Richmond Model A Club Keeps Century-Old Fords Cruising

Old Dominion Model A Ford Club members gathered in the Greater Richmond area to showcase their classic vehicles. The group focuses on maintaining the Ford Model A, a car that followed the Model T in production. Dennis Stone, the club president, said he enjoys seeing the smiles on attendees' faces. He noted that one woman hanging out a window waved at the passing cars.

The Ford Motor Company introduced the Model A as a step up from its previous model. Henry Nelson, the club secretary, pointed to a newspaper advertisement from December 1927. That ad announced the arrival of the new vehicle. Ford produced approximately five million Model A cars between 1927 and 1931. Only a fraction of those vehicles remain on the road today.

The cars were built with fewer features than modern vehicles. Stone said most models lacked radios, air conditioning, and power brakes. He described the driving experience as bare bones. The vehicles were among the cheapest on the market during their production years.

Despite their age, the cars include several innovative features for their time. Nelson explained that the Model A came standard with an electric start. Drivers did not need to use a crank to start the engine. The cars also featured brakes on all four wheels and shock absorbers. An oil dipstick allowed owners to check fluid levels without getting under the vehicle. Internal gauges let drivers monitor their speed.

Stew Wolfe, the club vice president, said the cars generate excitement from people of all ages. He noted that passersby get excited when they see the vehicles. Wolfe said the reaction is even stronger when the drivers use the ahooga horn. Kids are particularly ecstatic about the sound.

The club hosts events to keep the community connected to these historic automobiles. Members share their knowledge of the vehicles' history and mechanics. The gatherings allow owners to display their cars and interact with the public. The group works to ensure the engines continue running for the next century.