Los Angeles, the heartland of car culture, holds a special place in the automotive world. Recently, I had the opportunity to explore the city’s car scene with my sister, Jacquie, a talented film music composer. Both of us share a deep passion for cars, making our visit to iconic spots like Galpin Speed Shop, the Petersen Automotive Museum, and the Lions Drag Strip Museum truly unforgettable.
One of the standout experiences was seeing the custom Mercury built by George and Sam Barris for Bob Hirohata. This legendary car, known as the Hirohata Merc, had captured my imagination since childhood. Thanks to a personal tour arranged by Galpin Speed Shop, I finally got to admire this masterpiece up close, taking in every detail with awe.
Another gem we discovered was the ‘Uncertain T,’ a Steve Scott creation that resurfaced after 50 years of obscurity. This innovative build, currently on display at Galpin Speed Shop, showcases exceptional craftsmanship and design, a testament to the creativity of its time.
While in Hollywood, we indulged in the vibrant car culture by cruising along Hollywood Boulevard. The eclectic mix of hot rods, muscle cars, lowriders, and tuner builds was a feast for the eyes. Among the many impressive rides, a ’62 Impala stood out, epitomizing the spirit of cruising with its flawless style and tunes.
Galpin Speed Shop, under the stewardship of Beau Boeckmann and Dave Shuten, is a treasure trove of iconic customs. The restoration of Ed Roth’s ‘Orbitron’ bubble-top and other Roth vehicles showcased there are not just cars but pieces of automotive history with captivating stories.
At the Petersen Automotive Museum, a fierce Corvette built by John Greenwood for the 1976 24 Hours of Le Mans caught my attention. The sheer power and design of ‘The Spirit of Le Mans’ were awe-inspiring, a true testament to Greenwood’s engineering prowess.
Delving into the museum’s vault revealed hidden gems like the ‘XR-6,’ a groundbreaking build from the ’60s that melded innovation and style. Seeing this piece of automotive history up close was a surreal experience, highlighting the evolution of custom car culture.
One of the most memorable encounters was with ‘The Camfather’ Ed Iskenderian at the Lions Drag Strip Museum. Celebrating his 103rd birthday, Ed shared fascinating stories, including his time at Amberley Air Base during WWII. His sharp wit and enduring passion for cars left a lasting impression.
Exploring LA’s car culture hotspots was a journey filled with nostalgia, innovation, and admiration for the craftsmanship that defines custom car building. Each custom build and museum exhibit revealed a unique story, reflecting the rich tapestry of automotive history woven in the City of Angels.
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