The 1937 Cord 812 Convertible, currently part of The JBS Collection, is more than just a luxury vehicle—it’s a historical artifact deeply connected to the legendary aviator Amelia Earhart. This iconic car not only represents cutting-edge automotive innovation of its time but also serves as a tangible reminder of Earhart’s adventurous spirit and enduring legacy.

Amelia Earhart and Her Love for Automobiles

Amelia Earhart was well known not just for her aviation feats but also for her passion for cars. One of her earliest vehicles, a 1923 Kissel Gold Bug, became her first sports car. Earhart took it on a cross-country journey with her mother, visiting numerous National Parks and creating cherished memories along the way.

In the early 1930s, Earhart even lent her celebrity status to the automotive world, serving as a spokesperson for Terraplane, an aviation-inspired car line that highlighted her love for innovation and adventure. Her connection to automobiles was an extension of her pioneering spirit, always seeking the thrill of the open road—or the open skies.

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Acquiring the Cord 812 Phaeton

In September 1936, Amelia Earhart added the stunning Cord 812 Convertible to her collection. The car was revolutionary, boasting features such as front-wheel drive, retractable headlights, and elegant Art Deco styling. It was a perfect match for Earhart’s personality—modern, bold, and innovative.

A now-famous photograph captures Earhart standing beside her Cord 812 alongside the Lockheed 10E Electra, the airplane she would later use in her ill-fated 1937 flight around the world.

This image immortalizes her connection to the car, cementing its place in history:

The Cord’s Journey After Earhart’s Disappearance

Tragically, less than a year after purchasing the Cord, Earhart disappeared during her attempt to circumnavigate the globe. After her disappearance, her husband, George Putnam, decided to sell the car. Over the decades, the Cord passed through numerous owners and eventually fell into disrepair.

At one point, the car was disassembled and its components scattered across the United States. This fragmentation made its restoration a formidable challenge, with many parts seemingly lost to history.

Restoration: A Labor of Love

In 2004, collector Ray Foster succeeded in reuniting the Cord 812’s original body, frame, and engine after years of meticulous research and travel. Recognizing the car’s historical significance, he ensured its preservation before selling it to The JBS Collection.

In 2018, The JBS Collection entrusted LaVine Restorations, Inc., a renowned team of experts, to restore the Cord to its original specifications. The restoration process involved painstaking attention to detail, capturing the car’s elegance and ensuring every component met its 1936 factory standards.

A Masterpiece Rediscovered

Today, the fully restored Cord 812 Convertible stands as a masterpiece of automotive design and craftsmanship. It has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its status as one of the finest examples of its kind. More importantly, it serves as a symbol of Amelia Earhart’s adventurous life and pioneering legacy.

Displayed in The JBS Collection, the Cord 812 Convertible continues to captivate visitors with its stunning appearance and compelling backstory. It reminds us not only of Earhart’s achievements but also of the enduring power of preservation and the stories tied to iconic artifacts.

Amelia Earhart’s Mysterious Disappearance

In July 1937, Amelia Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, vanished during their attempt to fly around the world. Their last known transmission reported low fuel near Howland Island in the Pacific. Despite extensive searches and modern expeditions using advanced technology, no conclusive evidence of her Lockheed 10-E Electra has been found. The mystery of Earhart’s disappearance remains one of history’s most enduring puzzles.

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Conclusion: Preserving History Through Innovation

The 1937 Cord 812 Convertible is more than just a car; it’s a bridge to a bygone era, connecting us to Amelia Earhart’s groundbreaking contributions to aviation and her zest for life. Its meticulous restoration ensures that future generations can appreciate its historical significance and celebrate the indomitable spirit of one of the 20th century’s most iconic figures.