Richmond group keeps 1927-era Fords running for new generations

Drivers in the Greater Richmond area are keeping Model A Fords on the road through organized club events. The Old Dominion Model A Ford Club of Greater Richmond meets to ensure these vehicles remain operational and visible in local traffic. The group’s activities focus on maintaining the mechanical integrity of cars that were first produced more than 90 years ago.

Henry Ford introduced the Model A as a successor to the Model T. The transition occurred in December 1927, a date marked by newspaper advertisements announcing the new vehicle. Ford manufactured approximately 5 million of these cars between 1927 and 1931. Only a small fraction of those original vehicles remain in existence today.

The Model A offered several upgrades over its predecessor. Dennis Stone, president of the club, noted that most of these cars lacked radios, air conditioning, or power brakes. He described the driving experience as bare bones, citing the vehicle's status as one of the cheapest options on the market at the time.

Despite their age, the cars included features that were advanced for the late 1920s. Henry Nelson, the club's secretary, pointed out that the Model A came standard with an electric start. This replaced the manual crank needed to ignite the engine. The vehicle also featured brakes on all four wheels and shock absorbers. Drivers could check oil levels using a dipstick without getting under the car. Interior gauges allowed occupants to monitor speed.

Club members use the vehicles for public drives to showcase them. Stew Wolfe, vice president of the Old Dominion Model A Ford Club, said the cars generate excitement among passersby. He noted that people wave from their own vehicles. Wolfe added that children react strongly to the vehicle's ahooga horn. He described the response as ecstatic when the horn sounds during a drive.

Stone emphasized the social aspect of the gatherings. He recalled seeing smiles from attendees at recent meetings. One woman was observed hanging out of a window to wave at the group. The club continues to operate in Glen Allen, Virginia, maintaining a fleet of nearly century-old automobiles for members to drive and display.