ROSEBURG GRAFFITI EVENT–HOTRODS AND MORE
Roseburg Graffiti - 2008
The Old car Gods were shining on Southern Oregon this month; two car events, one in Roseburg and one in Grants Pass made for some interesting pictures, new friends and great gawking. (visit Old Cars Never Die for a slide show.)
Cruisin'
I found out about the event at 4:30 on Friday. By five, I was on the road, camera packed with toothbrush and pillow stashed in the trunk. Three hours later, I found a room at the Travel Lodge right on one of the main drags. The accommodations were comfortable and the place was jammed with car enthusiasts. We watched the unintentional parade from the Motel driveway, some people having the foresight to bring canvas chairs.
Graffiti Day Cruise
Muscle cars made noise and the hot rods quivered with envy. I saw few restorations, but many people were in for the night. I discovered most of the restorations were trailered to Roseburg while the hotrods and muscle cars drove no matter how distant their home base. One of the few remaining drive-ins was reputed to have a throng of ’50s cars.
The Show and Shine was the highlight for me. To get to know the owners, to take a few pictures using the tripod (monopod), to admire and get up close and personal is my idea of time well spent. But, it was a very hot day in Roseburg. Fortunately, I found shade and a perch with Ray Johnson.
Ray’s ‘51 Chevy is a White masterpiece. He did all the metal work himself. I asked him if he was a metalsmith, he replied, “I am now.” Notice the dropped cab on this truck. He lowered the door.
So many great examples of backyard workmanship, sometimes unidentified. These Chevy trucks may also be a 50-51 but are customized so I am unsure…the bed is lowered on one. No mistaking that grill, however.
