Volume 18 Issue 12 December 1, 2018

William Clay Ford’s Beautiful Mark II

An interesting story about a very fine car

This story originally appeared in Hemmings Classic Car, September 2016 issue and was written by Thomas A. DeMauro. William Clay Ford Sr. was settling into his new position heading up Ford's Special Welcome to the Product Operations in the summer of 1952, but the idea of developing a new Continental Northstar News, the had occupied his mind for the previous two years. Comprised of stylists and engineers, this new group explored the viability of bringing a new Continental to market. monthly publication of Developed from concepts that Ford (William's father) had gathered for build- the Northstar Region ing his personal car while on a European trip, the first Continental wasn't originally con- of the Lincoln and ceived as a production model. Once it became one, it still was never intended as a profit Continental Owners center. Instead, the Continentals of 1940 to 1942 (25 were built in 1939) and 1946 to Club. We value your 1948 were halo vehicles that had added prestige to Lincoln and its parent company, Ford. They were revered by their owners and by those who aspired to the privilege of owner- opinions and appreciate ship. your input concerning None of this was lost on William or other members of the group; which included this newsletter and the Chief Stylist John Reinhart, Assistant Chief Stylist Robert McGuffey Thomas, Chief operation of the club. Body Engineer Gordon Buehrig and Chief Engineer Harley Copp, among others. They This is your club. all felt a responsibility to ensure a new model that wore the Continental badge wouldn't

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This Issue Contains

Feature Story 1 Directors Message 3 Club Information Page 4 Northstar Monthly Board Meeting Minutes 5 Editors Message 2 Welcome Wagon 12 Trivia 2 North Star Events 15

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Trivia from the Editors Message December 2018 Internet Gentle readers….. We have almost come gion something special. You can make my job full circle, soldiering our way through another a little easier by sending me something to edit year. Some of you may remember the old TV and print. Our members really do want to hear series; You Are There… which featured your story. “those events which altered and illuminated There are rumors afloat that Lincoln is your life.” 2018 had a little of that for each planning on discontinuing their sedans, the one of us, some not so good, but most were MKZ and the Continental within the next year the best. or two. The Conti- The North nental came out in Star club had a flurry of public- some nice events. ity and excitement We had a good and then it was selection of eating promptly forgot- establishments ten. Ford and by this past year that extension Lincoln featured some of has forgotten how the best food ever. to build and mar- Roy Linwood Clark Some say that the ket a luxury auto- mobile. Continen- American Musician Army travels on its Sweet Olga is lamenting the fact that today’s 1933 - 2018 stomach, we Lin- tal sales are down coln folk will go Lincolns do not come with pretty wide whitewall to only a few hun- tires and do not have the classic Lincoln appear- Roy Clark was an the extra mile to dred a month, not ance. Center opening doors would make for a nice enough to sustain American singer and search out good food. And that we look too. Anyone at Lincoln listing to a young continued produc- musician. He is best did. girl’s plaintive plea. Perhaps a few of these tion looking for- known for having Our high point changes would help sell more Lincolns. ward. It is hard for hosted Hee Haw, a na- was the LCOC me to imagine that tionally televised Mid-America meet this past July. Our most in a country of over 300 million people, Lin- country variety show, glorious leader, Bob Johnson, got us all prop- coln cannot figure out a market plan and a erly motivated and organized and by hook or vehicle good enough to be able to sell around from 1969 to 1997. crook we managed to pull of a really good 100,000 units per year. Perhaps it is time to Clark was an impor- meet, surpassing both the Eastern National throw out the bean counters and put people tant and influential Meet and the Western National Meet. We had who know the great heritage of Lincoln and figure in country mu- organized two really fine tours and we want to can figure out how to translate that into a car sic, both as a per- give our sincere thanks to our friend, Morrie that can be built and sold in today's market. I do have a 2017 Continental, and it is truly one former and helping to Wagener; who so graciously opened up his doors to his wonderful car collection. Much of of the finest cars that Lincoln has turned out. popularize the genre. our success was due to that one event alone. It But, sadly not enough other people feel that During the 1970s, will be hard for us to replicate the success of way and sales are languishing. It is a car that Clark frequently guest- this one meet in future years. These events are people do need to drive to fully appreciate. It hosted for Johnny Car- all about people getting together and having a is a fine car, and it really is for those “who son on The Tonight good time. It is important that we never forget take the road less traveled.” this basic premise. If we forget this, we might In parting, I would like to pass on to each Show and enjoyed a 30 as well fold up our tent and stay home. and every one, be kind to one another. Stay in -million viewership for We have been doing well with our special touch with your good friends and relatives. Hee Haw. Clark was interest articles centering around our members Call or email them today and tell them that highly regarded and first cars. The stories to date have been good, you care very much. Life is so very short, and renowned as a guitar- and we look forward to receiving some more you need to do this before it is too late. Cher- ish those good memories, at the end of the day ist, banjo player, and from you folks. It does not have to be about a Lincoln, as there but a few of us that had a that is all that we have. And, consider making fiddler. He was skilled Lincoln for our first car. I do need articles a donation to an animal shelter near you. Our in the traditions of about either your first car or about your Lin- four legged friends give us so very much and many genres, includ- coln, either new or old to fill up the pages of ask for so little in return. For some of us, they ing classical guitar, this newsletter. Help me make it interesting are our very best and loyal friends. Season country music, Latin and fun for our readers. We are the only re- greetings to all and my best for the New Year. David and the very Sweet Olga…. (Continued on page 3) gion to have a monthly, mailed out newsletter. Our newsletter helps make our North Star Re-

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(Continued from page 2) music, bluegrass, and Directors Message by Bob Johnson December 2018 pop. He had hit songs as The Lincoln show season is now over. This is the a pop vocalist (e.g., time of the year that is tough to adjust to, park the car "Yesterday, When I Was for the winter and wait for spring. Thanksgiving is past, Young" and "Thank God and Christmas is fast approaching, but not as fast as this and Greyhound"), and summer went with all our great Lincoln activities. his instrumental skill Again, I want to thank everyone for helping me this had an enormous effect year. The hard work of Region Managers, Matt Foley, on generations of blue- Dave Gustafson, Roger Wothe, Jay White, Bob Roth, grass and country musi- Tom Brace, Bill Holladay, and Larry Sasse is greatly appreciated. Mary and I wish you all a Merry Christmas cians. He became a mem- and a Happy New Year. ber of the Grand Ole During the past year, my sixteenth as your North Star Region Director, I have real- Opry in 1987, and, in ized how many great and wonderful persons are in our club. With putting on the 2018 2009, was inducted into Mid-America National Meet in St. Louis Park, I was able to again visit with most of the Country Music Hall our members. It is because of each one of you as members participating in our events of Fame. He published that made this job fun. Our 2018 show was the biggest meet in LCOC for the year. Of his autobiography, My the 81 Lincolns registered for the event, our region had 49 cars and 91 members of the Life in Spite of Myself, in 167 persons that attended. 1994. The election for North Star Region Officers for 2019 was held at our November Clark was born April Board meeting November 1. Elected as officers for 2019 were Director Bob Johnson, 15, 1933, in Meherrin, Assistant Director Matt Foley, Secretary Roger Wothe and Treasurer Matt Foley. Virginia. He was one of Our Facebook presence continues to grow with likes up to 188 persons. Please five children born to check our Facebook page and contact Jay White if you have any suggestions for more Hester and Lillian Clark. items for Facebook. 2018 Pride and Joy articles were really lacking from you our members; Dave had His father was a tobacco to improvise with using old articles from past publications. For 2019, if you have al- farmer. He spent his ready written about your Lincoln, consider updating your article with what you have childhood in Meherrin done with the car and where you have went with it. Please help Dave out by sending and New York City, his him an article about your Lincoln. While we will continue to experiment with Face- father having moved the book, our monthly newsletter is our primary method of communicating with our mem- family to take jobs dur- bership. We are the only LCOC region that publishes 12 newsletters per year, and we ing the Great Depres- have been doing this since 2001. We want to provide a good experience for our mem- sion. When Clark was 11 bers, and we are depending on you folks to continue to send in interesting articles for years old, his family us to feature in our publication. So, write about your old or new Lincoln and send it off moved to a home on to us today. We really do need your help. First Street SE in the The Year-end Brunch at Dangerfield’s restaurant on November 11 was well at- Washington Highlands tended with 34 persons attending to enjoy an exceptional buffet. Karl and Sharon Flick neighborhood of Wash- were the winners of the 2018 Tim Purvis Car of the Year Award with a 1939 Zephyr ington, D.C., after his Custom. 2019 North Star Calendars published by Dave Gustafson and presented to all in attendance. father found work at the We will be kicking off 2019 with a Sunday Brunch at Dehn’s Country Manor, Washington Navy Yard. 11281 Fernbrook Lane North, Maple Grove Sunday, January 27, at 11:30 a.m. This Clark's father was a semi will be a breakfast menu with Ala Carte pricing. Please come and enjoy a great break- -professional musician; fast and see all your Lincoln friends that have not turned into snow birds. who played banjo, fiddle, Our February event will again be the CCCA Potluck/Auction, at the Firefighters and guitar and his Museum, 664 22 Avenue NE, in Minneapolis on a Saturday, in the middle of February. mother played the piano. A firm date will be in the January issue. The first musical instru- As always keep the journey continuing in our marvelous Lincolns, see you all in ment Clark ever played 2019. was a four-string cigar (Continued on page 5) Bob and Mary Johnson

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Board Of Directors - 2018

Title Name Phone Numbers email Term Ends Regional Director Bob Johnson H(651)257-1715 [email protected] 2041

H(952)473-3038 Secretary Roger Wothe [email protected] 2020 O(952)583-5339 Treasurer Matt Foley C(612)280-4930 [email protected] 2019

Activities Director Jay White H(612)559-3219 [email protected] 2018

Director Bob Roth H(763)475-1429 2018

Publications/ Dave Gustafson H(952)435-1919 [email protected] 2019 Membership

Director Tom Brace H(651)644-1716 [email protected] 2019

Director Bill Holaday H(763)402-1171 [email protected] 2020 Director Larry Sasse H(952)440-5024 [email protected] 2020

Members and guests are welcome to attend the Board Meetings. Our meeting location, unless otherwise specified, will be held at Bloomington Lincoln in their conference room. Meeting time will be 6:30 pm on the first Thursday of each month, except December.

Articles and other information for the newsletter should be sent to David Gustafson, Editor, at 308 Brandywine Drive, Burnsville, MN 55337. email: [email protected] William Clay Ford’s Mark II continued...

(Continued from page 1) tarnish the reputation of those that came before it. According to company literature, they asked themselves, "What did the original Conti- nental have that made it so endearing?" They determined it, "filled a gap in the passenger car market by offering a vehicle whose beauty lay primarily in its honesty and simplicity of line ... the concept of the original Continental had stood the test of time, and this is be- cause of its sound proportions and the functionalism of its design." Thus, the group's styl- ing strategy would be coined "Modern Formal," defined as, "functional, enduring design, emphasizing an air of distinction and elegant simplicity." Development of the Mark II also included the philosophy of low, long and wide, and by the end of 1952, the gen- eral overall proportions of the car were confirmed. A styling contest included four outside automotive designers, as well as, those from inside the company. In May of 1953, the entry from John Reinhart was chosen as the winner. The long hood, short deck, crisp lines and clean flanks of Reinhart's captivating creation aptly fit the intended design direction. The concept then progressed though scale models to full-size clay, and plaster. Final approval came in late September 1953. In October of 1953, Special Product Operations became the Special Product Division and in October of 1954, William Clay Ford announced that the Continental would be produced and the Special Product Division would be- come the Continental Division (separate from Lincoln), and remain under his direction. By December 24, 1954, a handmade prototype Mark II was ready for testing. The production 1956 Mark II was released in October of 1955. It was built in its own plant and employed pains- taking assembly procedures. According to company literature, every engine underwent dyno testing more than once in the car's assembly process. The bodies were pre-assembled and checked for proper fit. Then they were disassembled (Continued on page 6)

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(Continued from page 3) box with a ukulele Northstar Monthly Board Meeting Minutes neck attached to it; which he picked up in elementary school. November 1, 2018 Hester Clark taught his son to play guitar BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING when Roy was 14 years old and soon Regional Director Bob Johnson called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. at Bloomington Clark was playing Lincoln. Board members present were Bob Johnson, Dave Gustafson, Jay White, Matt Foley, Bill Holaday, and Roger Wothe. Tom Brace, Bob Roth, and Larry Sasse were banjo, guitar, and absent. Other Region member present were Mary Johnson and Sweet Olga. The minutes mandolin. "Guitar was of the previous meeting and the agenda of this meeting were approved. my real love, though," Clark later said. "I DIRECTORS’ REPORTS never copied anyone, but I was certainly Regional Director Bob Johnson nominated the following for the election of officers for influenced by them; 2018: Director, Bob Johnson; Assistant Director, Matt Foley, Secretary, Roger Wothe especially by George and Treasurer, Matt Foley. A white ballot was presented for the election of the above Barnes. I just loved his officers and was passed unanimously. Bob also suggested that the membership applica- swing style and tone." tion be added to the Facebook page. The year-end brunch will be at Dangerfield’s in Clark also found inspi- Shakopee Sunday, November 11, 2018. A January Brunch was not scheduled. As usual, ration in other local there will be no Board meetings in December. Bob announced that he has retired from D.C. musicians. "One of the Lincoln and Continental Owners national board. the things that influ- enced me growing up Treasurer Matt Foley reported the treasury balance to be $3,792.73 with all bills paid. around Washington, Publications and Membership Director Dave Gustafson reported that one new member D.C., in the '50s was joined in the past month. He also reported that longtime member, Mardy Petersen, had that it had an awful recently passed away. He also needs more “My Pride and Joy” articles. lot of good musicians. And I used to go in Activities Director Jay White announced that he had 188 “likes” to his Facebook page. and just steal them He will add the membership application to the page. blind. I stole all their licks. It wasn't until There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:57 p.m. The next Board years later that I meeting will be at Bloomington Lincoln Thursday, January 3, 2019, at 6:30 p.m. found out that a lot of them used to cringe Respectfully submitted by Secretary Roger Wothe. when I'd come in and say, 'Oh, no! Here comes that kid again.'" As for his banjo style, Our very best to you, our members for the holiday season. Clark said in 1985, We all look forward to seeing you in the New Year. "When I started play- ing, you didn't have Your North Star Board of Directors… many choices to follow and Earl Scruggs was Bob Johnson, Jay White, Bob Roth, Roger Wothe, Matt both of them." Clark Foley, Larry Sasse, Tom Brace, Bill Holaday and David won the National Banjo Championship Gustafson….. in 1947 and 1948, and (Continued on page 6)

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(Continued from page 5) briefly toured with a More Mark II band when he was 15. Clark was very shy (Continued from page 4) V-8 produced 285 horsepower, and 402- and turned to humor with the body parts numbered specific to lb.ft. of torque was transferred through the each one and were painted as a group with Turbo-Drive three-speed automatic trans- as a way of easing his multiple "double-coats." Each coat of mission to a Hotchkiss differential with timidity. Country- paint was baked, and hand sanded before 3.07 gears. Unequal-length control arms, western music was the next coat was applied. Even the wheel coil springs, ball joints, and an anti-roll bar widely derided by covers were hand assembled; over 40 in- were up front, leaf springs were in the Clark's schoolmates, spectors oversaw production at the plant. rear, and temperature-sensitive shocks, 12- leaving him socially High-quality materials were also inch drum brakes, and tubeless whitewall isolated. Clowning sourced. The body sheetmetal was hand- tires comprised the chassis. around helped, he felt, selected at the supplier prior to shipping The heightened attention to detail and helped him to fit in to the plant. Leather was imported from upmarket styling and materials com- again. Clark used hu- Bridge of Weir in Scotland for the uphol- manded a premium price to match at close mor as a musician as stery, or a selection of upscale cloths to $9,700 in 1956 and $10,000 in 1957. well, and it was not could be specified. Both were available in Except for the 1957 Eldorado Brougham, until the mid-1960s various colors and could be used together. the Mark II was considerably higher in that he felt confident Improved plating techniques provided price than the --its market target. more durable chrome trim. All Mark IIs Each Mark II also took much longer to enough to perform in were subjected to rigorous road testing build compared to the company's other public without using prior to delivery to Lincoln dealers. offerings. humor in his act. Popular Mechanics tested the Mark II The D.C. area had and concluded that it did live up to its lux- a number of country- ury status in fit, finish, and equipment. It western music venues was deemed very comfortable from the at the time. Duet acts driver's perspective. It handled well for its were in favor, and for size, and power was satisfactory. The his public performance owner's report lamented that ingress and debut Clark teamed up egress from the passenger compartment with Carl Lukat. Lukat was difficult and noted some other quality was the lead guitarist, quibbles. The upright placement of the and Clark supported spare tire at the leading edge of the trunk, him on rhythm guitar. which fit into the stylish raised tire cover in the decklid, was also called out for re- In 1949, at the age of ducing trunk space and making loading 16, Clark made his tele- cargo awkward. Regardless, many Mark II vision debut on WTTG, owners raved about its styling and ride and the DuMont Television The Mark II was lavishly equipped, embraced its exclusivity. Network affiliate in leaving A/C as the lone option. Standard Our featured model was originally Washington, D.C. At were power steering, brakes, front seat, assembled with Deep Blue exterior paint 17, he made his first door windows and vent windows, an AM and a combination of blue and natural tan appearance on the radio and a heater. Also included were leather interior. It was built on a rush order Grand Ole Opry for gauges for oil pressure, coolant tempera- for Mrs. John Olin, wife of the chairman having won his second ture, amps and fuel, a 140-MPH speed- of the Olin Mathieson Chemical Corpora- national banjo title. ometer with a trip odometer, a 5,000 RPM tion. In 1968, William Clay Ford acquired By this time, he had tachometer and an electric clock. The in- it from the Olins and modifications came begun to play fiddle terior and trunk were fully carpeted and a soon thereafter. It went to Ford Engineer- and twelve-string gui- nameplate on the center of the floor in the ing, where a new Mark III 460-cu.in. V-8 passenger compartment had the owner's and C6 automatic transmission were in- tar. He toured the name engraved on it. stalled, requiring modification to the frame (Continued on page 7) Under the hood, a Lincoln 368-cu.in. (Continued on page 7)

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(Continued from page 6) country for the next 18 Mark II Continued months playing backup (Continued from page 6) possess the three Mark IIs that were once guitar for David near the front of the transmission tunnel, owned by Edsel Ford's three sons, Ben- "Stringbean" Akeman, and the engine and transmission mount son, Henry II, and William. Annie Lou and Danny, areas. The original two-piece driveshaft In the early 1980s, Rick's grandfather, Lonzo and Oscar, and was modified, and a 1969 Lincoln rear Al, had the opportunity to ride in his Hal and Velma Smith end was installed. brother-in-law, Jim Smith's, Continental during the week, work- Mark II; which had been owned by Ed- ing county fairs and sel's wife and the mother of Benson, small town theaters. On Henry II, and William. He was so im- weekends, these acts usu- pressed with it that he decided he wanted ally teamed up with one. His son, Jim Schmidt, called his country music super- friend Roger Hayman, a member of the Lincoln and Continental Owner's Club to stars like Red Foley or help in the search... and this is what they Ernest Tubb and played Since the original dash tach was ca- came up with--William Clay Ford's own large venues in big cities. ble driven, the 460's distributor was Mark II! The owner at the time was fellow He earned $150 a week modified to accept it. The cooling, elec- club member, Gene McNeilage, of Dear- ($1,526 in 2017 dollars). trical and air conditioning systems were born Heights. At the age of 23, also revised. Despite its worn paint and interior, Al Clark obtained his pilot's The exterior was repainted in Hono- bought the Mark II, and after some work certificate and then lulu Blue using multi-stage pearl Inmont by his son, he enjoyed it for about a dec- bought a 1953 Piper Tri- acrylic lacquer as an homage to the De- ade. Rick explains, "McNeilage passed Pacer (N1132C); which he troit Lions, the pro football team that along documentation that had been pro- flew for many years. William owned. Expanding on the Lions' vided by Mr. Ford's executive assistant, This plane was raffled theme, the interior was recovered in do- George Haviland; which outlined the his- off December 17, 2012, to mestic leathers in Honolulu Blue and tory and modifications to the car." It also benefit the charity silver, while retaining the factory uphol- included copies of the original production stery pattern. order and the Michigan title in William Wings of Hope. He In 1974, the Mark II was delivered to Clay Ford's name. owned other planes, in- Desert Classics in Nogales, Arizona, cluding a Mitsubishi MU where it was dismantled and restored. -2, Stearman PT-17, and After stripping the body and making any Mitsubishi MU-300 Dia- needed repairs, it was repainted in Hono- mond 1A business jet. Af- lulu Blue. Proper Bridge of Weir leather ter the tour, Clark re- in Honolulu Blue and silver was used to turned to performing at reupholster the interior, again in the local country-music ven- stock Mark II pattern. The frame was ues. He recorded singles further modified to improve the mount- for Coral Records and 4 ing of the transmission, and the A/C Star Records. compressor was moved to the opposite Rick continues: "We also own a 1980 Rising country music side of the engine. A breakerless ignition Mark VI that was originally built for Wil- star Jimmy Dean asked system, disc brakes, and electric wind- liam--also Honolulu Blue with numerous shield wipers were also installed. custom touches from the factory. We pur- Clark to join his band, Rick Schmidt and his father, Jim, chased it from Dom Pacitti; who had a the Texas Wildcats, in proprietors of National Parts Depot, a long career as a Ford illustrator/artist. At 1954. Clark was the lead supplier of restoration parts for various the time Dom purchased the Mark VI guitarist and made ap- make and model vintage vehicles, are from Mr. Ford, the Mark II was also avail- pearances on Dean's also well-known car collectors. They able, but Dom was unable to buy both "Town and Country house their expansive collection at their cars, so McNeilage eventually bought the Time" program on Ocala, Florida, location. The Schmidts (Continued on page 8) (Continued on page 8) 7

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(Continued from page 7) WARL-AM and on A Wee Bit More Mark II WMAL-TV (after the (Continued from page 7) mate $4,000 price reduction. show moved to television Mark II instead." Despite the negative economic im- from radio in 1955). "Fast-forward to 2016, Dom has re- pact it had on Ford, the Mark II suc- Clark competed in 1956 tired right here in Ocala, Florida. Re- ceeded in adding prestige to the compa- on Arthur Godfrey's Tal- cently, he came to visit, and he had with nies from which it came, through the ent Scouts, a variety him a set of the exact same documents seamless blending of restrained classic show airing on CBS. It for the William's Mark II that we had." styling with forward-thinking design ele- was his first network Rick relates, "The Mark II drives ments, the use of high-quality materials television appearance beautifully. With the high-compression and conscientious assembly and testing and he came in second. 460 engine, the power and torque are practices. And nearly six decades later, impressive, as is the smoothness of the Dean; who valued punc- those attributes remain evident from be- driveline--it cruises at interstate speeds tuality among musicians hind the wheel of a restored or well- without breaking a sweat. It's very road- preserved Continental Mark II. in his band, fired Clark worthy--tight, no rattles or looseness of Owner's View: In the mid-1980s, the for habitual tardiness in any kind. It tracks straight, rides smooth engine and engine compartment were 1957. Clark left D.C. and but not floaty. All things are relative, and restored, and the car was repainted. Then never lived there again. nothing from the '50s-era handles like in the mid-1990s, we had the interior During his D.C. years, modern cars do. But that said, the low completely restored, and the mechanicals Clark said he never in- center of gravity makes the Mark II go rebuilt, again with yet-another engine tended to be a country through corners with considerably less compartment do-over and some paint guitarist. Rather, he body roll than a comparable-era , touch-ups. Still dissatisfied with the over- played when he liked or . all quality of the work, in the early- and what made him feel "It's impossible not to admire the 2000s, we had Lloyd and Jeff Brekke of good, and never in- futuristic interior. In the '50s, it must Lloyds Auto Restorations in Bartow, tended to begin a re- have felt like you were a passenger in a Florida, perform a cosmetic restoration of concept car because it feels that way cording career or to per- the exterior and engine compartment, right up to the present day! And there's form on television. In the including all new paint, and the bright- no denying that driving down the road work/trim was restored. That's how this spring of 1959, Clark ap- with air conditioning blowing DOWN on Mark II is presented today. peared regularly on your head takes a bit of getting used to. George Hamilton IV's In this Mark II, the horn ring emblem has PRICE short-lived television se- William's 'WCF' initials in it; which Base price: $9,695 ries in Washington, D.C. really makes driving the car quite fun; Price as optioned: $10,290 In 1960, Clark went imagining yourself as William Clay Ford Options: Air conditioning, $595 out to Las Vegas, where Sr, driving to a Lions football game." ENGINE he worked as a guitarist For the following model year, Mark Type: Lincoln OHV V-8, cast-iron block in a band led by former IIs benefited from an additional 15 and cylinder heads West Coast Western horsepower and some other subtle im- Displacement: 368 cubic inches Swing bandleader- provements. Nevertheless, over its two- Bore x Stroke: 4.00 x 3.66 inches year run, just under or just over 3,000 comedian Hank Penny. Compression ratio: 9:1 examples were sold, depending upon the During the very early Horsepower @ RPM: 285 @ 4,600 source, and the 1960s, he was also promi- Torque @ RPM: 402-lb.ft. @ 3,000 lost money on each one. The Continental Valvetrain: Hydraulic valve lifters nent in the backing band Division was merged with Lincoln in Main bearings: Five for Wanda Jackson— mid1956, and William Clay Ford moved Fuel system: Four-barrel carburetor, me- known as the Party Tim- to corporate product planning and de- chanical pump ers—during the latter sign. Hence, Continentals would become Lubrication system: Pressure, gear-type part of her rockabilly much more Lincoln-like in 1958 with the pump period. introduction of the Mark III convertible, Electrical system: 12-volt During Jack Paar's coupe, and four-door. And they became Exhaust system: Dual with crossover pipe (Continued on page 9) much more attainable with an approxi-

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(Continued from page 8) temporary absence from President Truman’s 1949 Cosmo Convertible The Tonight Show in This story originally appeared in the March/ Inauguration. President Truman and Vice early 1960, Jimmy Dean April 1999 issue of Continental Comments President, Albin Barkley, rode in the 1949 was asked to guest-host and was written by William McElroy of Ritt- Lincoln Cosmopolitan convertible; which the program. Dean man, Ohio. later became known as 4-X. But if you asked Clark to appear on look at photographs of the Inaugural Pa- the last night of his guest rade, you will see that in addition to Lin- -host stint and show- colns, there are two 1938 Cadillac seven cased Clark in two songs. passenger phaetons and a 1948 Dodge Clark made his solo de- convertible. According to Cal Beauregard, but on The Tonight Show these two Cadillacs were in White House in January 1963. service until 1956 when they were re- Subsequently, Clark placed by two new Cadillacs. So evidently the White House did not get rid of all of its appeared on The Beverly Presidential Cosmopolitan Convertible Cadillacs per Truman's request. Hillbillies as a recurring After the Inauguration, 34 of the 35 open character — actually While campaigning for the presidential Ford products were returned to the Ford Mo- two, as he played busi- election in 1948, President Truman's staff tor Company, the Inaugural vehicle being nessman Roy Halsey asked a Cadillac dealership in Miami to pro- retained by the Secret Service to be used as a and Roy's mother, Myr- vide automobiles for the president's post elec• backup parade car and follow up car. This tle. Once, in an episode of tion vacation in Key West, Florida. vehicle was later modified with running the Sunday evening The dealership, like most of the country, boards. red fog lights, dual antennas, dual mir- Jackie Gleason Show believed that President Truman was going to rors, dual spotlights and inside grab handles dedicated to country be defeated in the 1948 election. The dealer- for the Secret Service agents while standing music, Clark played a ship did not want the public to associate them on the running boards, The electrical system blistering rendition of with a public official; who was thought to of the car was also modified to handle the "Down Home." Later, he become a loser in the upcoming election. added electrical radio equipment. It was the appeared in an episode Remember that even the newspapers were so Secret Service who named the car 4-X. convinced that Truman had lost they carried of The Odd Couple, where headlines of Dewey's victory. In fact, even he played "Malagueña." Truman went to bed on election night think- In the mid-1960s, he ing that Dewey had won. But earlier, Ford was a co-host (along with dealerships were asked to provide automo- Molly Bee and Rusty biles for the president's campaign and vaca- Draper) of a weekday tion visits. The White House turned to Lin- daytime country variety coln-Mercury and several Lincoln dealers in series for NBC entitled Florida. The Ford dealerships agreed to these "Swingin' Country;" requests. which was canceled af- The unwillingness of the ter two seasons. In 1969, family to provide cars during the campaign Clark and Buck Owens remained in President Truman's memory. were the hosts of syndi- After Truman's famous defeat of Governor cated sketch comedy pro- Dewey, the president told his aide, John Steelman, to have all General Motors Cor- gram Hee Haw; which poration products removed from the White aired from 1969 until House garage. Ford was then asked to sup- 1997 and propelled Clark ply 35 Lincoln and Mercury convertibles Inauguration Day Parade to stardom. During its for the inauguration ceremonies. President tenure, Clark was a Truman thought the 1939 Lincoln Sunshine Little is known about 4-X's life in pub• member of the Million Special to be outdated in its looks and lic service. It was retired in 1961 probably Dollar Band and partici- wanted a more modem look for the 1949 (Continued on page 10) (Continued on page 10) 9

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(Continued from page 9) pated in a host of com- More Cosmo Karl Wins Award edy sketches. In 1983, (Continued from page 9) Clark opened the Roy because President Kennedy did not want to Clark Celebrity Theatre be associated with such an old car. The car in Branson, Missouri; did spend some time at a used car lot, (Bill which was the "first Shier Motors) in Cleveland, Ohio and even- venue linked perma- tually ended up at Wards Auto Sales on nently to a widely Venice Avenue in Sandusky, Ohio. There known entertainer" in was an advertised auction to take place at the resort town. Ward's, and 4-X was one of the cars to be Clark frequently auctioned. Ford Sterling of Fredericksburg, played in Branson dur- Ohio was at the auction — 4-X went ing the 1980s and 1990s. through the auction unsuccessfully and was not sold. Mr. Sterling arranged for the pur- He sold the venue (now chase of 4-X after the sale. owned by the Hughes The Cosmopolitan convertible was taken Brothers and renamed to its new home in Fredericksburg, Ohio the Hughes American where is was driven occasionally until 1966 Family Theatre) and when it was last licensed. After that, 4-X re- Karl and Sharon Flick with the Tim Pur- went back to a light mained in Mr. Sterling's barn - covered up on vis award for the best Lincoln shown in touring schedule; which the second level of the barn. Ford Sterling was 2018 at a North Star event. usually included a per- a good friend of my family and we visited formance with Ramona Ford on many occasions. My first recollection Ten years ago, Gaye Purvis worked Jones and the Jones Fam- of seeing the big black Lincoln in his barn with the North Star Region to establish ily Band at their annual was in the early 1970s. I was four or five an annual award in memory of her late tribute to Clark's former years old at the time. The car remained there husband, Tim Purvis. Tim was a crafts- Hee Haw co-star until Mr. Sterling died suddenly in 1992. I man without peer and was known for the Grandpa Jones in Moun- purchased 4-X from the estate. quality of his work in the many restora- After six months of repairs, 4-X was tion projects that he was involved in. The tain View, Arkansas. once again on the road, New tires. fuel lines, work that he did on his yellow Model K In 1960, Clark began brake lines, brake shoes, brake cylinders. coupe, his blue Mark II and his custom touring with rockabilly window and top cylinders, hydraulic lines, 1941 Continental Coupe is still remem- star Wanda Jackson and help, hoses, battery arid radiator repair. ex- bered ten years after his passing. playing backup instru- haust system and much hard work hand rub- This year, the North Star Region had mentals on several of her bing out the paint job. an easy choice for the car of the year. It recordings. Through In 1995, I rebuilt the engine and trans• was without a doubt, the magnificent Jackson, Clark met Jim mission due to oil leaks. I then had a new top 1939 Lincoln Zephyr custom owned by Halsey. Clark signed installed on the car and had the front seat Karl and Sharon Flick of Apple Valley, with the Halsey Agency; reupholstered. All the lights in the running Minnesota. While the Zephyr sedan is which represented him boards were broken and gone except one. one of the most eye catching designs, for the remainder of his From that one light, my father and I made a Karl worked hard to make it even better. career. During this pe- set of lights Like the originals and repaired Subtle, but elegant appearance changes riod, Jackson performed the running boards. The rest of the car is as it make this Zephyr really stand out from was. the pack. Under all that beautiful metal is at the Golden Nugget modern running gear which makes it an casino in Las Vegas. equal to the latest Detroit has to offer. Within two years, Clark Seeing is believing, and this car must be had become a headliner seen to be fully appreciated. in Vegas and he made Congratulations on receiving this numerous appearances award. We all await your next project, there in the 1960s and we are sure that it will be letter perfect. (Continued on page 11)

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NORTHSTAR NEWS

(Continued from page 10) Mardy Petersen Passes 1970s. Clark's backup work tinental sedan which had such very comfort- able leather seats — a true living room on for Jackson brought him wheels. to the attention of Capi- Our third Lincoln of note was a 1971 tol Records. He signed Mark III, triple brown with dark brown shag with Capitol and in 1962 carpeting; which was all the rage in the early released his first solo al- 70s. It too was a very fine car. bum, The Lightning Fin- One of the most noteworthy Lincolns in the gers of Roy Clark. The Petersen family was a 1973 Andy Hotton album won solid critical custom convertible. After dad purchased it, it underwent a complete restoration. It was a praise and "above- true show stopper and dad was extremely average" notice from proud of it. Black in color, with the top fans. By the early 1970s, Mardy and Milt Petersen at the 2008 down, it would really catch your eye. Even- Clark was the highest- Mid-America in Duluth, Minnesota tually, dad sold it, and it went on to a new paid country music star home in Norway. We understand that it is in the United States, This past November, we lost one of our well loved by its new owners; who are mem- earning $7 million long time North Star members, Mardy Pe- bers of the International branch of the Lin- tersen. Mardy, Milt Sr., and their son, Mil- coln and Continental Owners Club. ($44,100,000 in 2017 dol- ton Jr., were active in the North Star club Dad also had a 1978 Golden Diamond lars) a year. and were frequently seen at many of our Jubilee Continental. It had diamond chips in He switched to Dot club events. The whole family were great the oval opera windows and it was equipped Records and again conversationalist’s and enjoyed engaging with a citizens band two-way radio in the scored hits. He later re- others with interesting stories about many center console. I used to affectionately call it corded for ABC Records; different subjects, including Lincolns. a real “Cream Puff.” which had acquired Dot, Milt Jr. called and asked if we could A 1978 Lincoln Town Car proved to be make note of his mother’s passing in a a real workhorse for our family. Everybody and MCA Records, the forthcoming issue. Here is a short story called it the “tank’ with its Rolls Royce latter of which then was about the Petersen family and their Lin- styled grille. The last of the really big Lin- allowed to absorb the colns. colns, it served our family well and func- ABC label. “I should begin with our family’s ro- tioned as our truck, assisting in moving our Clark endorsed Mos- mance with Lincolns. The folks were stuff from time to time, holding as many as rite, Gretsch and Heri- among the first founding members of the 25 full apple boxes at one time. tage guitars, the latter North Star Lincoln club. At that time, Dick While spending winters in Florida for which produced a signa- and Bobbi Larson were President. We were many years, my parents bought a black 1990 active members for years until Dad’s health Town Car with a gray leather interior. It fit ture model. In the 1980s, made our attendance at various activities no in well and was in good company with a lot he served as a spokes- longer possible. My father is now 97 and of other classy Lincolns in South Florida. man for Hunt's ketchup. resides at a Plymouth nursing home close Mom and dad’s last car was a 1999 Clark married Bar- to Medicine Lake. We lost our mother, Presidential Series Town Car. It was a very bara Joyce Rupard Au- Mardelle, this past October when she elegantly looking sedan, complete with per- gust 31, 1957, and they passed away peacefully at home at the age sonalized plates that read “MILT SR.” Mom had five children. He of 92. My mother and dad had been mar- drove it for a few years after dad could no ried for 72 years. longer drive. It eventually went on to a new made his home in Tulsa, Throughout the years, our family has owner in Mexico when mom finally was Oklahoma, where the been privileged to own some very fine Lin- unable to drive.” Roy Clark Elementary colns. Among these were; We have missed getting together with School was named in his Our first was a 1966 , the Lincoln club members at various events honor in 1978. Chesterfield beige with a black vinyl roof and showing our wonderful Lincolns at By the early 1970s, and a parchment leather interior. It was a North Star shows. Our family got a lot of Clark had been named very classy looking car — a fine example pleasure from meeting other members and "Entertainer of the Year" of the Kennedy era Lincolns. exchanging stories with them.”. Second on the list was a 1973 Lincoln Con- three times by the Acad- (Continued on page 12) 11

NORTHSTAR NEWS

(Continued from page 11) emy of Country Music The Welcome Wagon and the Country Music NORTHSTAR WELCOME WAGON When you see the Stenders at a car event, Association (CMA) . The by Francis J. Kalvoda -- Willmar MN -- they may not be driving a Lincoln, but Academy also named 320-235-5777 – [email protected] they will be driving a classy car! him "Best Lead Guitar We survived a Thanksgiving feast, Player" and "Best Com- Black Friday, Cyber Monday and now edy Act," while the CMA looking forward to Christmas. Micki and named him an I hope your holiday celebrations will be "International Friend- peaceful and jolly. This month I am ship Ambassador" in pleased to introduce several new North 1976 after Clark toured Star LCOC members. Our first new member is Emily Tay- the Soviet Union. Stender’s 1990 Mark VII lor, 2811 West 90th Street, Bloomington, On August 22, 1987, MN 55431, 952-888-1723. Emily has The final stop for the Welcome Clark was made a mem- mostly driven and rode in quality automo- Wagon this month is back in Willmar, in ber of the Grand Ole biles. Her father drove and a driveway filled with clean vintage Opry. He played an an- Buicks. Her late husband bought Oldsmo- Chrysler products. It is the driveway of nual benefit concert at biles. Emily’s good friend drove Lin- Greg Gjerdingen, 711 Sixth Street SE, Longwood University in colns, and Emily liked everything about Willmar, MN 56201, 320-444-7894, Farmville, Virginia, the Lincolns; especially the customer service [email protected] (the G and n proceeds of which went received at the Lincoln dealer in Bloom- are silent in Gjerdingen: Jer di gen). to fund scholarships for ington. When her friend was going to Greg is a former student of mine, a for- aspiring musicians. trade in her 2007 Lincoln Town Car, mer Willmar Car Club president, the defi- Emily wanted to buy it. Emily enjoys her nition of a true automobile enthusiast, and Clark was inducted Lincoln and enjoys the care both she and a photographer extraordinaire. He has into the Country Music her Lincoln receive at Bloomington Lin- assisted with the New London to New Hall of Fame in 2009. On coln. Many of us know exactly how she Brighton Antique Car Run and is a good April 12, 2011, Clark was feels. Welcome to the North Star Lincoln friend who has never owned a Lincoln. honored by the Okla- family, Emily. But with your help, we can change that homa House of Represen- The next stop for the Welcome last part. Bob Johnson ‘discovered’ Greg tatives. He was honored Wagon is to meet Clarence and Kathleen when Bob saw Greg’s internet album of by the Oklahoma Music Stender, 14325 Highway 212, Norwood- photos of our July 2018 Mid-America Hall of Fame as Okla- Young America, MN 55368, 952-467- LCOC Meet. homa's Music Ambassa- 2883, [email protected]. Clarence and I have enjoyed Greg’s photos and Kathleen enjoy a variety of automobiles. friendship for years, and his first wedding dor for Children and pre- They continue to enjoy their 2004 Town shoot was in Bismarck for Micki and me sented with a commen- Car which they have had for several in 2012. dation from Oklahoma years. Governor Mary Fallin. They also have a 47,000 mile 1990 In 2007, he was inducted Bill Blass Edition Mark VII; which is for into the Cheyenne Fron- sale. The Mark VII was owned by a rela- tier Days Hall of Fame. tive and has always received the care a Clark died November Lincoln deserves. 15, 2018, at 85 at his The Stenders also have , Tulsa home due to com- Chevrolets and a GMC. 1965 Olds Jetstar plications of pneumonia. convertible, 1973 Olds 98 Regency four door hardtop, 1974 Olds 88 convertible,

1971 Impala convertible, 1972 Impala From the internet... convertible, 1936 Chevrolet Standard two door sedan with 36,000 miles (in the fam- Greg has ridden in every type of li- ily for over 60 years), 1950 Chevrolet censed vehicle made in the last 30 years, sedan (Clarence’s first car), and a 1949 and some over 100 years old. I will let GMC pickup (in the family for 60 years). (Continued on page 13)

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NORTHSTAR NEWS More Welcome Wagon Greg tell us how all of this happened: My Dad was interested in photography and helped me I grew up in Willmar, Minnesota. as a little car freak get started as a youngster. Of course, one of my favorite that continued for all of my life so far. I collected subjects was cars. I have such a broad interest in cars I be- Matchbox, Hot Wheels, and other little cars and then I came frustrated by the limitations of film cameras and ra- turned to building plastic model kits until I was 15 and tioning what cars to take pictures of and stopped bringing bought my first car a 1969 Toyota Corolla. Then I be- my camera to car shows. In 2009, I bought my first digital came busy working on the car or working jobs to keep camera for a Caribbean Cruise, and a monster was the car on the road. College kept me busy, but I still al- unleashed. No longer restricted to 36 images, I went crazy ways visited car shows and worked on my own car. My taking pictures at all sorts of automotive events and posting parents only had Ford and Chrysler products. I have had them on Flickr. I now have over 125,000 pictures a little broader mix of cars over the years. I lived in the (primarily of cars) posted on Flickr with over 43 million Twin Cities Metro Area for about 20 years (minus a cou- views. ple of years in Chicago). In 2001, I started working as a Greg is a member of many car clubs, and we are happy License Examining & Inspection Specialist at the West that he joined the North Star LCOC. Enjoy the Lincoln Metro Exam Station in Plymouth Minnesota My pri- ride, Greg! mary responsibility is to administer written and road tests for cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses. In 2007, I transferred and moved back to Willmar. I was able to be closer to my family, and it was easier and cheaper to keep my 1964 Imperial Crown Coupe and then add my 1980 Dodge St. Regis and 1978 Chrysler New Yorker.

Above, Greg’s 1964 Imperial Crown Coupe A very young Greg with his first sports car Below, his 1980 Dodge St. Regis sedan Since this is the last column of the year and wish lists abound, here are a couple photos that could define Christ- mas joy. The first is happy four year old Greg Gjerdingen with his first sports car; which brought miles of smiles to this young car enthusiast.

The second photo is a Lincoln Mark V wagon; which would bring miles of smiles to this Welcome Wagon col- umnist. This dream wagon has traded hands a few times since it was custom built for Wayne Newton. If Santa deliv- ers it, I would joyfully sing…. Danke Schoen!! More new members next year!! Stay happy and healthy! Greg’s 1978 Chrysler New Yorker sedan

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NORTHSTAR NEWS

My First Car

My first car as presented by Bob Roth. Manitowoc, Wisconsin and then back home to St. Paul. My first car was a 1952 Mercury Monterey Custom Yes, if you remember “recaps,” I blew all four and Coupe. It was blue in color. The picture with this story is had to replace each one. Of course, with brand-new tires. a file photo and not of my original car. I was done with “recaps.” This car was a very good car, and it continued to serve us very well until we bought our first new car in 1959. It was a Ford Galaxie 500 Sedan. The color was Tahitian Bronze exterior with Fawn Tan interior. I don’t know why I remember the color. I recently saw one at a car show and it was the first time since 1959. It really brought back memories. At the time, we bought this car, we were very much interested in the second year for the Thunderbird. The price was out of our budget, so we had to pass on the T-bird. The Bird had a base price of $3900 while the Ford Galaxie was $2582.00. Just a bit too much of a stretch for us in 1959. Yes, I eventually did get 58 T-bird years later — but, that’s another story. The 1952 Mercury Monterey Custom was consid- ered a medium priced luxury car by Ford at the time and I would have to say that that was true. It was bought from Quantrell Cadillac in downtown It had a 255 cubic inch engine and was rated at 125 St. Paul. I don’t remember the price. I was 22 years old horsepower with a 3 speed Mercury-O-Matic transmis- and had just been discharged from the army after finish- sion. It was a great value for the money and provided us ing my two year military obligation. with some very good transportation during the years that It may seem odd that I didn’t buy a car till I was we owned it. twenty-two, but I grew up in the “Selby/Dale” area of St. Paul; which was a “neighborhood” type area. You really didn’t need a car because you stayed in a five block area and if you needed to travel farther you rode the street cars. For 20 cents, you could go almost anywhere in the Twin Cities area. I would hand wash my car weekly and wax once a month. It is funny that I didn’t rub the paint right off the car with all the attention that I gave it. Every fall, I would use Simonize paste wax for the winter. It just had to be the shiniest, cleanest 1952 Mercury in the Twin Cities. I had this car when I met the “Love of my life,” Nan, in the fall of 1955. At the time, we were married two years later. In August 1957, I was working for Northern States Power in the Purchasing Department as a buyer. One commodity I bought was tires. At this time, a new process was available. RECAPS..they were about 1/3 the cost of new tires. I needed new tires for the hon- eymoon, so I purchased 4 “recaps” from the Firestone Tire store. We wound up taking a 1,100 mile trip through Madi- son, Wisconsin, through Chicago, onto the Ohio Turn- pike, to the Baltimore/Washington area, up to New York City, Niagara Falls, through Canada to Michigan, ferry- ing across Lake Michigan from Ludington, Michigan to

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Preview of Coming Events

December No North Star events planned for this month. Take some time to celebrate with your relatives and friends.

January Sunday Brunch on January 27 at Dehn’s County Manor, 11281 Fernbrook Lane, Maple Grove, Minnesota at 11:30 AM. A great breakfast menu

February CCCA Potluck/Auction, Firefighters Museum, 664 22 Avenue NE, in Minneapolis. More information in February issue.

For Sale

1990 Mark VII Bill Blass

Good condition, runs and drives great. 47K miles $5,000 — Call Clarence Stender, 952.467.2883 or Cell 612.247.4828

For Sale 1983 Lincoln Mark VI coupe. Nice red car with white top and white leather in- terior.. New exhaust, EGR valve, plugs, dist cap and wires. New valve cover gaskets. New tires. New fuel injector regulator. Runs and drives great. Nice paint and interior. 47,000 miles. $5,500.00. Jim Christenson 320-262-3288

BACK ISSUES OF THE NORTHSTAR NEWS ARE ALWAYS AVAILABLE ON THE NORTHSTAR LCOC WEB SITE. www.northstarlcoc.org Click on publications. Issues are in PDF format and may be printed on your color printer.

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North Star Activities

No activities planned for December to permit you to spend plenty of time with family and friends. Enjoy the holiday season and we will be back with a fresh slate of activities beginning with a January brunch to help all our members celebrate the New Year.

Members with ideas about events for 2019 should contact your North Star Board of Directors and let us know what you would like us to do. Keep in touch, we value your opinion.

Let us all get together to welcome in the New Year at our first event for 2019.

Sunday, January 27 2019 at 11:30 AM

Please join us at Dehn’s Country Manor, 11281 Fernbrook Lane, Maple Grove, Minnesota at 11:30 AM, Sunday, January 27 , 2019.

Not our usual brunch buffet, but a wide variety of menu choices will enable you to satisfy your hunger with very good food at a very reasonable price.

Upper Midwest Region of the Classic Car Club of America POT LUCK DINNER AND AUCTION Coming this February Date and Time in our next newsletter To be held at the Firefighter’s Museum 664 22nd Avenue NE, Minneapolis

North Star LCOC members are invited.

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