Top Hat LaBaron Pierce-Arrow
In 1929 George Baker commissioned the construction of a one-of-a-kind Pierce-Arrow town car, built by LeBaron, for the wedding of his daughter. The car's uniquely high roof line (5" taller than standard models) was specifically requested by Mr. Baker who wished to wear his top hat while riding. At the time this car was finished, Mr. Baker was one of the 10 richest men in the United States and easily one of the wealthiest individuals in history up to that time.
The vehicle, having been owned by such a prominent figure in American history, has significant historical value. The car was rediscovered in 1978 in a barn in Ohio alongside a Rolls Royce Boat Tail Speedster formerly owned by Fred Astaire.
The unique features of the car reflect the affluence of its former owner. Trim lining in the rear compartment of the car is made of 24 carat gold, as are the perfume dispensers and intercom.
The car is currently part of the White Glove Collection, located in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Read more about this topic: George Fisher Baker
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—Anne Sexton (1928–1974)
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How she stood at the top of that long marble stair
Amazed, and then with a sleepy pirouette
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—Richard Wilbur (b. 1921)
“I saw a guide-post surmounted by a pair of moose horns.... They are sometimes used for ornamental hat-trees, together with deer’s horns, in front entries; but ... I trust that I shall have a better excuse for killing a moose than that I may hang my hat on his horns.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)