Robert Cummings has two passions in life: American made cars and helping his neighbors.

Cummings lives on a piece of property on U.S. Highway 231 between Troy and Brundidge, and says he doesn’t owe any money on any of it, something he is very proud of.

“I don’t owe a dime on it,” said Cummings. “I am able to help other folks out, and get more out of it than money.”

On that property, Cummings has a small shop where he tinkers with metal works and restores old cars. He is currently prepping for a project that he has wanted to do for a while, restoring a 1929 Ford Model T and 1932 Ford Model A.

Cummings has possessed the cars for years, but is just now getting set on restoring the historic American automobiles.

“Ford Model A and Model T’s are my favorite,” said Cummings. “But I also have a ’57 Chevrolet and a ’63 ‘Vette in my garage. It’s all American. I am not a foreign car supporter.”

Under a tin barn, sits another Model T that Cumming and his brother restored and painted in red, white and blue. Cummings said that the paint choice is a tribute to the workforce of the United States.

Cummings believes that the helping someone in need “makes you feel wonderful,” and can help the country get out of the current economic recessions.

“I love this country, but I don’t like the road we are on,” said Cummings. “We need to be putting people to work and help businesses hire folks. If we can lend a hand to local folks and business, then that is less money they have to spend, and can give someone a job with that.”

After spending more than 20 years as a deputy sheriff in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Cummings came to Troy and began to help people around him because he felt that it would help the local community.

“I have an excavator, a dozier and some other equipment,” said Cummings. “I do some work for people…clearing land and digging ditches and things of that nature. I never charge anyone a penny, because I want to help folks out.

Cummings said that anyone could do some work and get paid money, but it’s the feeling of accomplishment for helping someone is unmatched.

“You could get paid, twenty or thirty dollars for a job, but that’s nothing,” said Cummings. “Helping someone out, your family, neighbors and friends feels a whole lot better than any money.”