The History of Kustoms of America (KOA)
Founding and Early Years
Kustoms of America (KOA) was established in 1946 by George Barris, a pioneer in the custom car world, famous for creating some of the most iconic custom vehicles in American pop culture. The club was originally an extension of the Kustoms of Los Angeles, a more exclusive group that catered to owners of Barris-customized cars. The KOA was designed to be more inclusive, welcoming a wider range of custom car enthusiasts from across the United States and around the world.
Membership and Activities
KOA quickly grew in popularity, offering members various benefits like custom car decals, jackets, plaques, and access to a catalog featuring discounted parts and accessories. A newsletter provided updates on the latest trends in car customization featured stories about members’ vehicles, and shared insights from the Barris Kustoms shop. This newsletter helped foster a sense of community among members, uniting custom car enthusiasts from as far away as Hawaii, Cuba, and Argentina.
Despite its growing membership, KOA had a somewhat informal structure. Many members joined primarily for the prestige associated with the Barris name and the unique merchandise, rather than for regular meetings or organized events.
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Revival and Decline
In the early 1990s, KOA experienced a revival led by Barry David. However, this second iteration struggled to regain the momentum of the original. The club changed hands several times, with Jim Hibbs and Paul Spillman eventually taking over, but it began to fade out in the early 2000s. The club’s magazine, Styleline, which had been a crucial part of its identity, was downsized and eventually ceased publication following the deaths of Hibbs and Spillman.【CustomCarChronicle】
The Club’s Return
Recently, KOA has been revived once again, with a renewed commitment to supporting custom car enthusiasts worldwide. The club aims to reconnect with its roots while embracing new generations of car customizers. With a focus on inclusivity and global reach, KOA is back and ready to support custom car culture, bringing together enthusiasts from all corners of the globe. The revival includes an embrace of modern digital platforms to connect with a broader audience.
Legacy
KOA’s legacy is deeply rooted in its role as a unifying force in the custom car community. The club has played a significant part in the history of custom car culture, reflecting the passion and creativity that defined an era. Now, with its revival, KOA is poised to continue this legacy, inspiring and supporting custom car enthusiasts for generations to come.
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