wfrank@altoonamirror.com
Dan Baker works on a grille for a 1936 Ford at Alumicraft Street Rod Grilles in Bellwood. Mirror photo by Walt Frank
BELLWOOD Dan Baker says he is known as the grille guy.
“When I walk around the car shows, people say, ‘There goes the grille guy, ” said Baker, 55, owner of Alumicraft Street Rod Grilles at 550 N. Fifth St.
In 2020, Baker’s business was named National Street Rod Association’s Manufacturer of the Year.
Baker admits he was surprised by the recognition. He said there are only a few companies in the United States that manufacture hot rod grilles and grille inserts, and the other companies are much larger.