5 million Model A Fords built, few survive for Greater Richmond club

Residents of Greater Richmond can see the classic vehicles rolling through local streets as the Old Dominion Model A Ford Club continues its work to maintain the historic cars. The organization focuses on the Model A, a vehicle Ford Motor Company introduced as a direct successor to the Model T.

Henry Ford designed the Model A to replace the earlier Model T. The company began production of the new model in 1927. An advertisement for the car appeared in local newspapers that month, signaling the arrival of the updated vehicle.

Ford produced approximately 5 million Model A cars between 1927 and 1931. Dennis Stone, the club president, noted that only a small fraction of those vehicles remain on the road today. The club works to keep the remaining engines operational despite the cars' advanced age.

The vehicles offered several features that were new at the time. They included an electric start system, replacing the hand crank used on previous models. The cars also featured brakes on all four wheels and shock absorbers. Henry Nelson, the club secretary, pointed out that the vehicles included a dipstick to check oil levels without crawling under the chassis. Gauges inside the cabin allowed drivers to monitor speed.

The cars lacked modern amenities like radios, air conditioning, and power brakes. Stone described the driving experience as bare bones. He noted that the Model A was the cheapest car on the market when it was new. The club members enjoy driving the vehicles, which often draw attention from passersby.

Stew Wolfe, the club vice president, said the cars generate excitement in the community. He noted that people react positively when the vehicles drive by. The reaction intensifies when the drivers use the air horn. Children, in particular, show strong enthusiasm for the sight and sound of the classic cars.

The club holds events that bring members and enthusiasts together. Stone described the atmosphere during these gatherings, noting the smiles on attendees' faces. He recalled a woman hanging out of a nearby window to wave at the cars. The club continues to operate in the Greater Richmond area, preserving the history of the Model A.