The Ford Model T proved two things to the motoring world. The first was that it was possible to produce a single platform with a bewildering array of body options that could potentially fulfill every need. The other is that simple and carefully considered engineering principles can yield a vehicle with admirable longevity. This 1925 Model T demonstrates the latter, being only a few years away from clocking up a century on our roads. It was restored approximately five years ago in Huckster form, and the attention to detail is admirable. The seller purchased it a year ago, but changed circumstances mean it needs a new home. Therefore, they have listed this stunning Ford exclusively with us here at Barn Finds Classifieds. This gem is located in Okatie, South Carolina, and while the seller set their price at $23,000, they may consider sensible offers.
The previous owner located this Ford as a derelict, long forgotten, on a Vermont farm. They stripped the “T” to a bare frame before restoring it to its current form. The attention to detail is incredible, with the result worth the time and effort. The steel panels were returned to a pristine state before being coated with Black paint that reflects its surroundings like a mirror. The cab and bed have been fabricated from solid oak, with the main cab panels painted Green, while the bed and roof are beautifully varnished. There is no evidence of rot or other problems, which is unsurprising considering it spends its time in a dry garage between occasional outings to parades and local shows. The sliding doors are lockable for security, and the glass is spotless. However, you must scrutinize the supplied photos to realize the incredible attention to detail in this build. The Gold pinstriping isn’t adhesive or vinyl but is hand-painted by someone with a steadier hand than mine! The same is true of the canvas curtains, which are works of art that wouldn’t look out of place hanging on the walls in someone’s home. The trim looks immaculate, and there are no issues with the wheels.
This Huckster’s drivetrain is genuine Model T fare, with the 177ci flathead four sending 20hp to the rear wheels via a two-speed planetary transmission. Henry Ford strongly believed in simple engineering, which is why so many of his creations remain in active service. He fervently believed that Model T production could have gone on indefinitely, even though the company’s competitors offered more modern and refined cars. He resisted the development of this car’s successor, only conceding defeat when it became apparent that other manufacturers were closing the sales gap to Ford. This Huckster is in excellent mechanical health, having only clocked limited miles since the restoration ended. It has no apparent needs and is ready to head to a show or Cars & Coffee with a new owner behind the wheel.
This Ford’s interior holds no surprises, with the seat sporting an immaculate Black cover and the timber floor hidden below a rubber mat. The gauge and switch cluster is spotless, and there is no appreciable wheel wear. The painted surfaces are excellent, with the beautiful varnished roof timber worthy of particular note. The builder resisted the temptation to modify the interior or install aftermarket additions. It represents motoring at its most basic, but it is this straightforward approach that has allowed these classics to survive so well.
Ford changed the automotive landscape with the Model T. At the peak of its power, over 50% of the cars traveling the planet’s roads carried the Ford badge. Sales volumes had begun to drop towards the end, and while Henry Ford resisted change vigorously, even he had to bow to the inevitable. Sales may have declined, but many people lamented the passing of a car that had brought transport to the masses. It is this affection that has seen so many of these classics survive and what prompts people like this Huckster’s former owner to return the vehicles to their former glory. The hard work is complete on this 1925 beauty, and all it needs is a new owner to slip behind the wheel to appreciate all it offers. Could that person be you?
How hard would it have been to include photos of the whole truck?
Adam, great write-up on a beautiful piece of automotive history. Very cool!
Picture this… An elderly and portly man with a handlebar mustache and pin-striped suit. Holding up bottles of elixir with his “personal guarantee to cure what ails you”. Cast iron pots and pans serve as his backup should the “elixir” not get the crowd to part with their hard-earned cash… Welcome to the Twilight Zone. Just my take on this really cool and collectible antique.
Museum quality. I’d be hard pressed to convince the Wife that it’d make a practical Daily driver. Have to pass on this one.
Tear off the back and install a 16 foot Airstream trailer.