When Henry Ford's 20 millionth car, a 1931 Model A, toured the U.S. it raised a stir wherever it went. A parade in New York, celebrated Ford's milestone vehicle, and the vehicle was awarded a license plate stamped "20,000,000." Henry Ford produced 15 Model T's, and just under 6 million Model A's.
The 20 millionth Model A has been stored in northern Michigan USA for about the past 40 years. It is now undergoing a full restoration prior to going on display at Ford headquarters as part of the company's 100 year celebration, slated for 2003
The Ford A made it's debut at the 30th annual Old Car Show and Swap Meet in Iola, Wisconsin on July 12th 2002. After the unveiling, the has been displayed at the MAFCA National Convention in Riverside and then at various events throughout the company's anniversary year in 2003 and beyond.
Both Henry Ford and Edsel Ford were present when the car rolled off the Dearborn Assembly Plant line
The 20 millionth Vehicle was thought to have been distroyed in a musuem fire late in the 1930's but was actually sold in the 1940's and taken to Michigan's upper peninsular where it sat in a garage until 2000.
Above: It was "moving day" in Aura when the 20 millionth Ford was transfered to a van that took it down state. A full restoration being the car's future.
Above: Henry Ford's 20 millionth Ford a 1932 Model A raised quite a stir where ever it went. A parade in New Yorke, below, celebrated Ford's milestone vehicle, and the vehicle was awarded a license plate stamped 20,000,000.
"This treasure of the company's legacy will not be lost again," said John Rintamaki, chief of staff, Ford Motor Company. "We are thrilled to have it back for
the company's 100th anniversary in 2003 and the opportunity to share it once again with Ford and antique auto enthusiasts"
Right: Turkey Topper - When the 20 millionth Ford arrived in Brady, TX USA the town's 20 millionth turkey was placed on top for this promotional picture. The milestone automobile was honored across the US, receiving the checkered flag at the Indianapolis Speedway, taking a trip to the bottom of Hoover Dam, and even being inducted into the Sioux Tribe.
Because of the vehicle's distinguished history, Ford agreed to finance the frame-off restoration with the agreement the Ford Company could use the vehicle for displays and exhibitions over the next ten years. During the full restoration process, which was handed by an expert in vintage automobile restoration, the serial number A20, 000,000 was uncovered. Further proof of authenticity came when the paint was stripped off where the lettering "TWENTY MILLIONTH" was found.
The 20 millionth Ford .... a Model A
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