You can apply for a "lost title". All you have to do is have the person that you bought it from sign an affadavit (notorized bill of sale) that they sold you the car and include the price. You fill out a few forms and submit the forms and affadivit to the BMV. It goes in front of a board and is reviewed for approval or denial. On a 1930's car, I think you'd have a pretty damn good chance of approval. It's not hard to believe that the title may have been lost over a 70 year span.

These are taken directly from the BMV website (frequently asked questions): http://bmv.ohio.gov/title/title_faq.htm



Q12:
I purchased a vehicle in-state or out-of-state and the seller did not provide me with a title. I have a bill of sale. What do I do?

A12:
Contact the title division by letter. Compose a sworn notarized statement as to the facts pertaining to the purchase of the vehicle. Next, obtain a completed Out of State Inspection form. Make a copy of all papers that you have on the vehicle from the seller and mail to the Ohio BMV, Title Division, P.O. Box 16520, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6520. The inquiry will be reviewed by the Title Section and if approved, a letter of authorization will be issued.



Q31.
I purchased my vehicle from an in-state or out-of-state resident and do not have a title. I submitted my evidence to the BMV and still could not get a a title. What else can I do?

A31.
If the registrar finds the evidence insufficient, you may petition the court of common pleas for a court order ordering the clerk to issue a certificate of title.



Most times I have dealt with Ohio BMV they have been very accomodating. I even convinced them to issue me two 30-day tags for an out of state vehicle without an inspection or title. Those people that work there have to deal with a lot of crap. You'd be suprised how far a smile, a good attitude, and a little small talk will get you.

Hope this helps.... it's definitely cheaper than what they are charging for old titles these days. Just requires a little work. And it will protect your ass legally.