There is a 1956 Chevy 2 door hard top 265 V/8 3 on the tree with an honest 80,000 miles that a little old lady still drives once a week to the local Albertsons grocery store. I have put a note on it several times and last year she needed some masonry repair that I did the job on. When I arrived to do the bid there sat the 56 and I was able to finally talk with her. It's not for sale and I know now she has my phone number and she knows I did a good job on the repair of her brick home. Hopefully one day I will get the phone call.
My dad had a brand new 57 ford convertible. Pretty much the same colors. Ordered it from the local rural ford dealer. Wentworth auto sales in guys mills pa. V8, 292 , I believe and a 3 on the tree. He loved that car . Had to give it up when he got layed off from the steel mill in Titusville. Back then it happened a lot. But raising a family came first. Not like today. Losing that car broke his heart,but it started another trend, he got a used pick up a dodge I believe, and he owned a truck up till the day he died in 2009. I carry on the Ford tradition in honor of my dad. I own 4 of them at the moment a newer f150, a 77 f100. A ford 500, and a mustang convertible. Miss you dad.
Reminds me of when Dad’s mother passed in 1993. In her barn was a 1963 Chevy Impala with a little over 5000 miles. She didn’t drive and my grandfather passed soon after buying it. It had been under a tarp. In great shape except for rotten tires. My Dad cleaned it up and drove it for years. He was so proud of it. My Dad loved cars. Great mechanic. I will always have that memory of him.
My great aunt had a 1950 Chevy. dark green with the infamous power glide. When she steered the car around the corner without power steering she stutter stepped her arms with one arm never crossing over the top of the other. Twenty seven thousand miles in maybe 1980 when my greedy uncle sold it to someone. He got all the personal property of the estate. Said it was his right that the eldest relative got it all. Of course his lawyer wrote the will.
@@-oiiio-3993 Yes that car is Ford Tough and Ford Quality. The Thunderbird 312 was awesome and refreshing. Isn't it a novel idea it was BUILT in *America* by American workers with American parts for Americans?
I miss the house more than the car. I love them both, but the memories of the time spent in the house, the different smells, the family gatherings melt my heart. Thanks for sharing!
I was just back at the house earlier this month. We are fixing it up to sell (new flooring, paint, updated electrical and plumbing). No one in my family is interested in moving to Odessa.
@Jerry Heasley I thought the sofa and matching chair were cool enough to make the video well worth watching (really simple but stunning furniture pieces) let alone the Skyliner, and all the fine folks highlighted herein! Thank you. Peace.
You mention the smells in the home bringing back memories.. that is such a profound and powerful sense that we connect to our entire life. I can be triggered to a trip back in time by some particular smells in my grandparents home 60+ years ago, and it's instant and unexpected. If one could just preserve and encapsulate that for posterity.. 🤔. Especially if they were pleasant memories! 😬🤗🙏. Great story and thanks for such care in preparing it for the viewers👍👍🙏
In the fall of 1957 I was seven years old, living in Florence, Alabama. My parents and I had just left a movie theater showing Loving You, an Elvis movie. A crowd had gathered outside to watch a new Skyliner drop it's top into the trunk and applauded afterward. Seems like just yesterday.
I can remember the first time I saw the Skyliner's top fold back into the trunk. We all thought it was the coolest thing ever! When I was a kid, though, I loved my grandparents' 1940 Olds, which was stored in the back garage. It looked like something out of a gangster movie. It seemed enormous! My mom, though, said that as a teenager she was embarrassed to be seen in it and would ask her mom or dad to drop her off a block away from school! Haha! Typical teenager.
I was also 7 in 1957, and living in Bainbridge, MD, on Laffey Circle. A neighbor had a Skyliner and when that top disappeared into the trunk, all we kids could say was, "Neat-o!"
The car itself is impressive, but even more impressive is the thoroughly decent people involved right along the whole story. Well done to all concerned.
Rarely do I start watching something half-interested (I'm from the UK, not familiar with the car model etc.) and then feel glued to watching it to the end, but this was so inspiring. I also love Sewell's business ethos that shows a real passion for their products, their past and a wonderful sense of community. Well done to you all.
@@Bulletguy07, It's worth easily in the $50,000's US$ here also. This one will go much higher though, even sold in this condition. In fact, most buyers prefer this exact condition! It's insanely original for it's make and age. A true survivor! I can't fault the dealer, as the seller started so low, but I can't give them any accolades either except for a job well done in the car market! Lol!
I didn't go into the refurbishing, but the restorer told me the car was totally worn out and needed everything. It was 22 months later that we showed the refurbished car.
Nope...that would be true, perhaps, if the car was just 20 years old, but a car over 60 years old, is much like a person in their 60s...systems are worn out! lol
Man, what a time capsule. That car is priceless, the whole house is so special. I don't know why, but I got a few tears in my eyes. A simpler time, beautiful. Keep us informed on the car, it's a fabulous story. Thanks for posting.
A classic , is a statement of those years ! but if we change upholstery, convertible top, rebuild the hole car is not original , is restored ! Then what people pays for it is what they like as restored not original ,were the engine has never been open,or changed , but in original state ! What the market pays it depends on the buyer , but original even worn is original , if it needs fuel pump, or radiator repair , ok accessories to the main component to prove running conditions ! Maybe im the old guard , because today people has a 1957 CHEVY and puts high performance wheels, engine, exhaust , excellent 10 coat paint job and fetch high bids !
That folding hardtop was a massive surprise seeing it towards to the end. Wow. Well done to the Sewell family too. Seems like a solid and passionate family business
I remember when that model was first available and then I saw one on the college campus. I thought, "Impressive!" and then my impression was, "Wow, not much luggage space." I few years later I went to meet another musician for a gig and we were deciding whose car to use. Well, he just took my string bass and laid it flat inside the trunk of his Pontiac. THAT was good trunk space.
This used to be the Amercan dream. The reason people can't seem to achieve it today is because it changed. Not a huge house, no electronics, made things last and took care with their possessions, never replaced anything that still worked, never aspired to more than they could afford. Our grandparents took pride in ownership, no matter how meager.
Yes!! Ford History!! Gramps was Henry's 1st Apprentice in '01. In '61, his Grandson also a Henry dropped off a Ford Country Squire to Gramps, & I gave demo of '41 Ford 9N tractor that he had never seen worked. '76 buddy stopped into World Headquarters to introduce me to Mr. Ford. On glance he gave a quick hug & said, "If it isn't Erwin Schmidt from Howell!!" He had remembered me from '61, took us to his office, & showed us his desktop photo of he, his Grandfather the original Henry, plus my Dad & Grandfather from 3-5-25 in front of their newest model, The Ford TriMotor!! Four of them had taken tour of Detroit Area to celebrate Gramps' Birthday. My buddy Howard was impressed!! He never did that kind of thing to me again!!! Nice video and brought back memories for me! Thanks!!
My father had 2 56 Fords. One blue and white and 1 green and white. He 😊👍Had to 57 Ford wagons. One blue and white one black and White. 1 a 292, and 1 a 312. There were a lot of fun. 👍😊
I love all the vintage retractable hardtop convertibles. Beautiful automobile, great story, and-as others have commented-the dealership owner saying “give them $25,000” is an act that restores one’s faith in humanity if that faith was wavering. Thank you! Peace.
I live out here in Odessa Texas and we've bought several vehicles from Sewell over the years. Still have the Expedition we bought New from them back in 2002
This is one of the coolest car stories I've heard in a while. Almost brought tears to my eyes, probably because our family recently had an estate sale which was emotionally pretty painful for me.
My mom took some items from the house. Sean and I selected a few items too. We'd have taken many more items if we had room in our own home. We'd have taken the car if we had a garage!
@@jackbraden134 True, but the old cars are very rebuildable, not like our modern computer controlled rolling a piles of plastic. Modern cars can go 200,000 and more miles, but would be extremely expensive to rebuild.
A friend of mine bought a 57 Fairlane convertible here in the UK back in 71, and asked me to collect it for him. I was 18 at the time, and had to drive it back 120 miles across London in the rush hour. Never driven in London, or a LHD before. 3 up the tree, and those huge tail lights. Just indicate and those turn signals just made the London cabbies move out of the way. Just like parting the Red Sea. It had been converted from a straight 6 to a V8, and sprayed metallic orange. Drove it a few times with the top down. What a babe magnet. Nice to see that Sunliner refreshed and given the care it deserves. A real car, not like today's plastic milk floats.
I love the idea this car is going to be well taken care of and most importantly not modded out kept original, these cars are a time capsules, great story
My first car was a 1958 Fairlane 500 2 door with the 352 Interceptor Special.Factory 4 barrel carb,duel exhaust,and about 300 horsepower.Was a fun car.
Thanks, nice Ford. Oops:: I always eondredd a our the INTERCEPTOR ZEMGIND??, I started my a 1954 FORD/V8/2D, WITH 1957 Engine 289/ 4 BBL / dual exh/ m8,d CUSTomised:61 GALAXIE Convertible v/352/ auto:1966 GALAXIE 500 XL/352 engine/4 Speed/ dual EXH/ Deluxe(* Interior …….(* THE 1966, the favorite,& fixer upper-- sort of like Jay LENO’s GALAXIE 1966, on the cheap build up, for me….
I like that the young man seems humble and respects the legacy his family has built. I hope he can keep the dealership thriving for decades and pass it along to his children.
That car would fetch more than a new 2023 fully equipped Navigator at at auction without restoration. Everybody low balls because they know how much they get when it is polished and all nicks and wear spots get cleaned up. Barret Jackson is where it will end up.
Another great feel good story Jerry. Congratulation to the Sewell Family for making this happen Fantastic to get a part of the family history back and pure class on the purchase price Bought many cars from them. had no idea they had been around since 1911. True Pillar of West Texas for a very long time
Texans need to let go of their obsessive thoughts about the greatness of Texas!...You are just another one of our 50 states making up the USA...every state has businesses that are pillars of their communities.
Fantastic! That is a rare vintage car right there and it cleaned up beautifully. Nice to see it go to exactly the kind of people it should who know how to take care of it. The motors that lift the roof off are huge! A neighbor had one of these when I was a kid and we marveled at the way the roof fitted in the trunk, thought it was the coolest thing ever! Bravo and thanks for this great story!
What a beauty. One of my neighbors had one brand new. I dug the top folding into the trunk. All of us kids that loved cars started hanging around his house to talk to him about his car. Next door was an Avanti and a couple over was another classic. 3 beauties on one block was a treat.
Yes it was a iconic automobile. But I'm quite sure the dealership had ulterior motives when going after that purchase. Hence the higher price paid. They're not the heroes here. The original owners certainly were.
@@djrosenberry We found all sorts of treasures...there's still a few left. If anyone wants a few model T parts or know what to do with 15 Magnetos let me know....😄
@@anthonyangeli256 Thanks for that, but I think we all got a great experience out of it! After all value is simply subjective...I applaud that they want to keep it running and to take care of their own history too.
Beautiful story and when I lived in San Angelo I bought a car from a Sowell Dallas dealership. They treated me great and went above and beyond for me. If I ever can get back to Texas they will be my dealer. Thank you for sharing the story.
People have said the horn came from the street, but Sean's reflex action was to turn his head inside the garage. I was filming and that was my reaction, too.
@@thewriter2549 that was one amazing catch on film. The light could have been anything, but I found it odd. The horn there was no explanation for. Last year, my son bought a dump truck from the 70s. It is running, with a few issues. One was the break lights on one side didn't work. He was working on it, got new wires and such. Had to stop to go out of town to work. One night the dogs went nuts, so I go out to look. I heard a car door shut in my drive way. So stepped out to walk around and look. Halfway walking past the dump truck I noticed a red glow. At first I'm thinking a fire, then walk around to notice, the right tail light was on. I'm at the back, when it hit my brain, someone is inside that truck, pushing the break down. So I slowly back up. Ease over to the side, seeing no one inside, I jerk the door open. It is empty, but the break peddle is halfway down. So I raise it up, with my hand. It took some force to raise it. Light goes out, and I walk around to see who was here. Driveway was empty too. Call my son, he said the light have no wires so how was it working. I was smart and took a few pics to show my son. It happened I have proof. I believe it was a distraction, we had an attempted break-in a while back. We believe it was someone we knew. So if I had of walked around that night and saw someone in my driveway after midnight, that would have been hard to explain away. I believe I was being protected that night. Keeping me busy for 2 minutes while they could get away. The truck has never done that since, and we could never get the break to stay down on its own. That will stay with me forever and I'm sure the horn blowing will stick with you the same way. Never to be explained.
@@harrybalz525 I listened again just now to that part of the video. The man talking turns to look inside the garage. Sounded like it was coming from Within, not out on the street. Car with no horn blows and a truck with no break light wires, lites up. Just makes you scratch your head, and wonder.
Love the car, love the story ! For those of us that are car enthusiasts, we can appreciate different makes and models, old and new. Thanks for sharing !
The horn honking was NOT from the FORD. It was a security beep/honk from another car nearby. There were A LOT of people gathering to trailer the car. It was from somebody else's car that was rendering assistance. They locked the doors to their personal car and were walking up to the garage. Class dismissed.
Jerry, your videos never disappoint! Touching story about the 57’, and hopefully they’ll put it in their showroom on occasion as a tribute to the original owner and to document their own legacy!
We use to have a rich history of family owned dealerships in my community now they all have sold to large multi dealerships with dealerships all over the state the last couple of vehicles I've bought is drove a hundred miles to a larger town and buy from family owned dealerships
Very cool video. The history is great. Love the furnishings and appliances in the Grandmother's house. Amazing! Looks like the set of a 1950's TV show.
I love family owned dealerships. The roots grow deep. The family sold cars to families year after year. My first dealership was a 5th generation Cadillac Pontiac store. They started selling horse carriage sales. The owner Louie Speroels in Cumberland Maryland. He taught me all about sales. The guy I took his desk had been there 40 year. I was the youngest salesman ever. I got a new Pontiac GT EVERY 4000 MILES. WOW WHAT A BENEFIT. I MADE 65,000 BUCKS IN 1985 THAT WAS A BUNCH OF MONEY BACK THEN. RIP LOUIE I LOVE YOU FOR ALWAYS. NEAL
I recently settled with my aunts and uncle on my great grandpas 1957 Chevy 2 dr 150 sedan that he bought brand new. The cheapest 57 you could buy. No clock, no radio, straight 6 blue flame with 3 on the tree. 31,000 original miles a true survivor. I saved it in 1997 from a massive flood and been storing it inside since 2001. It’s nice to finally be the sole owner. It really needs to get back on the road. I should document the process on YT. I really enjoy these videos of restructuring this olds classics!!
Great video Mr Heasley. A friend of my grandparents, now a friend of mine restored/ pieced together a skyliner a few years ago. His is the black and white version, to me a car has to be something really special to put in the work and hours it takes to build a car with the intent to paint it black and have a laser straight paint job in the end but he pulled it off. The onboard system that operates all the the hidden linkages for the top on one of these cars is mind boggling but definitely worth the effort in the end. Glad to see you’ve documented a little bit of the history of this one, not only for us but for future generations. Always enjoy your videos and I really appreciate that these videos help keep pieces of motoring history alive for us and future generations. Great work sir. 👍
What a great story! Surprised though that it had a 312 CID, but it makes sense. It's so good to hear the son refer with respect 'Sir' to the older gentlemen. Something that is hardly taught any more. It was required by both parents growing up, Mom from Alabama and Dad from Misissippi. Good luck to all.
It does.. I got a used 1956 Crown Victoria wagon from my dad who got it from a job he did (my dad and I used to do tile and linoleum) and that was a 312 Thunderbird engine.
I drove a four door 1957 Ford to the University of Illinois where I was a student. It was blue and white and had a 292 engine. The only problem I ever had was a leaky valve cover gasket. 🤠
Meacham, you have a wonderfull spirit. It is obvious you are very pround of your heritage and have a great father and family connection to your heritaqe, work hard and enjoy your family and life. Great taste. regards Terry
I loved how you kept the story going to the end. Most "garage finds" like this would have ended when the car was loaded on the trailer and hauled away. But y'all wasn't finished yet. Very nice. What a great ending. And thanks to Paul Harvey, now we know the rest of the story.
Appreciate the credit Ben, yeah I waited 22 months to show what happened to the car. It just needed so much work to get going - rebuild the engine and top, brakes, fuel system, new upholstery and more.
This has Beef a Plesare to watch I was born in 1963 my Uncle owned one just like this I’m so Happy this 1957 went home was The lot That no was sold There is so much Historic Meaning to This Story I have Enjoyed was about the Car and Where It n has gone GOD BLESS YOU ALL
She loved her son and set him up like only a mother who loves with all her heart would. Could you imagine her plotting to buy a car for her boy and the smile it brought to her face? My mom got me the gift of music, a Fender bass that was way more than she could afford. Her love was something every boy in this world should have. It showed me women are to be treated with full kindness and honor.
Neutralize that rust on the rocker panel with some Ospho and don't touch anything else. Car Dealerships are a different breed of business. Not really relished by many folks. This Dealer broke the mold for me. I was elated to hear Mr. Sewell step up to the plate, not just for him but the Dealership as a whole. Any company that's been in the same business for that many years must be doing something right. And it shows!! Good on you Mr. Sewell!!
My mother had a 57 Ford 2 door with the Thunderbird engine. She very proud of that car. It was not a Skyliner but just a coupe. We would tear up the highway going to East Texas to visit my grand parents. Her next car was a 61 Galaxie 500.
Hemming classic car magazine did an amazing story on these cars several years back, telling the entire story of the development. The electric motors by themselves was an interesting story. At the time, no one made compact motors with the power they needed. It was suggested that they used hydraulic cylinders to power the top using a centrally located pump. But one executive was adamant that it had to be an electric power top because if a hose broke a sprayer people with hydraulic oil......not a good thing.
My grandpa still has his 1957 fairlane 500 that he bought brand new while he worked at a ford dealer back in the day all black with three on the tree. It's his pride and joy people have tried to buy the car for years none have succeeded. Still looks like new with original interior. He's 88 now and hasn't been able to drive for a few years so in the summer I shine her up put him in the car and drive him around. It's a lot of work just to drive around the neighborhood but his smile the whole time makes it worth it
He's still in training, learning the rob and stick methods on how to beat you out of your money on a new or used car! From the looks of him he may not be shifty enough, so they'll let him dabble with the old cars.
54 year old in Australia . Love love love the house and contents and of course the car . My home is full of mid century stuff . Just classic and so classy . ❤️❤️
Just watched till the end and HOLY SMOKE !!! The car is sooooooooooooo beautiful . My 15 year old daughter loves old cars , I can see her wanting one when she starts to drive 😊😊
What a great looking car. . We have nothing like it in the UK. Its lovely to see that a dealership wanted to purchase the car. I would put it in the showroom. Not for sale, but to attract customers.
The hard top requires eight electric motors, operating in prefect sequence. They failed frequently, often while the top was in operation. It would completely immobilize the car. They sold few of them and it lasted only two model years. Which makes it rare and more valuable than ever.
We didn't want to try the mechanism for just that reason! Although the last time I visited my grandmother (before moving abroad in 1990; she passed away a few weeks after I returned in 1993), she did put the top down for a drive around town. It was fabulous!
Oldest Ford Dealer in the Country.... Ford Dealerships are a rarity now in some states, city's. My dad bought a 1969 Ford F250 from dealership here in Oakland called Broadway Ford, now an Audi Dealership. The town I grew up in Alameda had a dealership, Morris Landy Ford was there for 50 years, Hayward Ford long gone now also.
I had a 57 Ford too, but it was a rag top. White on Black, same 312 block with a Holley four barrel carb and a Mallery Mag-Spark ignition. Great car. But sold it when I went to Korea in Late 1962 with the US Army. Loved the video, thanks for posting.
My Grandma's sister-in-law had a basic '57 Ford 4 door sedan. The daughters husband and son were very excited about the car and took it from Minnesota to Louisiana. It's still in the family.
I am 79 years old and my sister 81 years old. In 1960 when my sister graduated from HS she went to her 1960 Prom with her boyfriend Andy. They were double dating with my sister's best friend Judy. Judy's boyfriend had just bought a used 1957 Ford retractable hardtop like this car. They arrived at our house to get my sister and Andy, Judy's boyfriend showed the whole neighborhood how the top lifted up and tucked away. The top was halfway open and stuck. Wouldn't go either way. They all went to the Prom in Andy's old Chevy. Life goes fast enjoy it while you can.
I've heard that was common for the tops to fail, having so many switches and levers. So, it's fun to hear real stories like this. Thanks. The early 1960s were interesting times.
The car couldn't have gone to a better home...a huge dealership like Sewell has the resources to treat this car right, and it's good for the business. A win win as they say
Theyre only orginal once. I was surprised they replaced the interior until i realised the paint wasnt original so it wasnt a big deal. Having that original sales slip with the fathers name on it does give it a link to your family. I would park it in the showroom as an advertisng feature.
Let me know if you want to move to Odessa. We are cleaning up the house (keeping as much original as possible) right now and will be putting it up for sale this spring.
The SEWELL's have one of the best managed dealer group at all their locations. I have a special bond to them: although I am not a relative, their Grandfather, Dr.Julian Sewell delivered me into this World at Sewell-Long Hospital in Belton TX!!
I worked many years out of the Ford PDC in Carrollton and my father-in-law retired from there as traffic manager. Dealing with Sewell was always very pleasant, the who network of dealers were respectable. Dealing with Westway and Dub Richardson, totally different story. Nice video, congrats to the awesome people at Sewell.
👍👌👏 Oh WOW, simply fantastic! Of course I would love to own this car. Mainly because it's a convertible with a foldable metal roof. Thanks a lot for making teaching explaining recording editing uploading and sharing. Best regards luck and especially health to all involved people.
I still remember the day my dad came home in a brand new black on red 1956 Crown Vic 292 with three on the tree. It was the car I eventually learned to drive with, but by that time it had a T-bird 312 and three in the floor. He traded it for a 1964 Fastback red on red 390 with four in the floor. I would mow the grass, hoe the garden, and do a week's laundry just to get to drive that Fastback to town and back.
My uncle bob sold new fords for years, early 50's to 76 he said after the first-year model (57) those cars sold the word got out on how the electric motors on the top kept breaking down and sales slowed down 58, and by 59 they couldn't hardly give those cars away. Now there worth their weight in gold. James's Deans cousin (yes that James Dean) Marcus Winslow has A red and white one you couldn't touch for less than $65,000. - to $75,000. - You can see it every year at the James dean run in Fairmount In. This car was worth every bit of $30 to $35 K when it rolled out of the garage needing cleaned up, you got bamboozled lady.... Oh and it is at A new car dealership where everything on the lot is for sale, that car DOES NOT HAVE A HOME YET.. BUT IT WILL WHEN THE PRICE IS RIGHT.......
I was stoked that it went for what it did, but mostly that it went back to someone that is really going to drive it and take care of it. If Dena and I had a place to store it we would have kept it, for sure, but thanks to Jerry we'll always have the memory. I still want to drive it around now that it is renovavated (that was part of the spoken deal, although I don't really expect it from the Sewell's, it is their car now fair and square, and we thank them for taking care of it!) Funny enough, I am finally back in the house to renovate it and sell it. Maybe I'll make a video of the restoration too...I'm sure it won't be as popular at this special car was. Just want to say thanks to all the positive comments, it was a really special car for Dena and held lots of memories...and always will.
You know I love a good story, Jerry - and a time capsule sitting in a garage since '57 will do just fine. How the heck do you find out about these cars? Sure glad you choose to share them! - Ed on the Ridge
I've been hunting and writing stories on these barn finds for so long that I get calls. I have a passion for this. If anybody has one they want written up and made into a video like this, please call or email - jerryheasley@gmail.com and 806-236-3681
Great video just sad the grandmother kept all that stuff for years and the family is not going to keep it. Typical family, Just sell it and make money. I could never do that to my mom and dads stuff. I would of kept the car. One of the grandsons might want it someday.
@@jaysmith179 We kept furniture and keepsakes and items made by hand (by my grandmother and my uncle), but also sold quite a bit. And donated much more to benefit the nearby Petroleum Museum (where my uncle was a docent) and charities that my grandmother and uncle were involved with, as well as nearby schools. We would have kept the car, but none of us has a place to keep it indoors.
There is a 1956 Chevy 2 door hard top 265 V/8 3 on the tree with an honest 80,000 miles that a little old lady still drives once a week to the local Albertsons grocery store. I have put a note on it several times and last year she needed some masonry repair that I did the job on. When I arrived to do the bid there sat the 56 and I was able to finally talk with her. It's not for sale and I know now she has my phone number and she knows I did a good job on the repair of her brick home. Hopefully one day I will get the phone call.
Sounds good, and if you do get the call, maybe you will let us do a good video on this great American story. My email is jerryheasley@gmail.com
@@thewriter2549 Sounds good. Thanks for all of the great videos. You always get this Chevy guy thinking about buying a Mustang..LOL
@@lucky-rowe2623 Now that sounds like a good story/video - Chevy guy buys a Ford.
This story is another masterpiece. Thank you Jerry for telling it.
@@rogerd9150 Thanks Roger, I started the video in March of 2021, and waited 22 months for the car to be completed.
My dad had a brand new 57 ford convertible. Pretty much the same colors. Ordered it from the local rural ford dealer. Wentworth auto sales in guys mills pa. V8, 292 , I believe and a 3 on the tree. He loved that car . Had to give it up when he got layed off from the steel mill in Titusville. Back then it happened a lot. But raising a family came first. Not like today. Losing that car broke his heart,but it started another trend, he got a used pick up a dodge I believe, and he owned a truck up till the day he died in 2009. I carry on the Ford tradition in honor of my dad. I own 4 of them at the moment a newer f150, a 77 f100. A ford 500, and a mustang convertible. Miss you dad.
Reminds me of when Dad’s mother passed in 1993. In her barn was a 1963 Chevy Impala with a little over 5000 miles. She didn’t drive and my grandfather passed soon after buying it. It had been under a tarp. In great shape except for rotten tires. My Dad cleaned it up and drove it for years. He was so proud of it. My Dad loved cars. Great mechanic. I will always have that memory of him.
Really cool. What happened to car?
My great aunt had a 1950 Chevy. dark green with the infamous power glide. When she steered the car around the corner without power steering she stutter stepped her arms with one arm never crossing over the top of the other. Twenty seven thousand miles in maybe 1980 when my greedy uncle sold it to someone. He got all the personal property of the estate. Said it was his right that the eldest relative got it all. Of course his lawyer wrote the will.
@@ohiofarmer5918,
That sucks. It would have been nice for the Chevy to stay in the family somehow!
@@ohiofarmer5918 That's common my mother's was looted before and after too.
Beautiful story❤
I liked how they gave more than the lady expected. Well done everyone and kudos to the ladies grandparents for looking after it and keeping it alive
The Sewell family was so friendly, Meacham and his dad, Collin.
$25,000 still seems light for such an original retractable.
@@-oiiio-3993 Estate prices are about the weakest you'll ever find.
@@fraidykat Been there.
@@-oiiio-3993 Yes that car is Ford Tough and Ford Quality. The Thunderbird 312 was awesome and refreshing. Isn't it a novel idea it was BUILT in *America* by American workers with American parts for Americans?
I miss the house more than the car. I love them both, but the memories of the time spent in the house, the different smells, the family gatherings melt my heart. Thanks for sharing!
Yeah, it got to me, too. I could have done a whole video in there.
I was just back at the house earlier this month. We are fixing it up to sell (new flooring, paint, updated electrical and plumbing). No one in my family is interested in moving to Odessa.
@Jerry Heasley
I thought the sofa and matching chair were cool enough to make the video well worth watching (really simple but stunning furniture pieces) let alone the Skyliner, and all the fine folks highlighted herein! Thank you.
Peace.
You mention the smells in the home bringing back memories.. that is such a profound and powerful sense that we connect to our entire life. I can be triggered to a trip back in time by some particular smells in my grandparents home 60+ years ago, and it's instant and unexpected. If one could just preserve and encapsulate that for posterity.. 🤔. Especially if they were pleasant memories! 😬🤗🙏. Great story and thanks for such care in preparing it for the viewers👍👍🙏
I remember when Ford trucks came out with made in Texas by Texans on dash. This car is really beautiful
In the fall of 1957 I was seven years old, living in Florence, Alabama. My parents and I had just left a movie theater showing Loving You, an Elvis movie. A crowd had gathered outside to watch a new Skyliner drop it's top into the trunk and applauded afterward. Seems like just yesterday.
Wow, amazing great American story!
I can remember the first time I saw the Skyliner's top fold back into the trunk. We all thought it was the coolest thing ever! When I was a kid, though, I loved my grandparents' 1940 Olds, which was stored in the back garage. It looked like something out of a gangster movie. It seemed enormous! My mom, though, said that as a teenager she was embarrassed to be seen in it and would ask her mom or dad to drop her off a block away from school! Haha! Typical teenager.
I was also 7 in 1957, and living in Bainbridge, MD, on Laffey Circle. A neighbor had a Skyliner and when that top disappeared into the trunk, all we kids could say was, "Neat-o!"
The car itself is impressive, but even more impressive is the thoroughly decent people involved right along the whole story. Well done to all concerned.
Thanks for such a positive comment, I think we all had a positive experience with this and am glad to read your comment.
that's Texas
They are vultures... Again picking the bones of the dead !!!
Decent??? Wtf is wrong with u?
Rarely do I start watching something half-interested (I'm from the UK, not familiar with the car model etc.) and then feel glued to watching it to the end, but this was so inspiring. I also love Sewell's business ethos that shows a real passion for their products, their past and a wonderful sense of community. Well done to you all.
I’m from the UK too. Jerrys videos are amazing and you should check out all the old ones if you haven’t seen them already, there are some crackers 👍🏼
Nobody puts together a better car-find video than “legendary Jerry”
Me too - just a limp clicked in - and then I watched all 16 minutes. That's really rare for me.
UK here also. This model sells for double here what the dealer guy paid! Seems the son Ronald was perfectly happy living in a time capsule too!
@@Bulletguy07,
It's worth easily in the $50,000's US$ here also. This one will go much higher though, even sold in this condition. In fact, most buyers prefer this exact condition! It's insanely original for it's make and age. A true survivor!
I can't fault the dealer, as the seller started so low, but I can't give them any accolades either except for a job well done in the car market! Lol!
A wash ,interior clean ,fluid changes ,polish , brake check ,is all this car needs !
I didn't go into the refurbishing, but the restorer told me the car was totally worn out and needed everything. It was 22 months later that we showed the refurbished car.
@@thewriter2549 Yes...nearly 90,000 miles on that car...that car would have been nearing the end of it's life, during that era.
Nope...that would be true, perhaps, if the car was just 20 years old, but a car over 60 years old, is much like a person in their 60s...systems are worn out! lol
Man, what a time capsule. That car is priceless, the whole house is so special. I don't know why, but I got a few tears in my eyes. A simpler time, beautiful.
Keep us informed on the car, it's a fabulous story. Thanks for posting.
A classic , is a statement of those years ! but if we change upholstery, convertible top, rebuild the hole car is not original , is restored ! Then what people pays for it is what they like as restored not original ,were the engine has never been open,or changed , but in original state ! What the market pays it depends on the buyer , but original even worn is original , if it needs fuel pump, or radiator repair , ok accessories to the main component to prove running conditions ! Maybe im the old guard , because today people has a 1957 CHEVY and puts high performance wheels, engine, exhaust , excellent 10 coat paint job and fetch high bids !
60k
If they only knew what an international bidding war for it.
I know what you mean, just looking at the great shape of the car and the house and the contents, you feel like you know the people who lived there.
You guys better study before you go spending!
That folding hardtop was a massive surprise seeing it towards to the end. Wow. Well done to the Sewell family too. Seems like a solid and passionate family business
That was what made the Skyline special. To think they make a big deal out of the same thing today, when it existed more than sixty years ago.
Well maybe, but they’re still car salesmen, just like their cousins in DFW.
I have never seen a folding hardtop before, didn't know they existed, and I am 70.
I remember when that model was first available and then I saw one on the college campus. I thought, "Impressive!" and then my impression was, "Wow, not much luggage space." I few years later I went to meet another musician for a gig and we were deciding whose car to use. Well, he just took my string bass and laid it flat inside the trunk of his Pontiac. THAT was good trunk space.
This used to be the Amercan dream. The reason people can't seem to achieve it today is because it changed. Not a huge house, no electronics, made things last and took care with their possessions, never replaced anything that still worked, never aspired to more than they could afford. Our grandparents took pride in ownership, no matter how meager.
Yes!! Ford History!! Gramps was Henry's 1st Apprentice in '01. In '61, his Grandson also a Henry dropped off a Ford Country Squire to Gramps, & I gave demo of '41 Ford 9N tractor that he had never seen worked. '76 buddy stopped into World Headquarters to introduce me to Mr. Ford. On glance he gave a quick hug & said, "If it isn't Erwin Schmidt from Howell!!" He had remembered me from '61, took us to his office, & showed us his desktop photo of he, his Grandfather the original Henry, plus my Dad & Grandfather from 3-5-25 in front of their newest model, The Ford TriMotor!! Four of them had taken tour of Detroit Area to celebrate Gramps' Birthday. My buddy Howard was impressed!! He never did that kind of thing to me again!!! Nice video and brought back memories for me! Thanks!!
What a great story!
My father had 2 56 Fords. One blue and white and 1 green and white. He 😊👍Had to 57 Ford wagons. One blue and white one black and White. 1 a 292, and 1 a 312. There were a lot of fun. 👍😊
I love all the vintage retractable hardtop convertibles.
Beautiful automobile, great story, and-as others have commented-the dealership owner saying “give them $25,000” is an act that restores one’s faith in humanity if that faith was wavering. Thank you!
Peace.
that car is easily worth more than $25000 in todays market.
Had 2 Fords across the street in 1980 like that and the TINY BMW in garage in the corner..HaHa
That car is worth well over $100,000... they stole it at 25K...disgusting
I live out here in Odessa Texas and we've bought several vehicles from Sewell over the years. Still have the Expedition we bought New from them back in 2002
This is one of the coolest car stories I've heard in a while. Almost brought tears to my eyes, probably because our family recently had an estate sale which was emotionally pretty painful for me.
I know the feeling. My sister and older brother took everything to a Consignment store. They got ripped off ! 😮😅
Goods were built to last much longer than those built today. This house has a treasure trove of working antiques.
My mom took some items from the house. Sean and I selected a few items too. We'd have taken many more items if we had room in our own home. We'd have taken the car if we had a garage!
That's not really true,a car back in the 60s with 100.000mi.was considered pretty much ready for a rebuild or the junk yard.
@@jackbraden134 True, but the old cars are very rebuildable, not like our modern computer controlled rolling a piles of plastic. Modern cars can go 200,000 and more miles, but would be extremely expensive to rebuild.
A friend of mine bought a 57 Fairlane convertible here in the UK back in 71, and asked me to collect it for him. I was 18 at the time, and had to drive it back 120 miles across London in the rush hour. Never driven in London, or a LHD before. 3 up the tree, and those huge tail lights. Just indicate and those turn signals just made the London cabbies move out of the way. Just like parting the Red Sea. It had been converted from a straight 6 to a V8, and sprayed metallic orange. Drove it a few times with the top down. What a babe magnet.
Nice to see that Sunliner refreshed and given the care it deserves. A real car, not like today's plastic milk floats.
This is the best advertisement for Ford Agency. It is going to attract many customers. I am glad that the car found a good home.
Beautiful to see the old girl go back home! I hope they let her sit in the showroom again!
I like the attitude of those people. They value their history. I wish more people did these days.
I love the idea this car is going to be well taken care of and most importantly not modded out kept original, these cars are a time capsules, great story
My first car was a 1958 Fairlane 500 2 door with the 352 Interceptor Special.Factory 4 barrel carb,duel exhaust,and about 300 horsepower.Was a fun car.
Thanks, nice Ford. Oops:: I always eondredd a our the INTERCEPTOR ZEMGIND??, I started my a 1954 FORD/V8/2D, WITH 1957 Engine 289/ 4 BBL / dual exh/ m8,d CUSTomised:61 GALAXIE Convertible v/352/ auto:1966 GALAXIE 500 XL/352 engine/4 Speed/ dual EXH/ Deluxe(* Interior …….(* THE 1966, the favorite,& fixer upper-- sort of like Jay LENO’s GALAXIE 1966, on the cheap build up, for me….
This is an amazing story. And that they gave over the asking price‼️ Bravo Sewell family 👏 👍
I like that the young man seems humble and respects the legacy his family has built. I hope he can keep the dealership thriving for decades and pass it along to his children.
That car would fetch more than a new 2023 fully equipped Navigator at at auction without restoration.
Everybody low balls because they know how much they get when it is polished and all nicks and wear spots get cleaned up.
Barret Jackson is where it will end up.
Another great feel good story Jerry. Congratulation to the Sewell Family for making this happen Fantastic to get a part of the family history back and pure class on the purchase price Bought many cars from them. had no idea they had been around since 1911. True Pillar of West Texas for a very long time
Texans need to let go of their obsessive thoughts about the greatness of Texas!...You are just another one of our 50 states making up the USA...every state has businesses that are pillars of their communities.
Fantastic! That is a rare vintage car right there and it cleaned up beautifully. Nice to see it go to exactly the kind of people it should who know how to take care of it. The motors that lift the roof off are huge! A neighbor had one of these when I was a kid and we marveled at the way the roof fitted in the trunk, thought it was the coolest thing ever! Bravo and thanks for this great story!
What a beauty. One of my neighbors had one brand new. I dug the top folding into the trunk. All of us kids that loved cars started hanging around his house to talk to him about his car. Next door was an Avanti and a couple over was another classic. 3 beauties on one block was a treat.
That's a testament to how long a car they sold lasted. How great that the car has finally come home.
57, first year for the retractable hardtop. I love those mid to late 50’s Fords. Grew up in a strictly Ford family 😂
You can feel to patina of the house and car oozing through the screen . Beautiful.
The Skyliner was an amazing car. And the Sewell Ford who sold it . A amazing garage find. Thank you for sharing this amazing story!
It was an amazing "aha!" moment when I found the original purchase invoice from Sewell Ford in a file cabinet in the house!
Yes it was a iconic automobile. But I'm quite sure the dealership had ulterior motives when going after that purchase. Hence the higher price paid. They're not the heroes here. The original owners certainly were.
@@anthonyangeli256 Agree totally 💯
@@djrosenberry We found all sorts of treasures...there's still a few left. If anyone wants a few model T parts or know what to do with 15 Magnetos let me know....😄
@@anthonyangeli256 Thanks for that, but I think we all got a great experience out of it! After all value is simply subjective...I applaud that they want to keep it running and to take care of their own history too.
Beautiful story and when I lived in San Angelo I bought a car from a Sowell Dallas dealership. They treated me great and went above and beyond for me. If I ever can get back to Texas they will be my dealer. Thank you for sharing the story.
I got the chills when the light went out, and again when the horn beeped. Someone is letting them know they are there 👀 watching. That was so cool
People have said the horn came from the street, but Sean's reflex action was to turn his head inside the garage. I was filming and that was my reaction, too.
@@thewriter2549 that was one amazing catch on film. The light could have been anything, but I found it odd. The horn there was no explanation for.
Last year, my son bought a dump truck from the 70s. It is running, with a few issues. One was the break lights on one side didn't work. He was working on it, got new wires and such. Had to stop to go out of town to work. One night the dogs went nuts, so I go out to look. I heard a car door shut in my drive way. So stepped out to walk around and look. Halfway walking past the dump truck I noticed a red glow. At first I'm thinking a fire, then walk around to notice, the right tail light was on. I'm at the back, when it hit my brain, someone is inside that truck, pushing the break down. So I slowly back up. Ease over to the side, seeing no one inside, I jerk the door open. It is empty, but the break peddle is halfway down. So I raise it up, with my hand. It took some force to raise it. Light goes out, and I walk around to see who was here. Driveway was empty too.
Call my son, he said the light have no wires so how was it working. I was smart and took a few pics to show my son. It happened I have proof.
I believe it was a distraction, we had an attempted break-in a while back. We believe it was someone we knew. So if I had of walked around that night and saw someone in my driveway after midnight, that would have been hard to explain away. I believe I was being protected that night. Keeping me busy for 2 minutes while they could get away. The truck has never done that since, and we could never get the break to stay down on its own.
That will stay with me forever and I'm sure the horn blowing will stick with you the same way. Never to be explained.
@@harrybalz525 I listened again just now to that part of the video. The man talking turns to look inside the garage. Sounded like it was coming from Within, not out on the street. Car with no horn blows and a truck with no break light wires, lites up. Just makes you scratch your head, and wonder.
😅😅@@thewriter2549
@@thewriter254916:03 16:03 😅😊
It's good to hear tales of generosity and kindness such as this one.
Love the car, love the story ! For those of us that are car enthusiasts, we can appreciate different makes and models, old and new. Thanks for sharing !
So are we not gonna talk about the light going off, the horn blowing. This car definitely has a spirit.
it didn't want to leave the house
The horn honking was NOT from the FORD. It was a security beep/honk from another car nearby. There were A LOT of people gathering to trailer the car. It was from somebody else's car that was rendering assistance. They locked the doors to their personal car and were walking up to the garage. Class dismissed.
@243wayne1 , I bet you where the kid in kindergarten telling everyone Santa 🎅 isn't real .O Well, here's your cookie!
@@gypsypearl38 Don't be such a simpleton. Use your thought process to think things through.
@243wayne1 , I thought class was dismissed. Sorry teach, I'll do better next time. Now run along.
Jerry, your videos never disappoint! Touching story about the 57’, and hopefully they’ll put it in their showroom on occasion as a tribute to the original owner and to document their own legacy!
Showroom and homecoming parades!
Great story and the dealer got a very good deal and the family seemed happy with the outcome. Glad to see this old girl revived.
We use to have a rich history of family owned dealerships in my community now they all have sold to large multi dealerships with dealerships all over the state the last couple of vehicles I've bought is drove a hundred miles to a larger town and buy from family owned dealerships
Very cool video.
The history is great.
Love the furnishings and appliances in the Grandmother's house. Amazing! Looks like the set of a 1950's TV show.
That car cleaned up and running well is worth double what the dealer paid.
it cost more than double to get it running well
@@thewriter2549that I very much doubt .
I love family owned dealerships. The roots grow deep. The family sold cars to families year after year. My first dealership was a 5th generation Cadillac Pontiac store. They started selling horse carriage sales. The owner Louie Speroels in Cumberland Maryland. He taught me all about sales. The guy I took his desk had been there 40 year. I was the youngest salesman ever. I got a new Pontiac GT EVERY 4000 MILES. WOW WHAT A BENEFIT. I MADE 65,000 BUCKS IN 1985 THAT WAS A BUNCH OF MONEY BACK THEN. RIP LOUIE I LOVE YOU FOR ALWAYS. NEAL
It is so refreshing to see such a kind appreciative attitude and genuine expression of love and appreciation from someone toward a mentor in 2023.
I recently settled with my aunts and uncle on my great grandpas 1957 Chevy 2 dr 150 sedan that he bought brand new. The cheapest 57 you could buy. No clock, no radio, straight 6 blue flame with 3 on the tree. 31,000 original miles a true survivor. I saved it in 1997 from a massive flood and been storing it inside since 2001. It’s nice to finally be the sole owner. It really needs to get back on the road. I should document the process on YT. I really enjoy these videos of restructuring this olds classics!!
I was waiting to hear how much it sold for.
I really enjoy the content from this channel. You learn so much, hear incredible stories & see some amazing cars! Thanks for sharing
Great video Mr Heasley. A friend of my grandparents, now a friend of mine restored/ pieced together a skyliner a few years ago. His is the black and white version, to me a car has to be something really special to put in the work and hours it takes to build a car with the intent to paint it black and have a laser straight paint job in the end but he pulled it off. The onboard system that operates all the the hidden linkages for the top on one of these cars is mind boggling but definitely worth the effort in the end. Glad to see you’ve documented a little bit of the history of this one, not only for us but for future generations. Always enjoy your videos and I really appreciate that these videos help keep pieces of motoring history alive for us and future generations. Great work sir. 👍
Thanks Lewis
What a great story! Surprised though that it had a 312 CID, but it makes sense. It's so good to hear the son refer with respect 'Sir' to the older gentlemen. Something that is hardly taught any more. It was required by both parents growing up, Mom from Alabama and Dad from Misissippi. Good luck to all.
It does.. I got a used 1956 Crown Victoria wagon from my dad who got it from a job he did (my dad and I used to do tile and linoleum) and that was a 312 Thunderbird engine.
Every 57 Ford I have seen had a 312 engine, before that a 292 engine
I drove a four door 1957 Ford to the University of Illinois where I was a student. It was blue and white and had a 292 engine. The only problem I ever had was a leaky valve cover gasket. 🤠
Meacham, you have a wonderfull spirit. It is obvious you are very pround of your heritage and have a great father and family connection to your heritaqe, work hard and enjoy your family and life. Great taste. regards Terry
I loved how you kept the story going to the end. Most "garage finds" like this would have ended when the car was loaded on the trailer and hauled away. But y'all wasn't finished yet. Very nice. What a great ending. And thanks to Paul Harvey, now we know the rest of the story.
Appreciate the credit Ben, yeah I waited 22 months to show what happened to the car. It just needed so much work to get going - rebuild the engine and top, brakes, fuel system, new upholstery and more.
This has Beef a Plesare to watch I was born in 1963 my Uncle owned one just like this I’m so Happy this 1957 went home was The lot That no was sold There is so much Historic Meaning to This Story I have Enjoyed was about the Car and Where It n has gone GOD BLESS YOU ALL
What a great story, and of course the car! Great to see that it is well taken care of.
My grandmother took great care of it, in theory on my uncle's behalf. I think she loved its style.
She loved her son and set him up like only a mother who loves with all her heart would. Could you imagine her plotting to buy a car for her boy and the smile it brought to her face? My mom got me the gift of music, a Fender bass that was way more than she could afford. Her love was something every boy in this world should have. It showed me women are to be treated with full kindness and honor.
I love old cars so much more character ❤
Beautiful car and home, there was a time when people had a one car garage.
Neutralize that rust on the rocker panel with some Ospho and don't touch anything else. Car Dealerships are a different breed of business. Not really relished by many folks. This Dealer broke the mold for me. I was elated to hear Mr. Sewell step up to the plate, not just for him but the Dealership as a whole. Any company that's been in the same business for that many years must be doing something right. And it shows!! Good on you Mr. Sewell!!
I clicked into this story by accident. Time well spent, excellent background on the Sewell dealerships. Thanks!
My mother had a 57 Ford 2 door with the Thunderbird engine. She very proud of that car. It was not a Skyliner but just a coupe. We would tear up the highway going to East Texas to visit my grand parents. Her next car was a 61 Galaxie 500.
Great 👍 story of the car!!!
Fantastic that’s its going back to the dealership !!!
Everyone will be abl
Hemming classic car magazine did an amazing story on these cars several years back, telling the entire story of the development. The electric motors by themselves was an interesting story. At the time, no one made compact motors with the power they needed. It was suggested that they used hydraulic cylinders to power the top using a centrally located pump. But one executive was adamant that it had to be an electric power top because if a hose broke a sprayer people with hydraulic oil......not a good thing.
My grandpa still has his 1957 fairlane 500 that he bought brand new while he worked at a ford dealer back in the day all black with three on the tree. It's his pride and joy people have tried to buy the car for years none have succeeded. Still looks like new with original interior. He's 88 now and hasn't been able to drive for a few years so in the summer I shine her up put him in the car and drive him around. It's a lot of work just to drive around the neighborhood but his smile the whole time makes it worth it
This sounds like a possible good story/video for this channel. If you are interested, please send me an email to jerryheasley@gmail.com
Glad to see young family member involved in classics. I always loved 57 fords.
Yeah, sure looks like he stepped into it. I hope the old man puts this kid to work & teaches him the real way of the world.
He's still in training, learning the rob and stick methods on how to beat you out of your money on a new or used car! From the looks of him he may not be shifty enough, so they'll let him dabble with the old cars.
54 year old in Australia .
Love love love the house and contents and of course the car .
My home is full of mid century stuff .
Just classic and so classy .
❤️❤️
Just watched till the end and HOLY SMOKE !!! The car is sooooooooooooo beautiful .
My 15 year old daughter loves old cars , I can see her wanting one when she starts to drive 😊😊
What a great looking car. . We have nothing like it in the UK. Its lovely to see that a dealership wanted to purchase the car. I would put it in the showroom. Not for sale, but to attract customers.
Fantastic story, thanks for sharing...
The hard top requires eight electric motors, operating in prefect sequence. They failed frequently, often while the top was in operation. It would completely immobilize the car. They sold few of them and it lasted only two model years. Which makes it rare and more valuable than ever.
This top required extensive work to operate.
Exactly! I think it was worth $40K myself.
Three model years- '57,' 58 and '59.
We didn't want to try the mechanism for just that reason! Although the last time I visited my grandmother (before moving abroad in 1990; she passed away a few weeks after I returned in 1993), she did put the top down for a drive around town. It was fabulous!
Nice to see history from my old home town of Odessa. Yeah, Sewell Ford has been there since before I was born, now 65. Love this old car.
The Car The contents of the House Just everthing about this👍👍😍😍😍
Sewell are top quality, could not go to a better place. Their customer service is legendary
Oldest Ford Dealer in the Country.... Ford Dealerships are a rarity now in some states, city's. My dad bought a 1969 Ford F250 from dealership here in Oakland called Broadway Ford, now an Audi Dealership. The town I grew up in Alameda had a dealership, Morris Landy Ford was there for 50 years, Hayward Ford long gone now also.
I had a 57 Ford too, but it was a rag top. White on Black, same 312 block with a Holley four barrel carb and a Mallery Mag-Spark ignition. Great car. But sold it when I went to Korea in Late 1962 with the US Army. Loved the video, thanks for posting.
My Grandma's sister-in-law had a basic '57 Ford 4 door sedan. The daughters husband and son were very excited about the car and took it from Minnesota to Louisiana. It's still in the family.
I am 79 years old and my sister 81 years old. In 1960 when my sister graduated from HS she went to her 1960 Prom with her boyfriend Andy. They were double dating with my sister's best friend Judy. Judy's boyfriend had just bought a used 1957 Ford retractable hardtop like this car. They arrived at our house to get my sister and Andy, Judy's boyfriend showed the whole neighborhood how the top lifted up and tucked away. The top was halfway open and stuck. Wouldn't go either way. They all went to the Prom in Andy's old Chevy. Life goes fast enjoy it while you can.
The top mechanism was very complicated and prone to malfunctions.
I've heard that was common for the tops to fail, having so many switches and levers. So, it's fun to hear real stories like this. Thanks. The early 1960s were interesting times.
That’s so cool!! They sure cleaned her up really well
That old car cleaned up way better than I expected. The entire story is pretty cool!
The car couldn't have gone to a better home...a huge dealership like Sewell has the resources to treat this car right, and it's good for the business. A win win as they say
Theyre only orginal once. I was surprised they replaced the interior until i realised the paint wasnt original so it wasnt a big deal. Having that original sales slip with the fathers name on it does give it a link to your family. I would park it in the showroom as an advertisng feature.
Just more proof that not all car dealerships try to rip people off. My hat is off to you.
🤣they have been robbing since 1935 according to the video!
That was a great story! So glad the original dealer got the car back and hope they display it proudly.
Amazing story and video. Thanks Jerry
6 years ago.... where has the time gone? Thanks for the follow up on such a special car.
I love the house just as much as the car
Let me know if you want to move to Odessa. We are cleaning up the house (keeping as much original as possible) right now and will be putting it up for sale this spring.
The SEWELL's have one of the best managed dealer group at all their locations. I have a special bond to them: although I am not a relative, their Grandfather, Dr.Julian Sewell delivered me into this World at Sewell-Long Hospital in Belton TX!!
That’s a beautiful car and a wonderful story.
I grew up just down the road from Odessa in Fort Davis, I’ve had family members buy there cars from dealership, great people, cheers on the find!
Great video! The young fella still has a few things to learn - like the difference between a LandCruiser and a 4Runner...
Retractable hardtop! Worth well over 50k. My uncle has restored several; was offered over a 100 grand for one of them.
I worked many years out of the Ford PDC in Carrollton and my father-in-law retired from there as traffic manager. Dealing with Sewell was always very pleasant, the who network of dealers were respectable. Dealing with Westway and Dub Richardson, totally different story. Nice video, congrats to the awesome people at Sewell.
Great story telling. Thank you to everyone involved in the making of this little bit of recorded history
Thats a great car for the antique car museum
👍👌👏 Oh WOW, simply fantastic! Of course I would love to own this car. Mainly because it's a convertible with a foldable metal roof.
Thanks a lot for making teaching explaining recording editing uploading and sharing.
Best regards luck and especially health to all involved people.
I still remember the day my dad came home in a brand new black on red 1956 Crown Vic 292 with three on the tree. It was the car I eventually learned to drive with, but by that time it had a T-bird 312 and three in the floor. He traded it for a 1964 Fastback red on red 390 with four in the floor. I would mow the grass, hoe the garden, and do a week's laundry just to get to drive that Fastback to town and back.
Excellent video Jerry! You always nail it and I look forward to seeing your work.
Thanks brother!
Great story. Props to the dealer for giving her more money, than she was asking.
Proper heritige for that firm there, great buy, very kind and astute.Great story.
Great story of wonderful history!
My uncle bob sold new fords for years, early 50's to 76 he said after the first-year model (57) those cars sold the word got out on how the electric motors on the top kept breaking down and sales slowed down 58, and by 59 they couldn't hardly give those cars away. Now there worth their weight in gold. James's Deans cousin (yes that James Dean) Marcus Winslow has A red and white one you couldn't touch for less than $65,000. - to $75,000. - You can see it every year at the James dean run in Fairmount In. This car was worth every bit of $30 to $35 K when it rolled out of the garage needing cleaned up, you got bamboozled lady.... Oh and it is at A new car dealership where everything on the lot is for sale, that car DOES NOT HAVE A HOME YET.. BUT IT WILL WHEN THE PRICE IS RIGHT.......
Beautiful storey and family.....I had a 1958 Chev convertible before going into the marines. Good times....
I was stoked that it went for what it did, but mostly that it went back to someone that is really going to drive it and take care of it. If Dena and I had a place to store it we would have kept it, for sure, but thanks to Jerry we'll always have the memory. I still want to drive it around now that it is renovavated (that was part of the spoken deal, although I don't really expect it from the Sewell's, it is their car now fair and square, and we thank them for taking care of it!)
Funny enough, I am finally back in the house to renovate it and sell it. Maybe I'll make a video of the restoration too...I'm sure it won't be as popular at this special car was.
Just want to say thanks to all the positive comments, it was a really special car for Dena and held lots of memories...and always will.
The GM, the head mechanic, and one of the owners.
Right back to the dealership it came from
Now that's ford family right there
Awesome video Jerry
No they stole it
You know I love a good story, Jerry - and a time capsule sitting in a garage since '57 will do just fine.
How the heck do you find out about these cars?
Sure glad you choose to share them!
- Ed on the Ridge
I've been hunting and writing stories on these barn finds for so long that I get calls. I have a passion for this. If anybody has one they want written up and made into a video like this, please call or email - jerryheasley@gmail.com and 806-236-3681
Great video just sad the grandmother kept all that stuff for years and the family is not going to keep it. Typical family, Just sell it and make money. I could never do that to my mom and dads stuff. I would of kept the car. One of the grandsons might want it someday.
@@jaysmith179 We kept furniture and keepsakes and items made by hand (by my grandmother and my uncle), but also sold quite a bit. And donated much more to benefit the nearby Petroleum Museum (where my uncle was a docent) and charities that my grandmother and uncle were involved with, as well as nearby schools. We would have kept the car, but none of us has a place to keep it indoors.