In 1936 Ford Motor Company produced 5,601 Convertible Sedans. Today, there are only 174 known to exist; 69 are slant back models – 1 of which is being offered for sale on October 12, 2009 at Gateway Gallery Auction.
This fine example of Ford craftsmanship is from the Estate of Robert G. Ritter of Chambersburg. Robert “Bob” Ritter was an ardent car collector and a devoted Ford fanatic. Born in New Franklin, Pa in 1929, he worked as a salesman for Hal Lowry Ford before starting his own Ford Dealership in Waynesboro.
Ritter’s brother, Kenneth remembers traveling (with his brother) to Philadelphia to buy the car in the late 1950’s or early 1960’s. Ritter did most of the restoration himself including rebuilding the engine. The 4-door convertible features a V8 engine, 3 speed transmission, an early banjo steering wheel and a slant back. The odometer reads 37,900 miles.
After evaluating the Ford, local antique car expert Doctor J. Stanley Stratton said “It’s a good solid car with a nice running engine and nice restoration. Overall the car appears to be in very good condition, not perfect, but very good.”
The Ford will be available for preview on Sunday, October 11 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM and will cross the auction block on Monday, October 12 at 6:00 PM.
Gateway Gallery Auction is located at 643, Kriner Road in Chambersburg. Auction information is available by calling 717-263-6512 or visiting the website www.GatewayAuction.com
