Back in 1998, Bill Wallace and three fellow hot rod enthusiasts had been meeting in a favorite diner in Laguna Niguel known as Ted’s Place. They spoke of chrome and steel, roaring engines and experiencing the open road in their American classic cars. It was amidst the clinking of glasses and the scent of strong coffee that an idea was born – the creation of a vintage custom car club, a brotherhood bound by their love for the sleek lines and raw power of classic automobiles.

As the days turned into nights and the nights into weeks, the Club began to take shape like a finely tuned engine. The only requirement at that time was that the vehicle needed to be an American classic car or custom hot rod made in 1957 or earlier.  This limitation was eventually lifted and now includes cars from 1972 and earlier. As membership grew over those first few years, by-laws were written, dues were established and the Club logo/graphics were designed for Club clothing and signage. South Orange County Rods and Customs was off and cruising.

Soon, classic car owners from the local South Orange County area who learned about the club began to join. With each new addition the club’s reputation grew, drawing in even more kindred spirits and their cherished American classics. Through the years the Club has grown to over 120 men and women, and now showcases over 100 of some of the most unique hot rods, customs, restomods, muscle, vintage original and vintage restored cars of various makes and models.  Today, our club members are actively involved in many car shows throughout the western United States, conduct cruises and participate in numerous charitable events. In addition to the many shows and events, we host monthly meetings for all members. And we continue to meet weekly at Ted’s Place…a testament to the enduring spirit of those four men who first dared to dream in that small diner so many years ago.