owned by Peter Shannon Reprinted from ‘The Piston Broke’ Gladstone vintage and classic carriage club- newsletter June 2001
Hidden away in a shed at Peter Shannon’s place, where one has to climb a ladder to get a photo was this 1926 Model T Ford. Peter bought this late ‘T’ in 1964 from Falkener Motors in Gatton. The Original owner was from Murphy’s creek near Toowoomba, and decided it was time for a new Ford so he had taken the model T to part exchange on a Ford Anglia.. Peter says the T Ford came with wooden wheels. In 1926 wire wheels were an option. It changed in 1927 and wire 
wheels became the standard and wooden wheels became the option. . .My memory on what was said during conversations has been proven to be unreliable on many occasions, but I was fairly sure Peter told me that he replaced the wooden wheels with wire because they developed noises on rough roads, and it was not until I looked at the photos that I noticed the Ford still had wooden wheels on the front. . . Unless. The photo is wrong ? I expect we 
shall get a few emails from the web site telling us that wire wheels were not an option from someone in The US or Canada, but my own brief research tells me that there were varied dealer options around the world, and as this is an Australian sold Vehicle I shall except Peters word, he is a better authority than I will ever be. The car is not presently mobile as it has a broken Bearing. Peter says it currently has an earlier T model engine, but he has a 1926 engine that will be replacing the un-original one (when it has been rebuilt) to make the T ‘correct’ Unfortunately – (or quite possibly Fortunately- it was a great Rally ) The Mt. Morgan Rally was crammed with interesting places and things to do and the Stopover at Peters place was limited to a couple of hours, and members were rounded up By Bills Fire Truck with Siren blaring .; Kurrajong Jambin Qld 4202
1926 Model T Ford.**The 1926 Model T Ford: A Classic American Icon**
The Model T Ford, often referred to simply as the “Tin Lizzie,” holds a cherished place in automotive history as one of the most significant cars ever produced. Introduced by the Ford Motor Company in 1908, the Model T revolutionized the automotive industry and changed the way Americans lived, worked, and traveled.
By the mid-1920s, the Model T had undergone several improvements and refinements, with the 1926 model marking one of the final years of production for this legendary vehicle. The Model T was built on principles of affordability and accessibility, aimed at the average American family. The 1926 version continued this legacy, featuring a simple yet robust design that was easy to repair and maintain.
**Design and Features**
The 1926 Model T Ford was characterized by its lightweight construction, which contributed to its fuel efficiency. It retained the flat, boxy body style that had become its hallmark, available in various configurations, including the popular touring car and the more utilitarian pickup truck. The engine was a four-cylinder powerhouse capable of producing around 20 horsepower, and it featured a planetary transmission that made it easier to drive.
One of the standout features of the 1926 Model T was its versatile chassis, which allowed for various body styles to be mounted. This flexibility made it a favorite among both families and businesses, as it could be adapted to meet different needs.
**Cultural Impact**
The Model T Ford is often credited with helping to shape modern America. Its affordability allowed millions of families to own a car for the first time, fundamentally altering social dynamics and expanding geographic mobility. As more people hit the roads, it facilitated the growth of suburbs and changed the landscape of cities across the nation.
Moreover, the Model T was central to the development of the American manufacturing industry. Henry Ford’s introduction of the assembly line in 1913 drastically reduced production costs and time, making it possible to produce vehicles at an unprecedented scale. This innovation had far-reaching effects beyond the automotive industry, influencing manufacturing processes in various sectors.
**Legacy**
Production of the Model T ended in 1927, after approximately 15 million units were built, cementing its status as the best-selling car of the era. Its impact on automotive design and manufacturing processes is still felt today. The 1926 Model T remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts and collectors, representing a pivotal moment in automotive history.
Today, the Model T Ford is celebrated not only for its historic significance but also for its timeless design and the role it played in shaping the modern world. Whether displayed in museums, featured in car shows, or lovingly restored by enthusiasts, the 1926 Model T Ford continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of new generations, embodying the spirit of American ingenuity and innovation.