1946 Chevy 1/2-ton Stakeside"A Little Piece of the Family Farm"
The family farm was sold after the untimely passing of my Uncle, who was the remaining proprietor of the property. In the liquidation of assets, I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to receive one of the relics from the barn - a 1946 Chevy 1/2-ton. I only ever saw it through a layer of dust -- normally in passing to get the go-kart fired up for another season of abuse and repair. Little did I know the history of such a vehicle.
This truck was my Grandfather's which he purchased new after returning from World War II. It was used on the farm in Velva, North Dakota for many years as an auxiliary truck bringing fuel, parts and grain around the farm and into town. All five children learned to drive and would support the family making deliveries and running errands.
In December 2019 I took delivery of the truck one evening the dark. With no brakes, dubious steering and no visibility, we carefully got it off the car hauler and secured for the night.
After a wash, it was evident that the truck was very solid and complete with little to no serious rust issues. It looks to have been refurbished around the 70s or 80s which is a foggy memory I've been told. The thick coat of black enamel paint seems to confirm that, along with doing a good job of protecting the body and bed. It has its fair share of dents and dings ... things you'd expect to see with such a history.
This is how it looked once it was pulled out of the barn awaiting transport from North Dakota to Florida.
Another is on the night it was received. This is the only photo available of the truck in its prime. That's my Grandfather and his dog. I'd assume they are showing off the new paint job they'd just completed.
This was the next day out in the sun after a first wash. Shined up nice.
I've had the truck now for a while and have made significant progress towards the goal of getting it roadworthy. Right now I am focusing on the mechanicals. It's a farm truck and I don't intend to move too far away from that origin. The vision is to keep some part of that farm around for future generations to enjoy. I figure there is no better place to document that process but here.
Thanks for looking and also for sharing your knowledge and experience on the forum and articles. Every little bit helps.
