If you have always wanted a specific type of car, say a Hearse? What better way than to get one that is different from all of the others. That’s what Kermit Smith did when He purchased this 1949 Chevy Barnette Hearse. Make sure to read below to find out more about the Hearse and what Kermit did.

Disclaimer: Customs N Classics does not charge for any articles. These are free and are derived from emails, chat messages and other forms of communication. The details are from the owner/trustee and are not physically verified. Should there be any issues with this story, please let us know, privately and we will do our best to correct any mistakes.

First, a little history for those of you who may have never heard of this style coach before.

According to CoachBuilt, The Guy Barnette Co. was one of Memphis’ “small 4 (Weller Bros., Barnette/Barnett, Comet/Pinner, and Memphis/Economy Coach)” professional car producers that flourished there in the 1940s-1960s. Located at 239 South Dudley St. at the intersection of Dudley & Eastmoreland Streets they specialized in Pontiac and Chevrolet professional car conversions from 1947 through 1955. “Custom-made quality at assembly line cost” was one of their many slogans. (Quoted directly from their website)

Now, on to the article. Make sure to go to the bottom for the pictures.

What type of vehicle is this?

Hearse

Make, Model, Year of Project

1949 Chevy Barnette Hearse

What stage is this in?

Somewhere between complete and not sure if it will ever get finished

When did you purchase it and for how much?

I purchased this car 4 years ago for $4000

Why did you choose this vehicle?

I have always wanted one

What sort of condition was it in when you started the project, what was wrong with it, etc.

There was a lot wrong with it.

What, specifically have you done, or had done to it?

The majority of the work has been body work.

Can you list any and all parts that you have put in?

I put in a new battery

I put in a new water pump

I put on new exhaust

Where have you purchased your parts?

The truck and car shop

What about you?

I am retired and love old cars

Before you go, check out these articles. Restoration and I’m going to fix it someday

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