"Mascots"

[Charles Reese]

there has been a lot of activity on EBay recently re: 'hood ornament mascots'. The majority appear to have been mounted on Model T radiator caps, a few on Model A caps. Can someone enlighten me on the history of these?

 

[Gary WA]

In the Restorer Jan/Feb 2009 Ford's Hoosier Mascot History Page 8. Also MARC Nov/Dec 2002 Pg 10 Quail Rad Caps (thorough) Article.

 

[roccaas]

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/04/a...es-mascots-too-cool-to-ride-on-radiators.html

I saw some of these high end Lalique Mascots at the Amelia Concours last weekend. Many were as massive as the cars they decorated. Huge eagle heads, sculptured heads, etc. many were lit from underneath. Obviously much high priced than what you would have seen on an A, unfortunately the collection was a "no sale" at just under $1 million.

 

[Aerocraft]

The Gilmore Museum in Hickory Corners, MI has the most impressive collection of "mascots" that I have ever seen. Includes a huge collection of the "heavy metal" car mascots. Well worth going out of your way to see the entire car collection. Gar Williams

http://www.gilmorecarmuseum.org/

 

[Airsho93]

Just as a novelty I would love to find a nice looking radial engine with a prop to use on the radiator cap. I have seen one but it was junky looking.

 

[CRguy]

Just as a novelty I would love to find a nice looking radial engine with a prop to use on the radiator cap. I have seen one but it was junky looking.

Most of those old mascots, and many of the fancy caps were pot metal which disintegrates over time. There is a guy selling one of the radial engine mascots on Ebay right now and his are made out of brass.

Mel