
Bill Ricks writes: Previous owner, M. E. Powell of Soperton, told me that the car was used in the movie Murder in Coweta County starring Johnny Cash and Andy Griffith, and he bought it several years later from someone in Savannah. Powell had frequent contacts with Cash from the first time they met in the early 70s until Cash’s death. Mr. Powell said he gave the car to Tony Bush, owner of the Soperton Ice Plant Antiques store.
As of 2016, the car is no longer parked in front of the antique store. I assume it was sold.
I am not aware of the year of this model but, the GSP was started in 1937 and the cars, all 33 of them, were fords and were gun metal grey
Previous owner, M. E. Powell of Soperton, told me that the car was used in the movie “Murder in Coweta County” starring Johnny Cash and Andy Griffith, and he bought it several years later from someone in Savannah. Powell had frequent contacts with Cash from the first time they met in the early 70s until Cash’s death. Mr. Powell said he gave the car to Tony Bush, owner of the Soperton Ice Plant (antiques).
Fascinating story, Bill! Thanks!
I’ve left a message for the folks who own the store, and I hope she will be responding soon. That patrol car has a great history, but I want the owners and/or the previous owner to tell about it
That flag was not adopted by the state of Georgia until 1956. This car was probably out of commision before then.
Very good eye, Mike. You’re correct.
If you’re critical of the state flag tag, then notice that the wheels are not correct for an exact reproduction. GOOD looking restoration !
The old Georgia flag license plate adds a nice touch to this old chase car!
Brian…always enjoy your work, brother….really dug the old GA State Patrol car…awesome! cheers…rd