Any group of vintage car or truck lovers will eventually tackle this subject of conversation: the future health of our hobby and how many young people are involved with older cars and trucks. Businesses that manufacture parts are, understandably, even more curious to know about the buying habits and interests of the next generation. Since old trucks are a bit more affordable than Deuce coupes, they often allow an enthusiast to build auto equity with a lower entry fee. A little coaching from experienced friends and relatives is all these next-generation car nuts need to prove they’re ready to carry on their own love affairs with vintage vehicles.
Edward Lipowicz IV of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and his cherry 1940 Ford pickup came to our attention in Lincoln, Nebraska. As we were taking a few event photos, a family friend mentioned how Ed was only 18 years old. Our first thought was that someone had likely parented the very well-built project 1940 most of the way, but testimony from friends and family didn’t support our assumption. We also learned a little about the Lipowicz family’s values. Wise fathers try to impart lessons in responsibility and sacrifice when their sons reach the age of want-ing their own wheels, and this project was just such an opportunity—plus quality father and son time.
A rusty hulk of a 1940 Ford, minus the bed and rear fenders, was found somewhere in Kansas for $500. The grille (and everything else) was trashed, but the long-forgotten 1940 must have sent out some kind of vibe to the then 15 ½-year-old Ed. Otherwise, it’s doubtful this project would have ended with such wonderful results.
Fortunately, the Lipowicz family has friends who have demonstrated their personal love of old cars by building their own. These friends offered to lend a hand when the task required more experience or finesse than Ed might have provided—like painting and upholstering. As the project progressed, Ed discovered how much he enjoyed the hands-on use of tools. He liked it so much he is now seriously considering making his involvement with old cars permanent by choosing it as his career.
If that’s the case, old-timers shouldn’t worry about the future of our hobby. It will obviously continue to evolve (barring restrictive legislation) and will continue to be based on personal taste and economics. The next generation will bring as much desire and dedication to the hobby as the last generation. Their cars and trucks may not look exactly as we might imagine them, but that’s OK—ours didn’t look like our fathers’ either.