Revell Ford celebrates four generations and 75 years in business

Sep 22, 2011

Photo: Three generations of the Revell family; Harry, Betty, Nathan and Larry, at their 75 year anniversary celebration in Verona

Three of the four generations of the Revell family were on hand at in Verona on September 17 celebrating their family's 75-year-long history in the car business.

Harry and Betty Revell, son Larry and his sons Nathan (25) and Josh (23) were all present greeting customers and members of the community who came out to enjoy the live music, a BBQ lunch and an impressive display of classic Fords.

Included in the line up was a classic 1936 Ford, which was the very same year that Harry Revell’s father Wesley opened up the Verona franchise. Wesley, who first was in the grocery business, learned the retail cars sales ropes from his brother-in-law, who owned a Parham franchise before it closed down.

Harry recalled, “It was at that time in 1936 when my uncle gave up the Parham franchise that representatives from Ford came out and asked Dad if he would be interested in opening up one in Verona, and he said of course, yes.”

That was 75 years and many Ford models ago, and the rest, as they say, is history. The Saturday event demonstrated not only how families tend to grow but also how much cars have changed over the years. Lovers of the classics had a chance to peruse a number of impressive models including a 1940 Mercury convertible, a 1961 Thunderbird convertible, and a 2012- 302 Mustang and many more.

Larry Revell said he felt a celebration was in order to recognize the family’s 75 years in business but more so to thank the community for their ongoing support. “We're so fortunate that my granddad started the business here and are also very fortunate to still be here. We have great customers and great employees, both of whom have been with us for a long time. I think what makes it work for us is that we really enjoy dealing with people.”

Many of those customers have been purchasing cars from Revell’s for years and the Revells are grateful for their loyalty. “We are very thankful for them, “ Harry said. ” If we didn't have them, business would nowhere be as good as it is today.” Joining the celebration was Marco Dodara, Ford parts and service dealer sales manager, who made a special trip out for the occasion. Numerous door prizes were given out though out the day and the event followed on the heels of an employee BBQ celebration that took place earlier in the week.