Quote:
Originally Posted by Sandy G
Did yr Papaw have any stories about Cdr. Eugene F. McDonald, Jr, the founding boss of Zenith ? I get the impression he was a "Colorful" guy...
|
My grandfather died in 1958 when I was but 5, so the stories I heard were from my Mother, who passed away 1n 2009 and my Grandmother, who passed away in 1962. He was only 52 when he passed and he had major health issues. My only personal memories of him were when he made a little cabinet into a storefront for me so I could play storekeeper, and a little cane he made for me so we could walk together (I, for some reason, was fascinated by his cane.) I don't know whether he knew Cdr. McDonald personally although I suppose he did. By all accounts, my Grandfather was a fascinating man and my regret is that he died so young that I never had a chance to hear some of the stories that I'm sure would have loved to hear. One story that was passed on through the years was that my Grandfather was offered to host the early TV show "Mr. Wizard", but he had to decline due to some personal demons he was trying to fight at the time. (I was told he was addicted to morphine.) I would love to learn more about the history of Zenith and any books that might be available. If anyone has any information about this, it would be most welcome. By the way, Sandy, what year is that Connie convert? My guess is 1967. (I'm also nuts about old cars!)