This particular 1974 Cadillac DeVille can only be classified as eccentric.
White, with a pink top and pink pinstriping, it belonged to Elvis Presley.
The title of one of his biggest hits ably describes the vehicle: “All Shook Up.”
The eye-catching, custom-made “lost car” will be showcased Wednesday, Aug. 19, on “Elvis Cruise Night” in downtown Whiting.
The long and lean Cadillac is marketed as a “lost car” because it surfaced only recently after being purchased three months after Presley’s 1977 death, and placed in private ownership.
The big-and-bold status symbol finally emerged with a splash when it was unveiled publicly in December at the Volo Auto Museum in Volo, Ill.
“We’re the first city to have it,” said Norb Dudzik, an events coordinator for the city of Whiting. “No one else has had it out before.”
Scheduled to be parked on Oliver Street, just off of 119th Street, the throwback curiosity comes with an interesting history.
It was purchased by Elvis in September 1974 for slightly more than $17,000.
A chief function was transportation to the airport, according to the Volo Auto Museum, which purchased it.
Dudzik said Whiting is renting the Cadillac from the museum for the cruise night.
Originally a four-door sedan, the vehicle was transformed to embody a station-wagon feature that made it ideal for hauling luggage.
The vehicle likewise carries the logo — and motto — of Presley’s personal entourage: Taking Care of Business.
“It has TCB on the side,” Dudzik noted.
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It also has only logged about 8,000 miles, and was one of five Cadillacs that Elvis purchased at a dealership on the same day.
Running 5 to 9 p.m., “Elvis Cruise Night” features a slew of other vintage rides that will line the downtown area.
“We’ll have cars on both sides of 119th Street,” Dudzik said.
Additionally, Elvis tribute artist Steve Hunt will sing hits of “The King” on Temple Court, near Center Lounge on 119th Street.
“I’ve been doing it for about 13 years,” Hunt said in a recent phone interview.
“I do the ’70s — the Vegas era.”
Using a production manager and sound engineer, Hunt prides himself in being part of a team that connects with audience members.
“We’re more personable than a lot of tribute acts out there,” he said.
Songs scheduled to be performed include “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel” and “Suspicious Minds.”
Bob Kostanczuk is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.
‘Elvis Cruise Night’
Where: Downtown Whiting, 119th Street and Indianapolis Boulevard
When: 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19
Admission: Free
Information: www.whitingindiana.com or 219-384-7147