“Highway Patrol,” the iconic TV show that aired from 1955 to 1959, wasn’t just about crime drama; it was also a showcase of mid-1950s Highway Car Fashion. The series, starring Broderick Crawford as Chief Dan Mathews, offered viewers a weekly dose of action alongside a parade of classic American automobiles that defined the era’s automotive style. These weren’t just any cars; they were symbols of power, freedom, and the burgeoning car culture that was sweeping the nation.
The show prominently featured vehicles that became synonymous with law enforcement and the open road. While “Highway Patrol” initially used actual 1955 Buick Century California Highway Patrol (CHP) cars, they later transitioned to using modified Buicks and other makes, styled to resemble CHP vehicles. This shift didn’t diminish the impact of the cars; instead, it highlighted the stylistic trends in automotive design that were capturing the public’s imagination.
Among the stars of the show, besides Crawford himself, were the 1955 Buick Century and the 1955 Plymouth Belvedere. The Buick Century, often driven by Chief Mathews, embodied the powerful and sophisticated aesthetic of the mid-fifties, with its bold chrome accents and sweeping lines. The Plymouth Belvedere, frequently seen in the hands of the “bad guys,” represented another facet of 1950s car design, showcasing the variety and dynamism of automotive fashion at the time.
Beyond the specific makes and models, “Highway Patrol” also subtly highlighted the “souped up” car culture that was gaining traction. Terms like “souped up,” “moon discs,” and “glass packs,” mentioned in relation to the era, evoke a time of customization and personal expression through automobiles. This culture, though not explicitly the focus of the show, was an undeniable undercurrent, influencing the perception of cars and driving in the 1950s.
The cars of “Highway Patrol” were more than just props; they were reflections of a specific moment in time when automotive design was reaching new heights of style and innovation. They represent a significant chapter in highway car fashion, capturing the essence of an era when cars were not just transportation, but symbols of status, personality, and the open road itself. Watching “Highway Patrol” today offers a nostalgic glimpse into this stylish past, reminding us of the enduring appeal of classic car fashion.
