Support provided by:
The Case:
A man in Benicia, CA owns a 1932 Ford roadster that, upon purchase, had an engine too powerful for normal driving. Our contributor suspects his car was used for dry-lake racing, a sport that had its heyday in Southern California in the 1930’s, and 1940s.
In 1932, although America was in the midst of the Depression, Henry Ford forged ahead, designing a new model ’32 car with the first powerful V8 engine affordable to the masses. Was our contributor’s car among the popular hot rods raced out at the dry lakes?
History Detectives high-tails it to California to investigate one of the most iconic hot rods of all time.
Related Content
Related Links
Explore
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Transistor Radio
Is this the oldest transistor radio in existence?
-
Also in Season 5
Quaker Map
Did this faded map once guide slaves to freedom on the underground railroad?
-
Related Investigation
Amelia Earhart Plane
Was this piece of metal ripped from one of the most famous missing planes in history?
-
Also in Season 5
Civil War Balloon
Could this piece of frayed material be from the country's first military airship?
-
Also in Depression and WWII: 1929-1945
WWII Patch
What is the story behind these patches?
-
Also with Tukufu Zuberi
Hot Town Poster
What role did this striking poster play in the explosive events of 1960s America?
Comments
This is a place for opinions, comments, questions and discussion; a place where viewers of History Detectives can express their points of view and connect with others who value history. We ask that posters be polite and respectful of all opinions. History Detectives reserves the right to delete comments that don’t conform to this conduct. We will not respond to every post, but will do our best to answer specific questions, or address an error.
Anyone wishing to submit an artifact for investigation should do so through Submit a Story.
- Submit your StoryDo you have a Depression or World War II object? Submit your story now.
- Latest CommentWhat is this glorifying the firearm (which is a semi-automatic by the way) of a criminal? (2 days ago)
- Twitterremember this investigation with @TukufuZuberi @elyseluray Tonight they reunite! Let us know your thoughts! @PBS http://t.co/4KMnc27K (7 months ago)
- FacebookSome wisdom as the day draws to a close. Like my page for more conversations. Enjoy your evening. Peace, Tukufu. (8 hours ago)
Feature:
Technique:
Technique: