I am working a basket case project.  But that means the fun will last longer.   
I am currently working on the frame and forks, but I am gathering information for the wheels.

The rims are perfectly good except for the pieces that have rusty away in to oblivion. 
What rims do you guys use to replace old, missing or unsafe rims?  I was thinking about re-lacing the front wheel with a drum brake for added stopping power.  Is this a good idea?