FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vacaville, CA (February 6, 1997) - neighbors John Ford and Bill Terry will dedicate 24 days beginning April 1, 1997 to drive their hand-built replica of a 1910 George Dickel Tennessee Whisky delivery truck 2,400 miles across the country to the Dickel distillery in Tullahoma, TN.
"I wasn't sure these guys were serious when they left a message on my answering machine requesting photos and specifications for one of our original delivery trucks," laughs Chris Morris, distillery historian. "I know our whiskey is the finest, but it's sure seems like a long way to drive to get it."
Ford (50) and Terry (61), claim they are on a mission to spread the word about their favorite whiskey. "It's too hard to get Dickel out here in California. We want everyone across the country to discover what we discovered years ago. We figure it will be easier for us to get after that," says Ford.
They will leave Vacaville, CA on April 1 after a kick-off celebration at their favorite "watering hole," Chauncy's, and drive the truck they affectionately named "Oscar" across the southern United States on parts of old Route 66 and Interstate 40. They will travel 100 miles per day at approximately 35 mph, traversing 11 states. Their plans call for a little sight-seeing along the way including a drive over the suspension bridge at the Grand Canyon, driving down the lighted "strip" in Las Vegas and stops at various historic sights.
Both men have been neighbors and friends for many years and share more than just passion for their favorite spirit. Both are retired military veterans and native Tennesseans who recall their first experiences with the whiskey. "My mother used to rub it on my gums to soothe the pain of teething," jokes Ford. Terry remembers Dickel as a favorite at special family gatherings.
The two have recruited a couple of friends to help them accomplish their mission. Steve Tolson, Ford's next door neighbor, was the designated "test" driver each time they added new parts to the truck. He plans to fly out and meet the truck tem when they arrive at the distillery. Another neighbor, Ray Sugai, will drive a "chase vehicle" during the 24-day trip to provide tools, spare parts, food, and other necessary materials.
On April 24, they will arrive in Tullahoma and present "Oscar" to the Dickel distillery as a token of their loyalty to the brand.