Feature] [[ Feature
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Dennis Carpeneter’s facility isn’t just a showroom, it’s a step back in time.
Concerning the Restoration of a Classic Car BY PAMILLA TOLEN
W
hen Henry Ford rolled out the Model-T car in 1908, America was smitten. In 1908 the cost was $850, but by 1917 Henry Ford had cut production time and manufacturing costs significantly, which enabled the car to sell for only $260. The Model-T not only was the first car that was low enough in cost for an average person to purchase, it also allowed people to travel farther and faster than ever before. The fascination quickly spread across the United States and by 1925 over 2 million cars were being produced annually. As cars got older, restoration enthusiasts emerged with a vengeance and passion. The hobby grew as the desire to protect and refurbish old classics became more and more popular. In 1935 the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) was formed with 14 founding male members and one female. National meets and tours developed and membership increased from 850 in 1948 to over 50,000 members by the AACA’s 50th year
12 | Cabarrus Magazine
An original INDY-style race car fully restored by Dennis Carpenter.
