My grandfather, Ollie Morris, and I began rebuilding his rear engined dragster, The Smokin' White Owl, around 7 years ago. Unfortunately, he passed away last June before the car could be completed. Luckily, he finished the chasis before he died. We had been talking with Randy Clark at Hot Rods and Customs Stuff in Escondido to do the body. In October I met with Randy and he picked up the car from my Grandfather's house. I got a call from Randy on Monday that they will start the body! Can't wait until it's done! Dan Marvin, Owner Exeter Auto Supply
I was just looking at a video I have of Santa Ana in the early 50s. The Smokin' White Owl is there making a few passes. Super cool car. And Garlits brags about him coming up with the successful rear engined dragster. HAH!! Delighted to see its still alive and getting a new party dress.
I'd love to get a copy of that video! I was with my gradfather the last time he talked to Don. I will say that Don did invent the modern rear engine dragster. But Don told me that my Grandfather was his hero. Funny to hear that from Don. But we all have people that inspire us. I'm glad for Don, it was my Grandfather.
got started buiding the body today. Have most of the under body done, center section anyway. Some upper body panels are already cut and shaped. It is indeed an honor to re-create the work of a master, trend setting pioneer such as Ollie. I'm a sheet metal fab guy at Hotrods and projects like this only show up in dreams. This one came true... Later, Scott
"Smokin White Owl" what a bad ass name!! I remember smokin those White Owl stoogies out by the creek bank as a kid. I would snag a couple from my Mom's cafe and we would lay out by the creek gettin dizzy off them!! White Owls, my first wacky weed! ~Sololobo~
Really glad this famous car will be around again. I never saw it run, but when working for Blair's, I made a pickup at McCleod Clutches, and while waiting for the order, I wandered into a side room and there was the Smokin' White Owl, painted black now and with no motor, but I recognized it right away since it was so unique and featured in HRM. I always wondered what happened to it. This will be a great memorial to one of drag racing's great builder/driver, Ollie Morris.
I sat in the original car when I was a kid and Ollie was a neighbor of mine in S.A. Cool to see it being rebuilt.
The Jalopy Journal
