For the past 40+ years I have used Greenmount Road whenever we are headed to Harrisonburg. During this time, I noticed an old tree that looked like it was dying. Each year, fewer and fewer leaves were on the tree. Then dead limbs started to fall around the tree. I would figure the tree to be at least 100+ years old, now only about 10-12 feet remain standing. Now, however, there are new shoots coming out of the rotted top!
I believe that our time on Earth, whether long or short, is not something that is definite. I guess why, after thinking about this tree, I remembered, at age 76 I am building a little speedster like the ones that first ran at Indianapolis Speedway in the early teens. At 16 years old, I built my first race car, a 1950 Willys. I hope that I have enough “oomph” to finish this project. I am sure that without the help of my “old friends” who come back to my house about every Friday, I wouldn’t be nearly as far along as I am. I am trying to use parts that are at least 100 years old for authenticity. I admit, that although there is a club of old guys who “gentleman” race their 100+ year old speedsters, like the one I am building. (The previous sentence will hopefully never be read by my wife!) Both her and the doctor think I should not do such things, so please don’t mention it to them!
I guess because the last time I was playing on a dirt track in Pennsylvania, I needed help to get out of the car and I have not done that since. Now, does anyone have any 100-year-old parts so I can finish my 1915 Speedster?
Jack P. Wenger
