Mecum internet auction to offer auto parts tied to Hemmings legacy

(September 2, 2020) WALWORTH, Wis. — Mecum Auctions is set to offer a selection of used and reproduction parts from Old Standard Auto Parts, a business started by the Hemmings family, as well as a headlight and tail-light visor business and inventory started by a former owner of Standard Auto Parts and several pieces that tie directly to Ernie Hemmings of Hemmings Motor News fame via its online, time-based auction platform, Mecum On Time. The online auction is set to begin on Sept. 16 and close on Sept. 19.

Standard Auto Parts was founded in 1923 by G.E. Hemmings in Quincy, Ill., and was later taken over by his son, Ernie Hemmings. Following his return from the Korean War in the early 1950s, Ernie Hemmings realized there was a market for old, obsolete parts at the shop within the few old car publications of the time, which eventually led him to start his own “little paper”: The Hemmings Motor News. The very first issue of Hemmings Motor News was published by Ernie Hemmings in January 1954.

The business would later pass into the hands of Ron and Jane Cloat, customers of Standard Auto Parts, who would also start their own headlight and tail-light visor business during their 20 years of ownership. The Standard Auto Parts and visor businesses were then sold to current owners Chuck and Diane Bos around 2008, who relocated the business to Hillsdale, Illinois, renamed it to Old Standard Auto Parts and have maintained it ever since.

1928-1931 Ford Model A frames and axles

The Bos family is now ready to part with some aspects of the inventory and business, with a vast selection of reproduction and used parts, as well as the entirety of the visor business, its inventory and machinery, with the online offering highlighted by two significant pieces of Hemmings history: an old shop sign depicting Ernie Hemmings ownership of Standard Auto Parts and what is believed to be the final catalog produced by Ernie Hemmings.

In addition to the more than 50 shelves, racks, boxes and pallets of used and reproduction 1928-1932 Ford Model A parts ranging from bumpers, brakes, headlights and horn parts to fenders, running boards, window tracks, transmissions, engines and engine blocks, the Bos family will also offer a 1929 Ford Model A two-door sedan body and parts.

For more details on this special offering of Old Standard Auto Parts inventory and historical Hemmings items or to register as a bidder, visit OnTime.Mecum.com, or call (262) 275-5050 for more information.