder to come by today.

(Post credit: Kit Fox and Martyn Donaldson; photo credit: http://www.worthpoint.com)