Lucky Teter’s history framed & preserved by Jeff Zeckel

Submitted

In April, Jeff Zeckel presented now-former Hamilton County Historical Society Museum Director Sandy Lynch and Lucky Teter Rebel Run Founder Barry Dixon with a framed copy of the “Remember when…” edition featuring Lucky Teter’s life. Out of the 98 editions of “Remember when…”, the Lucky Teter page received the most awards from the Hoosier State Press Association for Graphics, Layout, and Content.

When Zeckel presented the gift, he stipulated that the framed page be hung at the Historical Society location at the Historic Jail in Noblesville for all to see. However, when the annual Rebel Run is held, weather permitting, Dixon may take the framed page to the event attaching it to an easel to display so more people can read about Teter’s life.

There is only a handful of individuals that were born and raised in Noblesville that rose to national acclaim and prominence. Earl M. “Lucky” Teter is one of those individuals. To truly appreciate Lucky, we need to go back in time.

Teter graduated from Noblesville High School in 1919 where he was an accomplished athlete. This was a time when many people across America were skeptical of automobiles. They didn’t trust them. Especially in rural America, the gasoline engine vehicles were not widely accepted. It was common to see a mix of horse and buggies or horse-drawn wagons along with automobiles around the courthouse square.

Of Zeckel’s 98 editions of his “Remember when …” feature, this one on Lucky Teter won the most awards from the Hoosier State Press Association. (Photo provided)

Lucky put a troop together called “The Hell Drivers.” They created stunts using cars and motorcycles. They did death-defying feats that thrilled audiences as they toured America. His troop pushed the limits and showed the nation what automobile and motorcycles were capable of. He was catapulted to fame after he appeared in the 1937 World’s Fair where he was acclaimed “the best stunt driver in America.”

Lucky became a folk hero across the country. He is also known for bringing his show back to his hometown. In 1936, he put on a show right down Conner Street in front of the courthouse, thrilling local crowds of citizens.

Barry Dixon deserves a tremendous amount of credit for keeping Lucky Teter’s life and legend alive. Dixon’s annual car show at Forest Park is a wonderful tribute to Lucky. This year’s Rebel Run is this coming Saturday, Sept. 5. Registration for vehicles begins at 9 a.m. Plan on coming out to Forest Park to honor Lucky’s legacy and to check out some awesome collectible vehicles.

If you or your friends have any Lucky Teter memorabilia you would like to share by donating or loaning to the Historical Society, please call (317) 319-9244.