New headlights for Studios' iconic Hudson Hornet

By Hayley Thomas

Anyone who’s strolled through the big, glass doors at Studios on the Park — Paso’s ever-changing artist co-op — has noticed the shiny, blue front end of a Hudson Hornet car positioned up-front and center.

There’s a reason for that.

“Studios on the Park is housed in an iconic building with a long automotive history,” said Studios on the Park Director Sasha Irving. “In 1938, it became the Reinke Hudson Packard Dealership, which was a cornerstone of Paso Robles commerce for 22 years. In 1960, the building changed hands and became an auto parts store, which was operated by Harold Wing and then Steve Encell, until the 2003 San Simeon Earthquake.”

The front end of the car located at Studios on the Park -- taken from a classic Hudson Hornet -- now has working headlights thanks to Joseph Souza of Atascadero.

According to Irving, Souza recently donated 15 hours toward the project, designing, building, and installing new headlights, blinkers and blue neon.

Irving said it's wonderful to have the Hudson Hornet front end restored. She noted its storied past.

"For many years, it was a signature of the Hudson's Grill restaurant in San Luis Obispo," she said. "It was donated to Studios on the Park by Laurie and Rob Rossi and continues to enchant visitors of all ages."

For more information, visit www.studiosonthepark.org