1954 Edwards America Convertible

In August of 2023, The First Edwards America was shown in the "American Dream Cars of the 1950s" class during the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The class celebrated unique, limited-production cars built by remarkable individuals. These cars were designed and built in garages or local shops, not by big corporations. Photo courtesy of Roy R. Sorenson.

Photo courtesy of Roy R. Sorenson.

The Briggs Cunningham Trophy, (donated in 1978 by Briggs Cunningham himself, is awarded to the most exciting open car present), and second place in class, went to the 1954 Edwards America Convertible owned by Gary and Cathy Edwards (of Houston, Texas). The car was designed by race car engineer Norman Timbs and built by Sterling Edwards. The car features a Henry J chassis, an Oldsmobile Rocket V8, and a fiberglass body. This is No. 1 of five cars produced. (The current owners are unrelated to Sterling Edwards. Photo courtesy of Roy R. Sorenson.

Photo courtesy of Roy R. Sorenson.

Sterling Edwards, inspired by a Cisitalia Mille Miglia roadster during the 1948 Winter Olympics, envisioned a car combining European design aesthetics with American engineering. His initial venture, the R-26 sports-racing car, co-designed by Norman Timbs and constructed by notable builders including Phil Remington, showcased his design prowess and racing passion, clinching victories and accolades in California races and the 1950 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

From Racing to Road

Transitioning from racing success, Edwards created the Edwards America, a road car with fiberglass coachwork and an American drivetrain. Despite its appeal and advanced design, only five units were produced due to high costs.

The First Edwards America

Chassis no. 194-1, the first of its kind, was distinct for its Kaiser-Frazer Henry J chassis and Oldsmobile "Rocket" V-8 engine. Initially sold to John McWorter in 1954, its history spans various enthusiasts and was notably presented at the 1999 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance by Bob Shuey.

Restoration and Legacy

Owned by Neil Huffman from 2000, the convertible underwent a comprehensive mechanical restoration, earning accolades at various concours events. Acquired in 2010 by a new owner, this prototype continues to be a testament to Edwards' groundbreaking vision, ideal for concours and American car shows. In 2023, the car was owned by Gary and Cathy Edwards of Houston, Texas. In August of 2023 they showed it in the "American Dream Cars of the 1950s" class during the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The class celebrated unique, limited-production cars built by remarkable individuals. These cars were designed and built in garages or local shops, not by big corporations. The Briggs Cunningham Trophy, (donated in 1978 by Briggs Cunningham himself, is awarded to the most exciting open car present), and second place in class, went to the Edwards America.