Timeline
From Ford's factory floor in 1928 to our garage today — historical milestones alongside our family's own story.
Ford Model T introduced
Henry Ford launches the Model T, the car that would put America on wheels. It remains in production for 19 years.
Model T production ends; Ford retools
Ford shuts down the River Rouge complex in May 1927 to retool for a new model. Over 60,000 workers are laid off during the six-month conversion.
Model A unveiled at New York Auto Show
On December 2, Henry Ford reveals the Model A to the public. Over 10 million people visit dealerships in the first 36 hours. Orders flood in from across the country.
First full year of Model A production
Ford ramps to full production. The Model A is offered in over a dozen body styles, from the open Roadster and Phaeton to Tudor and Fordor sedans, a Pickup, and a Panel Delivery.
Our Model A manufactured
This car rolls off a Ford assembly line during the first full production year of the Model A. Its early story — where it was sold, who owned it first — is still being researched.
Peak Model A production year
Ford builds nearly 1.5 million Model A vehicles in 1929, the peak of the run. The model outsells Chevrolet and cements Ford's return to the top of the market.
Model A production ends
Ford ceases Model A production to prepare for the Model B four-cylinder and the landmark 1932 flathead V-8. Over 4.8 million Model A vehicles had been built in four years.
Bill acquires the Model A
Bill Poage buys the car from an antique dealership north of Security, Colorado, and begins a years-long restoration — sourcing original parts from dealers in Florida and New York to keep it as authentic as possible.
Jeremy learns to drive it
At 17, Jeremy takes his first turn behind the wheel at Bill's house in Colorado Springs — no synchromesh, no power steering, throttle on the steering column. One trip around the block, but it counted.
First look at the car
A first in-person visit to see the car at Granddad's house, decades after those rumble-seat rides.
Inspection at Granddad's
Pre-transport walkthrough at Granddad's house in Colorado Springs — a careful look at every angle before the car left its longtime home.
The title changes hands
Bill signs the title over to Jeremy. Three instructions came with it: keep it original, take it in parades, take it to car shows.
Travel Day — the car comes home
The Model A leaves Colorado Springs and arrives in its new garage in Loveland.
First service at Gearz
Initial inspection and recommissioning at Gearz Automotive in Loveland — fuel flush, plugs cleaned, carburetor serviced, fresh oil, new 6-volt battery.
First start at home
The car runs in its new home for the first time.
Electrical fix
Lights and gauges back to working order.
First car show
The Model A makes its first public appearance at the Loveland Blues & Cruise — keeping the second of Bill's three instructions.
Family entries are marked in burgundy and link to the gallery, family story, or restoration log. More will be added as new chapters happen.