The Dave Willis Photo Collection

A photo of Cliff Rich's 1926 Ford Model T Coupe next to Dave Willis' 1933 Ford 3-Window Coupe. Built by Cliff at just 17 years old, the T was a groundbreaking car in the Canadian hot rod scene. With its chopped and channeled body and vibrant Lemon-yellow lacquer finish, it became the first Canadian car to grace the cover of Car Craft Magazine (April 1959). The coupe's innovative features included a 1926 Ford body mounted on a 1931 Chevrolet frame, Packard rear fenders, a fully chromed Buick Nailhead engine, and a luxurious pleated interior. Cliff's three-year labor of love not only earned him 11 trophies after a Seattle car show trip but also inspired countless others to join the hot rod craze. This photo captures a moment when the T was owned by fellow Cut-Outs of Port Alberni member Ross Kinman, who continued its legacy of striking design and performance. Over the years, the car passed through multiple hands before disappearing into obscurity. Rumor has it the T may still be hidden in the Vancouver area, waiting to be rediscovered. Photo courtesy of Dave Willis.