Serial No. 7402328

Engine No. C39 19205

Body No. 3296

Chrysler's wood-bodied Town and Country was one of the most elite American cars of the early postwar years, purpose-built as an expensive, hand-made "halo car" which would draw customers into the company's showrooms. While the Town and Country sedan was suitable for, and often wound up in use at, one's country home or hunting cabin, the convertible was a car of the stars, beloved by the Hollywood figures and socialites of the day for its limited-production appeal.

The Gateway Automobile Museum's Town and Country convertible is one of the very finest to be found. It was the subject of a body-off restoration from what was obviously a solid and proper example, in Catalina Tan with the iconic Highlander interior, featuring a combination of maroon leather and tartan wool cloth, and a maroon cloth top. The body color is testified to by the trim tag which, like the serial number tag, is original. That the example was an excellent basis for the work is testified to by the interior, which retains its original hogshair carpeting and heel pad, as well as the correct modeled plastic dashboard, steering wheel, and door trim that is almost always in poor deteriorated condition – on this car, it is immaculate.

The bodywork retains much of the original chrome trim and, significantly, all its original wood, including the mahogany inner inserts. In magnificent condition, the wood has been refinished but properly so, and has the rich quality of fine furniture. Only minor "pinprick" repairs have been made on the doors, where apparently incorrect mirrors were at one point fitted. Today all is proper, including the dual spotlights, Mopar driving lights, radio, clock, and single heater. At the time of cataloging, it had recorded 9,452 miles.

While part of the late Town and Country aficionado John White's respected Ramshead Collection in Sacramento, California, this special convertible was exhibited at the 2001 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, where it was awarded First in Class. That is further testament to its excellence and authenticity; it is surely one of the very few Town and Countries to ever receive such a prestigious honor. Acquired for the Gateway Automobile Museum from Mr. White in 2006, the car would be well-suited to further concours competition, and would also be welcomed at AACA and CCCA events. It is among the best of its kind, a worthy car to stand among the likes of a Duesenberg and Packard Darrin in the Gateway stable. It deserves a great new home.