Honest Charley Speed Shop
Honest Charley Speed Shop was founded by Charley "Honest Charley" Card in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1948. Charley's unique combination of automotive, performance and custom accessories and world wide distribution of the notably humorous Honest Charley catalogs served to establish Honest Charley Speed Shop as one of the most recognized names in the Automotive Aftermarket.[1]
Honest Charley Speed Shop was one of the first advertisers featured in Hot Rod Magazine, and his company was one of the first speed shops with coast to coast distribution. Company expansion included Honest Charley retail stores and and distribution centers throughout Tennessee, Georgia and Florida supplying jobbers and dealers throughout the southeast. In 1980 Honest Charley's Speed Distributors Warehouse was named SEMA's Warehouse Distributor of the Year.[1]
In 1990, after more than forty years of industry innovation and dedicated service, Honest Charley discontinued operations at 108 Honest Street. However, the significance of Honest's legacy of always placing the customer first and his example of embracing all enthusiasts as family and friends continued to influence both the industry and all who knew him. In 1998 the Honest Charley name and trademarks were acquired by Chattanooga automotive enthusiast and businessman Corky Coker. Coker Tire Company has long been recognized for its extensive line of fine tires for collector vehicles. Memories of Honest Charley and Corky's enthusiasm towards all things automotive provided the inspiration to once again guarantee the enthusiast a unique product selection in conjunction with a solid commitment to customer service. In early 2001, Honest Charley ads were once again appearing in leading automotive publications including Hot Rod, Car Craft and Super Chevy magazines.[1]
Today, Honest Charley is located within the Coker Tire Complex in historic downtown Chattanooga.[1]
Employees
References
Did you enjoy this article?
Kustomrama is an encyclopedia dedicated to preserve, share and protect traditional hot rod and custom car history from all over the world.
- Help us keep history alive. For as little as 2.99 USD a month you can become a monthly supporter. Click here to learn more.
- Subscribe to our free newsletter and receive regular updates and stories from Kustomrama.
- Do you know someone who would enjoy this article? Click here to forward it.
Can you help us make this article better?
Please get in touch with us at mail@kustomrama.com if you have additional information or photos to share about Honest Charley Speed Shop.
This article was made possible by:
SunTec Auto Glass - Auto Glass Services on Vintage and Classic Cars
Finding a replacement windshield, back or side glass can be a difficult task when restoring your vintage or custom classic car. It doesn't have to be though now with auto glass specialist companies like www.suntecautoglass.com. They can source OEM or OEM-equivalent glass for older makes/models; which will ensure a proper fit every time. Check them out for more details!
Do you want to see your company here? Click here for more info about how you can advertise your business on Kustomrama.
