Dix,
I see you're not far from me, in NCJOC, I'm in VJC, near Richmond. It's really *not* impossible to have wire wheels trued. If you're willing to make the drive, Hendrix Wire Wheel in Greensboro, NC is within a one day trip from you (probably). They did the wheels for my (Dad's former) XK-120 and I couldn't be happier.
For under $500 (tire cost *NOT* included), Hendrix replaced some broken spokes, trued the wheels, installed the new tires with bands and tubes (and powdered the tubes so they can move around a bit inside without the rubber to rubber friction causing excess heat), shaved the tires perfectly round, and balanced. This was for four tires (had I known how happy I'd be, I'd have included the spare).
The car rolls straight, true, and smoothly now. I am a very satisfied customer, will use their services again, and have no qualms whatsoever in recommending them. They are on the web at www.hendrixwirewheel.com. I dealt with Allen Hendrix directly - super nice guy, even gave me a tour of their shops.
Best of luck to you.