Lead-Smoothing Paddle Used in Automobile Customizing, 1957-1969

01

Artifact Overview

Brothers Mike and Larry Alexander used this wooden paddle to apply molten lead to car surfaces as part of their custom car business. The "A Brothers," as they were commonly called, were among the best-known car customizers of the 1950s and '60s.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Hand tool

Date Made

1957-1969

Subject Date

1957-1969

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2011.212.2

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of Larry and Mike Alexander.

Material

Wood (Plant material)

Color

Brown

Dimensions

Height: 2.5 in
Width: 1.375 in
Length: 7.5 in

Inscriptions

Stamp on handle base: # P77 / WIDE VALLEY / "BOILED IN TALLOW" / SOLDEM (?) PADDLE / REMONT (?) / LOMBARD, ILL.