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I sure that some of you know already about the passing on of Beverly Rae Kimes.

I had not realized that Beverly Kimes had died until I was reading the New York Times, in which her obituary was printed.

My grandson and I had the great pleasure of being able to talk to Beverly Kimes on two occasions. One of the proud moments in my life happened two years ago. At the time I got a post card in the mail from Beverly Kimes commending me on some research work that I had done on the English auto the Invicta. The letter I had written her on the Invicta was published in a CCCA publication.

John F. Shireman

As I am not so much into cars of the Classic era, I only know of Beverly Rae Kimes through her work on the book, Packard: A History of the Motorcar and Company.

As best I recall, she picked up the reigns on that work in midstream, and there aren't many people who would dare take on a project of that scope and magnitude at such point.

Of course, Packard's history was so rich that no one could have accomplished such a work alone, but the end result of her efforts in combining the content from so many authors and other contributors to complete that project will forever stand as one of the great literary achievements in the hobby.

That this book returned to print in recent years speaks volumes.

I had the pleasure of meeting and talking with her a few years ago at a CCCA meet in San Jose, CA. She was most pleasant. I noticed that she was fumbling with her glasses, and she commented that her eyesight suffered after editing the Packard book. There was a tight deadline and she had to spend many hours reviewing galley proofs. I have a copy of the Packard book and have ordered her new one on classic automobiles.

Hi Fellow Devotees

Some years ago I purchased a first edition (complete with certificate) of Beverly Kimes book on Packard when it was first available. It has been an excellent book to show visitors, who may not have any idea what a Packard is, of the vast proud history and range of models. It has also given me a far better understanding of the respect for Packard in the US and the loss of such a mighty icon.

The completed work by Beverly Kimes on Packard is of great importance to your culture and to anyone interested in automotive history or hobby.

We have all lost a gifted author and historian.

I think the most important book that Beverly Kimes help write and put together was The Standard Catalog of American Cars 1805 to 1942. Which I purchased a couple of years ago for less that $50.00. Which I now understand is selling for around $400.00 a copy.

John F. Shireman

John, I was sleeping at the switch last night when one of 2nd edition paperback the Kimes Standard Catalogue of American Cars 1805-1942 sold for $26!

Speaking of icons, does anyone know of any definitive sources for biographical information on Colonel Vincent? I have noted that information, other than references to automotive, marine, aeronautical, patent and other technical publications, there seems to be very little biographical information available in easily accessed public domains other than the occasional brief piece in the two Packard Club publications.