1935 Studebaker President
Notable Studebakers representing a “first” and a “last” are currently on display in the Studebaker National Museum: The first 1935 President built at Studebaker’s Walkerville, Ont., plant, and a representative of the last Studebakers built before World War II military vehicle production overtook civilian vehicle production.
The 1935 Studebaker President convertible sedan is not only unique for its “first” claim, it also sports a custom aluminum phaeton body. This car has a known history back to the first owner, Capt. Evan Roberts, who purchased the one-of-a-kind car new from Jameson Motors in Victoria, British Columbia. This handsome Studebaker is now in the collection of Dr. George Vassos of Westfield, Mass., and is displayed in the museum’s Bullet Nose Gallery.
1942 Studebaker Champion Series 90 Club Sedan
Representing the “last” is the recently exhibited 1942 Champion Series 90 Club Sedan, a car built on Jan. 29, 1942 — just two days before Studebaker ceased civilian automobile production for World War II.
Due to wartime restrictions, Series 90 models were devoid of chrome and aluminum, and were nicknamed “blackout” models for their stark appearance and painted trim parts. This Studebaker Series 90 model, so named in honor of the company’s 90th anniversary, is exhibited through the courtesy of the DiSalvo family of Venice, Fla.
These two unusual Studebakers have temporarily joined the museum’s extensive collection of Studebaker automobiles, and its current special exhibits featuring the lifestyle and motorcycles of Harley-Davidson and a collection of eight recently conserved vehicles, including four presidential carriages. These displays run for a limited time, so call 888-391-5600 or go to www.studebakermuseum.org for the latest display information.
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