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
Famous quotes containing the words top hat, top and/or hat:
“One day He
tipped His top hat
and walked
out of the room,
ending the argument.”
—Anne Sexton (1928–1974)
“She might have been old once and now, miraculously, young again—but with the memory of that other life intact. She seemed to know the world down there in the dark hall and beyond for what it was. Yet knowing, she still longed to leave this safe, sunlit place at the top of the house for the challenge there.”
—Paule Marshall (b. 1929)
“Every one knows about the young man who falls in love with the chorus-girl because she can kick his hat off, and his sister’s friends can’t or won’t. But the youth who marries her, expecting that all her departures from convention will be as agile or as delightful to him as that, is still the classic example of folly.”
—Katharine Fullerton Gerould (1879–1944)