Stopping to check out the 26th Annual Shades of the Past Hot Rod Roundup in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in September added a definite level of cool to our must-see list with everything that the area had to offer. It was amazing to learn that the Great Smoky Mountains encompass 500 thousand acres of Southern Appalachian wilderness with 95 percent of it being forest and 800 miles of trails for hiking and exploration. Held at the lush Smoky River Ranch, you entered into the expansive venue and it was easy to find just the perfect spot to settle into and enjoy the weekend. With over 175 vendors on hand there was plenty to see and check out while you walked the grounds taking in plenty of new ideas for your ride. Friday was the day that the Shades Top 25 was selected (from 2,875 vehicles in attendance) in addition to the notifications of who was to receive the specialty picks. The winner of the cash prize in the amount of $20,000.00 went to Ken Smith, and it got even better after that when the superb turn-key Deuce coupe built by Alloway's Hot Rod Shop was presented to lucky winners Robert and Pam Lawson. You can check it all out at
www.shadesofthepast.com
Coated in a dramatic layer...
Coated in a dramatic layer of cinnamon pearl, Will Hudson's '50 Ford coupe had a wicked stance thanks to Air Ride bags combined with a Fatman front end while a Ford 351-inch mill gave it gusto.
A definitive 50's style gave...
A definitive 50's style gave John and Edith Bauer's Deuce plenty of classic good looks with its un-chopped lid combined with full fenders, tasty scallops, wide whites, and a nifty front nerf bar.
Andy Kubicsko's '36 Ford drop-top...
Andy Kubicsko's '36 Ford drop-top was as nice as they come covered in liquid red gloss complimented by a Heidt's IFS for a cool stance. Scorching power was from a Ford 427ci V8 while an interior by Paul Atkins kept it comfy.
If Ron Wilson's '57 Ford Ranchero...
If Ron Wilson's '57 Ford Ranchero didn't get your pulse racing there was no hope for you! The two-toned hauler had loads of go from a 351-inch Ford while a slammed suspension gave it just enough attitude.
As subtle as they come and...
As subtle as they come and packed with dramatic lines, Darryl Rogers' Deuce was easy on the eyes with its soft green and creme color combination, laid back windshield, and stylish good looks.
Everything about Gabe Rodrigues'...
Everything about Gabe Rodrigues' '32 Ford roadster screamed performance from its massive rear tires to its stack-injected Hemi mill. Combining a classic silver exterior with a lipstick red business office made it a winner.