The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has added a piece of rock history to its collection: the 1949 Studebaker pickup truck known as "The Dred," which served as the original equipment hauler for the Grateful Dead. The truck, still adorned with its signature rainbow paint job, was once owned by Owsley Stanley, the band's famed sound engineer. It carried the band's instruments to gigs, recording sessions, and legendary parties, including the trip to Los Angeles for the recording of their debut album, The Grateful Dead.
Affectionately nicknamed by the band, The Dred was a slow, gas-guzzling vehicle that became a symbol of the early Grateful Dead era. It was frequently parked outside the band's studio in Novato or the Olympia party house. As the band's equipment grew, especially with the development of the Wall of Sound, the Studebaker was retired but never forgotten. The truck was featured in Rolling Stone magazine (November 25, 1982) and other major publications.
"Bringing The Dred to Fort Worth is like parking a piece of Woodstock in our backyard," said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "It's not just a truck. It's a time capsule. It carried the instruments that built a movement, and now it's carrying memories for Deadheads and music lovers everywhere." The truck is presented with its original patina, weathered by decades of California sun, and includes vintage registration stickers on the rear panels that hint at its post-tour life. Inside, the clear-covered bench seat and straight-six engine remain intact.
The Dred is now part of the permanent Ron Sturgeon Collection, which includes hundreds of rare vehicles and historic artifacts. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, offers free admission and parking. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the museum's website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
The DFW Car & Toy Museum, formerly known as DFW Elite Toy Museum, was founded by Ron Sturgeon in the 1980s. The museum continues to add new exhibits throughout the year and offers secure climate-controlled car storage and event facilities. It is dog-friendly and encourages photography.
