Historic vehicle owned by Civil Rights Leader Whitney J. Young, Jr. Vehicle was purchased at the Barrett Jackson Auction in West Palm Beach where it was the Haggerty Fantasy Car Bid of the Day. Prior to purchase it was a one family car. This car was given to Whitney J. Young, Jr., Civil Rights leader and adviser to several Presidents by the Ford Motor Company. His family lovingly preserved the car after his untimely death in a swimming accident in Nigeria in 1971. His body was flown back to the U.S. on Air Force One and President Nixon provided the Eulogy at his memorial. His family cherished and preserved the vehicle after his death. Mr. Young's contributions to the social development of our country are commemorated by a US Postage Stamp in his likeness issued in 1981, awards in his name issued by the Boy Scouts of America, the designation of his home as a National Historic Site. Numerous Academic Awards and Buildings are named in his honor including Michele Obama's High School. He is solely credited with making the National Urban League a success. The car is a gorgeous turquoise 2 door coupe with black vinyl roof and black interior. Approximately 52,000 original miles, 315 CID engine, automatic transmission, high back bucket seats, center console, and air conditioning. This is 1 of only 2 X-Plan Cougars manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. After purchase the car underwent a complete reconditioning including rebuilding the transmission, replacing all belts and seals and A/C compressor. New Wheels and tires were also added along with a new headliner and side panels. The original wheel covers are also included. The vehicle comes with an array of memorabilia pertaining to Mr. Young including a PBS Documentary video on his life, books written both by and about him, photographs, postage stamp, a Memorial Tribute Album featuring solos by Leontyne Price. The car comes with a complete Marti Report documenting the Ford Motor Company Production details.
