Photographer Jim Schantz documented the gradual deterioration of car 453 as it stood in the elements at the flea market end of the French Market.  The top picture of this set was taken in 1973, right after the car was installed at this spot.  Note the gleaming paint job.  The next picture was taken a mere two years later; the varnish has worn off, and the paint looks quite dull.  The last two pictures were taken in 1978.  The paint is worn and patchy, and both wood and metal parts are showing deterioration (bottom picture). — Photos by Jim Schantz