Long term members Clive and Anne Summers have owned the 1955 President in which they have attended many club runs functions and Concourses. The history of this vehicle is outlined here.

1955 Studebaker President

The History of the 1955 Studebaker President in the Queensland Club

This history is based on knowledge and information that I have received, plus my experience owning the vehicle.

It came off the assembly line on the 16th November 1954 with a destination of Kansas City, Missouri.

It is a 259 V/8 Automatic with power brakes. I was informed its original owner used it for approximately 8 years, when it was bequeathed to his grandson who had it stored for many years.

By the end of the 1980’s, Des Skinner purchased it for delivery to Brisbane. When it arrived, Des sold it to John Coles who owned it for around 5 years. During which time he had the front end and brakes overhauled by Herb Rose. The exhaust system was also renewed, and the seats restored using material to match the original.

In January 1996, I purchased the car from John. It did need some additional jobs carried out. I arranged with Mike Cosgrove to do an assortment of mechanical work and a tune up. A new radiator core was also supplied and fitted.

The whole of the interior of the trunk needed a thorough preparation and painting.
The floor covering to the interior and the trunk floor were original and in need of replacing with new. Des Skinner was able to purchase the exact same material type, that way, keeping it looking original.
I took it to an auto trimmer to have new wind lace fitted to replace the worn original.

New quarter window rubbers were supplied and fitted by Des. The vehicle had new tyres fitted a few years ago.

During the time I have owned it, it has won many trophies at various Concourses.

It is running well and looking great.

Clive P. Summers.

January, 2010