KINGSFORD, Mich. (WZMQ) – The 1923 Ford Model T owned by Brett Ebertsch was awarded the Best-of-Show trophy at Saturday’s car show. The vintage car, representing a bygone era for the city of Kingsford, has never left the Iron-Mountain-Kingsford area.
“I never expected best of show,” Ebertsch exclaimed, clearly overwhelmed by the honor bestowed upon the beloved vehicle.
Ebertsch, who has cherished the car for the past 15 years, recently gave it a fresh paint job during the winter season. However, the car’s sentimental value goes beyond its physical appearance. Ebertsch shared a close relationship with the previous owner, Johnny Greer, who passed away a year or two ago.
“I bought it from a guy by the name of Johnny Greer, he used to own Whispering Pines,” Ebertsch revealed. “But he would never sell it because everyone wanted to make a street rod out of it.”
The Ebertsch family has always had a deep affection for classic rides, as evidenced by their participation in the centennial parade with 3 different collectible Ford models. When Ebertsch acquired the 1923 Ford Model T, he made a promise to the previous owner that he would restore it to its original historical glory.
“His uncle was the one that originally purchased it. And he manufactured dynamite. So that’s why I’ve got dynamite boxes in the back,” Ebertsch explained, shedding light on the unique history of the car.
The vintage vehicle had been parked and left to decay since around 1936, slowly falling apart over the years. Ebertsch’s determination to preserve its original state led him to become its proud owner, with the condition that he would undertake its restoration.
“It was just sitting there in disarray falling apart. And that’s when I managed to get it, provided I put it back,” Ebertsch stated.
For Ebertsch, the overall 2-year restoration of the 1923 Ford Model T was not only a labor of love but also a valuable learning experience. Despite not having a background in mechanics, he took it upon himself to transform the relic into a magnificent piece of history, preserving a hundred years of Kingsford’s automotive heritage.
“My father was a mechanic, but I never was,” Ebertsch admitted. “I wasn’t allowed to touch a wrench because I broke everything. But on these cars, every nut and bolt come off, not a broken one.”
With sheer determination and a commitment to detail, Ebertsch dedicated two years of his life to the painstaking restoration process. Each step was a learning curve, as he familiarized himself with the inner workings of the vintage vehicle. Through countless hours spent turning wrenches and carefully piecing together the car’s components, Ebertsch successfully brought it back to life.
As the proud steward of the automobile, Ebertsch understands the importance of preserving its pristine condition. The Ebertsch family has three garages, with their brand-new cars parked outside, braving the unpredictable Michigan elements. Meanwhile, their cherished classics are safely tucked away, awaiting the next joy ride.
This stunning restoration serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving the history and heritage of Kingsford for generations to come.
