by hi-per al » 2005 Aug 23 Tue 9:23 pm
Howdy folks....Spokane was real interesting too say the least. I was told there was over 400 Studes in and around the show Hotel. Truly some awsome restorations as well as some of the most stunning Stude customs that I have ever seen. Celebrating the 50th year of the Speedster and there were probably 15 or so in attendance. There was only one Coupe Express and it was much modified using all type of updated Studebaker innovations from over the years. It was truly breath-taking!
I only saw 2 true Conestogas in the parking lot and show. Both 55's. One was an outstanding restoration belonging to Don Hagen of San Jose, Ca. Chatted with him once briefly and could not find him again to talk. The other was a very mild Goodguys Custom that was not modified body wise except for a very tasteful contemporary paint job, wheels and interior. Had a mildly modified 1954 232 c.i. powerplant with 3 speed O.D.. Very nice!
There was also an outstanding custom 1950 2 door Conestoga Woody wagon. Built off of a 4 door sedan base. The owner stated it was "One of None Made". For Sale 90K. Yowsa!
The swapmeet was a lttle underwhelming with probably a total of 30 to 40 vendors. When I asked for Conestoga bits I always got the same response...You must be kidding? The search for "OGA" goes on. The Stude Museum Auction had some very interesting lots with the crowd in the room bidding items to the max in the early going to do thier bit to support the cause. The auctioneer was painfully slow and after about 11 P.M. the crowd had thinned out to the point that there were some real bargains. They said that they raised well over $10,000 in support of the Museum.
I will try and get a few flix to Briz and see if he can post them.
G'nite....Al
Live your Dreams