In the latest Hagerty Classic Cars magazine, on page 64, is a picture of
the front end of a 1955 Chrysler. The picture shows 2 flag holders on the
front bumper, which would indicate that it was used for some special
purpose. I called the Petersen Museum collection administrator and
received the following. Seems that this was built for a special
use.
John Holst...
1952/56 CHRYSLER
Imperial Parade Phaeton
In 1952 Chrysler supplied custom-built Parade Phaetons to New York, Los
Angeles and The White House for transporting dignitaries in parades and
other special events. Built on extended Crown Imperial chassis, all
three were returned to Chrysler in 1955 to be updated with new 1956
?Forward Look? styling. Their striking appearance and frequent use
by high-profile celebrities gave Chrysler important exposure that
enhanced the prestige of their production cars. This car was
originally intended for the White House. However, since the White
House is not permitted to receive gifts of this nature, Chrysler retained
the car and shipped it around at its discretion. Known as ?The
Detroit Car,? this phaeton was often used by President Eisenhower and
President Nixon. It was sold out of the Chrysler motor pool in
approximately 1970 and today is the only one of the original three that
is privately owned. The other two are still owned and used by the
cities of New York and Los Angeles.
The Margie and Robert E. Petersen Collection
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