1930 Ford Model A Ice Cream Truck

1930 Ford Model A Ice Cream Truck
Engine no. A4482688
When Ford introduced the new Model A in 1928 it was a giant leap forward from Model T that preceded it. Featuring a conventional three-pedal and sliding gearbox, it brought Ford in-line with where the motoring world was, and would continue going into the future.

While the design was a big change, one thing wasn't—the mutability of the platform. As with the T, countless uses were found for the new As and numerous companies sprang to action to modify As to fit unique and interesting commercial ventures.

While some As were destined for a life of hardship as tanker trucks or haulers, this A, which likely started life as a pickup or bare chassis before being converted into its current form, has no doubt brought joy and smiles where ever it goes as an ice cream truck. Featuring an extra tall body to allow for the vendor to stand in the back of the truck, this body style could be repurposed to sell just about anything with a simple refit of the interior equipment.

Joining the Hartogh Collection in the summer of 1999—just in time for peak ice cream season—it is nicely finished in pearl white with bright blue wings and striping. Ice cream illustrations on the side of the truck remind you what fun lies within.

Still popular today, these ice cream trucks, which pre-date the famous Good Humor trucks, are excellent fun. Whether used for personal enjoyment—or to continue its original commercial intention and sell ice cream—smiles are all but guaranteed.