Two cars from Jack Boyd Smith Jr.’s collection won awards at the Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace in London.
The cars took first and second place in the Best Pre-1940 American Coachbuilt Car category. The JBS Collection's 1937 Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible, originally owned by American aviator Amelia Earhart, won first place. Its1933 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron won second place.
The 2024 Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace welcomed over 14,000 guests. It featured privately owned road vehicles and rare competition cars from around the world. A 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Convertible was named Best in Show.
Hampton Court Palace was constructed for King Henry VIII’s chief minister, who later gave the estate to the king as a residence. Hampton Court is renowned for its gardens, fountains, historic royal tennis court and maze.
“There is such a beautiful atmosphere at Hampton Court Palace—the majesty of this place and this event is simply second-to-none,” said Smith Jr. in a press release. “It's a big honor to win any awards at a show like this one.”
Earhart’s Phaeton Convertible went through several owners after Earhart disappeared in 1937. It was later disassembled and parted throughout the country. The JBS Collection purchased the automobile from collector Ray Foster, who was able to find the Phaeton’s original components.
Smith Jr. commissioned LaVine Restorations of Nappanee to restore Earhart’s Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible and the 1933 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron. The 1933 Chrsyler Imperial LeBaron is one of fewer than 20 still in existence.
“The Cord is essentially a rolling memorial to a woman who is an absolute American icon. Amelia Earhart was way ahead of her time in so many ways,” Smith Jr. said. “I am so thankful to have been able to—with the help of my partners at LaVine Restorations—restore both of these incredible vehicles and bring them back to life.”
The JBS Collection is based in Elkhart. The collection focuses on the preservation of rare vehicles, particularly those from the early 20th century.
“Our goal is, and always will be, to share our historic and rare vehicles with as many people as we possibly can all over the world,” Smith Jr. said.
