A reflection of Wendell Stringer, of Clarkston, from a window of one of the classic cars on display at The Clarkston Fall Color Car Classic at Independence Oaks County Park, Sunday October 5, 2003.

From The Oakland Press

Woodward Dreamin': Readers show off their classic rides before the big cruise

Last Updated: 8/17/2012 9:40:29 AM

By ALEX BARHORST
For The Oakland Press

Clarkston resident Wendell Stringer and his 1955 Buick

Clarkston resident Wendell Stringer will be driving a ’55 Buick in the Woodward Dream Cruise.

Stringer, 74, paid $8,000 for the car a decade ago.

He said he saw the car was being auctioned by Southern Motors at a Woodward Dream Cruise he attended. The car was not purchased during the auction, so he decided to contact its owner.

“Two days later it was sitting here in the garage,” Stringer said. “It has been here for 10 years.”

The Buick owner customized the car after he bought it. He had a radio, new tires, chrome edges and new seats all installed.

The retiree added that he is used to the attention the car receives.

“I’ve had several people that (said) they were going to go home with this car, and I said ‘no you’re not,’” Stringer said.

The vehicle has won numerous accolades. Stringer’s awards includes trophies, plaques and a custom jacket he received from The Oakland Press.

“We’ve had fun with this. We’ve really had fun with it,” Stringer said. “It’s one of my prized possessions.”