Lot 276

Vintage Motor Cars at Hershey 2007

1948 Chrysler Town & Country Convertible

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$176,000 USD | Sold

United States | Hershey, Pennsylvania

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Chassis No.
7406544

135 hp, 323.5 cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, Fluid Drive automatic transmission, front and rear coil springs and shock absorbers, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 121.5"

“They go well together – Orchids and the Chrysler Town and Country – perfect background for those to whom distinction comes naturally. There’s an air about this glorious convertible – a whisper of country clubs and moonlight rides – There’s poise in every dashing line – a car that’s at ease in any company.” - 1946 Chrysler Advertising Promotion

That was the image behind the car, an image that shifted the focus of soldier to citizen, of time served – to time to enjoy. The war was over and so now Chrysler, along with every auto manufacturer in the world, eagerly sought to capture and hold the public’s attention. The Town & Country was the perfect car to do that.

As swiftly as the production of civilian cars came to an abrupt halt at the onset of World War II, it was resumed with nearly twice the speed in 1946. The Big Three scrambled to meet the imminent demand of excited new car buyers, however, Chrysler did so with a creative gusto that helped make some of their cars immediately sought after by world’s rich and famous. Cleverly constructed using the easy to acquire white ash and mahogany wood panels and framing, designers were able to craft an unmistakable appearance without scrambling for steel. Though the car itself was on the heavy side, the Spitfire eight-cylinder engine helped the Town & Country float almost effortlessly along and up almost any road with little concern.

The lovely Town & Country we have the pleasure of presenting here has a long known history since the early 1960s when it was purchased by Stewart Kennedy and Catherine Baker in 1963. Upon picking up their new Town & Country the couple set out on a long journey, driving the Chrysler from the East Coast all the way to Sarnia, Ontario. After many years of enjoyment, the couple set out to restore the Chrysler and began the process in 1989. Sadly, Stewart Kennedy passed away before it was completed. Undeterred, his wife Catherine, with the help of some supportive and knowledgeable friends, recommenced the restoration in 1992. By 1994, the Chrysler was completed and shown in its first competitive event at the Willistead Concours d’Elegance. To their collective credit, the Chrysler was awarded with a Best in Class award, undoubtedly a very satisfying and memorable moment Catherine and all her friends.

In 1997, its current owner and enthusiast purchased the Chrysler to join his impressive collection of motor cars. As the Town & Country remained in excellent overall condition, little work was needed other than standard upkeep since then. However, at the time, the gentleman owner did opt to replace the interior with the more attractive blue Highlander plaid, which it retains today and is understood to be in excellent overall condition. We understand that the car is very fit running example with all systems working as one would expect. The brightwork, engine and bay, underbody and paintwork also all remain very presentable and in well restored and maintained order.

The 1947 Chrysler Town & Country was and still is a beautiful car, with this example showing exactly why it was one of the most expensive, desirable and sought after of its kind.