James Floyd “J. F.” Pickens

 

     J. F. Pickens was born at Peck, Sumner County, Kansas and moved to Arkansas City, Kansas in 1921.  Driving Joe Hutchinson’s Ford special, he set second quick time in time trials at Winfield, Kansas on July 28, 1928 on his way to victories in both his heat race and the main event.  In the process, he set track records for the distance in each race.

     Pickens returned to Winfield on October 9, 1928 driving Leonard E. Kerbs’ Frontenac to first place in his heat in another track record setting time.  A multi-car crash eliminated him from the feature.

     By 1930, Pickens was the official starter, referee, and American Automobile Association (AAA) representative at both Winfield and the Arkansas City Speedway in Arkansas City, Kansas.

     Pickens was sales manager of Ruckel – Kilburn Chevrolet Company in Arkansas City, Kansas from 1925 to 1936.  He later worked as a specialty advertising salesman before becoming a representative of the county accessor’s office.

     Pickens passed away at his home in Arkansas City.

     The car pictured above, is either a 1923 Chevrolet Superior Series B Utility coupe, or a 1924 Chevrolet Superior Series F two passenger, those two models being identical.

 

 

 

 

 

 Riverview Cemetery

Arkansas City, Kansas