restored were fun to hear. Imagine owning an ancient tow truck that’s been restored using computer imaging and water jet metal-shaping technology. Some of the graphics on the trucks were those of towing companies that still are in business today. In fact, it appeared that many of the classic tow trucks were still “working for a living.” In other cases, the graphics were ones you do not see anymore. Apparently, vinyl graphics companies are getting a lot of business reproducing lettering and logo decals for classic tow trucks being restored.
American Towing’s Kenworth operates out of Ruston, Iowa.
Virtually no two tow trucks in the show were anywhere near the same. The names on many trucks were those of towing operators who support the annual ATHS Convention with memberships and show trucks. This event is not only about collecting and restoring old tow trucks, it’s about celebrating the history of an industry that thousands of hardworking Americans have grown up in. The convention is an anxiously awaited social gathering for many towers. Other convention-related activities included a truck cruise, tours, speakers, appearance by Tim Ridley of the Road Dog Trucking channel and Greg Evigan of “B.J. & the Bear” TV fame. With nearly 1,300 trucks packed into a mile square space, there were undoubtedly other classic tow trucks in the mix. It is possible to see them all by joining ATHS and getting a copy of the annual Show Time book, a full-color collectible publication that features all the trucks registered for the ATHS’ National Antique Truck Show. Ernie Vole’s 1971 Pete out of Vernon, Ill., sports bright orange paint that makes it stand out in a crowd.
70 • August 2017 - TOWMAN.COM
Decker Truck Line’s 1979 Peterbilt 359 from Fort Dodge, Iowa. Decker Truck Line has been family owned and operated since 1931.
