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Jan 12, 2025
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The Fast Fords of the Georgia Shaker

5 years ago
1 min read

by Michael Satterfield

His first car was a 1939 Ford coupe the cost him $200, but it was the car that Hubert Platt would learn to drive in. Later he would hone his skills as a driver running moonshine across Georgia and South Carolina in a 1950 Ford business coupe.  But while most moonshine running is associated with NASCAR, Platt would make a name for himself on the drag strip.

In the early 60s, Platt started participating in organized drag racing with a 1955 Chevy and he started to make a name for himself so that by 1963 he was sponsored by Atlanta’s Nalley Chevrolet Dealership. But GM pulled the plug on motorsports and Hubert lost his ride. Ford, however, was entering its “Total Performance” era and supplied the young driver with a 1963 1/2 427 Galaxie lightweight that was nicknamed “White Lightning.”

Platt would go on to drive for Ford until 1977, best known for his 1965 Falcon, called “Smallest Georgia Shaker.” To tell the story of this larger than life legend his son and biggest fan, Allen Platt has released the book “Hubert Platt: Fast Fords of the Georgia Shaker” which chronicles the history of the NHRA Hall of Fame champion.

Pages: 192
Size: 8.5 X 11 (inches)
Format: Paperback
Illustrations: 254 color, 173 b/w
Publisher: CarTech
ISBN: 9781613253977
Product Code: CT625

Learn more at CarTechBooks.com.

Michael Satterfield

Michael Satterfield is the founder of The Gentleman Racer, a leading automotive lifestyle site blending cars, travel, and culture. Known for its compelling storytelling and unique perspective, the site has become a go-to destination for car enthusiasts and style aficionados.

A Texan with a passion for classic cars and motorsports, Michael is also a hands-on restorer, currently working on a 1960s SCCA-spec Formula Super Vee and other project cars. As the head of the Satterfield Group, he consults on branding and marketing for top automotive and lifestyle brands, bringing his deep industry knowledge to every project.

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