Our History A look at
White Post Restorations was founded by Bill Thompson in 1940 as a two-man repair shop for farm machinery and local cars. His son, Billy Thompson II, took over the business after Bill’s untimely passing. Billy was an antique car enthusiast and was the driving force behind White Post Restorations’ evolution as a farm repair shop to a world renowned restoration facility. In the early ‘80s, Billy also recognized a need in the industry for brake restoration services. Since then, WPR has become equally as well known for its mail-order brake sleeving and rebuilding services.
Billy was well known almost everywhere he went for his signature handle-bar mustache and infectious passion for the antique automobile industry. Over the years, he was a devoted supporter of the AACA and numerous car clubs across the world – giving of both his time and money to further the hobby. Billy passed unexpectedly in 2011, leaving his son, W.R. Thompson III, and grandson, Billy Thompson IV, at the helm.
W.R. Thompson III began working in the shop as an adolescent. After graduating from high school, he chose to accept a position in the paint and body department at White Post Restorations. He worked in this position for 12 years before being promoted to shop manager. In his current capacity as President, W.R. personally oversees the restoration projects and the daily operations of WPR’s mail-order brake sleeving and rebuilding service.
Like his father, Billy Thompson IV also “grew up” in the business, often sneaking to the shop as a young toddler (he lived next door) to visit his grandfather, father, the employees, and, of course, the cars. After college, Billy decided to pursue his passion and accept a position as a paint and body technician at White Post Restorations. Unfortunately, his grandfather’s unexpected death cut his time short as a restoration technician, as he was required to take a managerial role within the company. In his capacity as VP of Operations, Billy is responsible for project management of each restoration, including research and parts sourcing.
Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, White Post Restorations has grown from its humble beginnings to include indoor storage and work space for over 60 vehicles. We employ a staff of highly experienced restoration professionals; some of whom have been with us for over thirty years. All of us at White Post are pleased to carry on the legacy of exquisite craftsmanship that began over 75 years ago. Cars restored by White Post continue to appear on magazine covers and receive invitations to participate in the most prestigious car shows in the nation.