Chassis No. 2015363

In establishing his automobile company in 1905, Chicago shoe manufacturing scion Charles A. Tilt wisely did not name it after himself. Instead, he borrowed the Diamond name and logo, signifying quality, from his father's firm, and added the 'T' in his own honor. Diamond T did not succeed in cars but in 1911 transitioned into trucks, and soon found a ready market for their heavy-duty vehicles, built to the highest standards using the best available materials.

Most Diamond Ts were commercial vehicles but the company did offer a production one-ton pickup, the 201, introduced in 1938 and manufactured into the early postwar era. Powered by a Hercules flathead inline six-cylinder engine with Warner Gear three-speed transmission, the 201 was a beefy, rugged beast, with a durable solid steel bed with folding tailgates, stainless steel grille, rubber-covered running boards, crank opening vee-windshield, and a toolbox under the passenger-side door. It became popularly known as 'The Cadillac of Trucks,' a moniker which the survivors wear proudly to this day; they are among the best-looking and most attractive of all American pickups.

Mr. Taylor's Diamond T 201 was acquired in February 2004, joining the fine stable of trucks in his ownership. It is a handsome older restoration, in red with a well-done burnt orange interior, and equipped with the original dashboard gauges, as well as a factory heater and dome light, correct dual vacuum wipers, sidemounted spare wheel and tire, and Diamond T side-view mirrors that add to its charming overall presentation. At the time of cataloging, it had recorded 13,500 miles.

For brawn and style, there is no better choice!