October 2023 | Volume 178

AACA National Staff


CEO

Steve Moskowitz

 

Membership & Merchandise

Karen White

 

Accounting, IT & Website

Pat Buckley

 

Advertising & Marketing

Speedster Editor

Stacy Zimmerman


Antique Automobile Magazine Editor

West Peterson


Office Administration

Lori Shetter - membership/merchandise

Susan Eitnier - regions & chapters, insurance

Jon Curtis - awards


AACA Library Staff


Director

Jen Wolfe


Cataloger & Volunteer Coordinator

Matthew Hocker


Reference Librarian

& Outreach Coordinator

Amoi Goldman

QUICK LINKS:

AACA Website

AACA Library

AACA Forums

AACA Merchandise

AACA Judging Guidelines

AACA National
Headquarters address:
800 W. Hersheypark Dr.
Hershey, PA 17033
Join Our Email List

Hershey Memories

By Stacy Zimmerman, Speedster Editor, [email protected]

My parents tell me that my first Hershey show was when I was just 3 years old. They said they took turns pushing me around the flea market and car show in my stroller. As you can imagine, I’ve heard lots of stories.


My mom’s favorite stories usually revolve around her sorority’s involvement in the show. Apparently, back in the seventies there weren’t lots of fancy food trucks like today. Much of the food during Hershey week was provided by local community groups. My mom has shared tales of loading up her station wagon with thousands of donuts from the local bakery to sell to the early morning crowds. The members of her sorority would also gather in the summertime to shuck, cook and cut corn to freeze for the corn chowder they would make and sell at lunchtime to the hungry attendees.


My dad often talks about the deals and steals he would get in the flea market, as well as all the awesome finds he never knew he needed. We have conversations all the time about what cars he and my mom owned and which ones he sold to buy other ones. He always likes to remind me that he had to sell his Corvette for the money to build my parents' house. But the story he loves telling me the most is one that involves the “mud years” of course! He took his friend Dave to the show for the first time, and he wore loafers or something of the such. (Who wears loafers to Hershey?) Anyway, my dad laughs every time he explains how Dave lost one of his loafers in the mud and had to hobble around the flea market all day in one super muddy loafer and one super dirty sock.


I love working for AACA and am proud to be part of this big car-loving family. I have worked for AACA for almost 10 years and now have 10 years of my own experiences and memories from Hershey. Many of you have 3, 4, 5 or even 6 times as many years of memories than me. They are most likely all filled with fun, laughter and good times made with your AACA friends for life. I’m sure many of you even have some crazy can-you-believe-that-happened stories, too! I also love that I now have my own traditions during Hershey. Sure, during the day I am busy working at one of our merchandise stands, but my evenings have become filled with dinners and gatherings with several groups of AACA members who have become truly special friends.


All I know is that I am genuinely grateful for all of the wonderful experiences and friends that I have made along this journey and especially the memories we make together during Hershey week. And I’m positive you all feel exactly the same way I do.


If you would like to share one of your favorite Hershey memories or traditions with everyone, please send me an email – just a few sentences and one photo if you wish – and I will be glad to share them in the next issue of Speedster. I can’t wait to read them all!


Only what… like 342 days until

Hershey 2024, right?!

Hershey Thank You & Congratulations

The biggest THANK YOU imaginable

goes out to all of the volunteers and the

leadership team from the Hershey Region!

Without you, Hershey would not happen.

 

THANK YOU to the vendors, judges, staff,

Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, AACA Board

and all of the members who showed cars!

Without all of you, Hershey would not be the

largest and best antique car event of the year.

 

THANK YOU to all of you for

showing up to enjoy the show!

Without you, there’s no reason to have Hershey.

 


Finally, a big congratulations to all of our winners!!

Click the above link to view the Hershey winners list.

What Did You See at Hershey?

Enjoy a few photos from Hershey Week, and remember to check out the

complete wrap-up article and even more photos in the

November/December issue of Antique Automobile magazine...


Photos courtesy of these AACA members:

Michael Rubinstein, MichaelRubinsteinPortfolio.com, Jen Wolfe, AACA Library Director, and Stacy Zimmerman, AACA Communications & Marketing Director.

 

Also, if you weren’t able to make it to the Hershey car show this year, check out

this great video from AACA member Benjamin Dolloff from Dolloff Antiques Garage.

Evolution of the Hershey Fall Meet Wooden Nickel

By Scott Kopp, 2023 Hershey Fall Meet Chairperson, [email protected]

The wooden nickel changed in 2023. It evolved from displaying the next four Fall Meet dates to displaying the next two Fall Meet dates. Changes to the wooden nickel is not a new concept. In 2022, the wooden nickel went from four future dates to three dates. Prior to 2022, the wooden nickels had four years of up-coming Fall Meet dates.


Why does the wooden nickel change? It’s basically one of the “executive” decisions that the Fall Meet Chairman makes. This year, the Fall Meet Chairman decided the wooden nickel would have two lines of dates to make it easier for aging eyes to read.

 

Will the wooden nickel change again? It’s definitely a possibility. As the Hershey Region reviews previous Fall Meet items and plans changes that will improve our visitors’ experience, the wooden nickel and other aspects of the Fall Meet will come under review and face the possibility of change.

Please Help us Stop the Hershey Rumor Mill

By Steve Moskowitz, AACA National CEO, [email protected]

It seems no matter what we say, rumors about the Hershey event continue to be spread by those who do not have all the facts.


The first rumor we need to set aside is that the car show, flea market and car corral are NOT ending in two years. Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) has confirmed that the current arrangement is working well, and we expect to have this great event for many years to come, which includes keeping our Friday car show.


Secondly, any suggestion of moving the event to another location is FALSE. It is not happening.


Please folks, help us squash these rumors as they damage the Hershey Region, AACA National and HE&R. The Hershey Region’s leadership has had direct contact with HE&R and their commitment to us is unwavering.

Still Looking to Get This Year’s Official Hershey Poster?

Did you forget to pick up this year’s official Hershey poster while you were here? Did you “misplace” your poster while you were wondering around the flea market? Were you unable to make the trek to Hershey this year, but would still love to get a poster? Well, you are in luck! We happen to have a small supply of this year’s poster remaining.


World-renowned automotive artist David Snyder received the honor of creating this unique work of art gracing the official 2023 Hershey poster. The posters are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $25, plus $10 shipping.


Please send an email with your order to Lori at [email protected] or give us a call at 717-534-1910 (M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ET). 

Hershey Is Over, But Not Forgotten

By Jen Wolfe, AACA Library Director, [email protected]

Well, that was a high that’s hard to come down from! My first Hershey may be behind me, but the excitement and memories are still fresh in my mind as I re-cap the library’s involvement in 2023.

This year the library executed a very ambitious plan to sell duplicate material all week long, in an effort to help free up space in our facility for future donations. The Yard Sale diversified itself to include sales literature, shop manuals, reference books, and other miscellaneous items, while simultaneously allowing visitors the opportunity to walk away with more material than ever by adding the new Fill-A-Bag promotion. We weren’t sure how this new feature would go over, but I’m happy to report that buyers loved it!


We were so pleased to have the Buick Heritage Alliance and the Society of Automotive Historians’ authors with us this year as event partners. Tuesday evening was blessed with beautiful weather (maybe too beautiful – it was warm), and amazing attendance, with everyone showing excitement for the materials, patience while waiting in line, and enthusiasm for visiting with library staff and volunteers while buying. The best part of these events is seeing familiar faces and catching up with friends, and it was gratifying to see so many people in conversation with staff and volunteers. It was a fun night, and the library staff are very grateful to everyone who came out to help support the library’s future!


As a follow-up to the Yard Sale, staff offered the rest of the literature and shop manuals for sale in the library itself on Wednesday and Thursday. This offered visitors another chance to buy (particularly for those who could not attend Tuesday evening), while increasing the library’s fundraising efforts by extending the sale for 2 additional days – a decision we’re so happy we made because the feedback was incredibly positive! We finished up by bringing back the book only sale on Friday during the car show, since it was so successful in 2022. All told, the library raised almost $19,000 during Hershey, bringing us astoundingly close to last year’s total of about $23,000 (an outlier in terms of average income for the library during the Fall Nationals).


Additionally, the library was open for research Monday through Thursday of Hershey week, and staff assisted with a total of 98 in-person research requests from visitors – that’s more research in 4 days than we complete in our busiest month of the year! Again, visitors were patient as library staff and volunteers pulled material from the archives, assisted with searches, gave tours of the library, and accepted incoming material donations. We thought the nice weather would keep everyone outside, so it was a pleasant surprise to see so many make the time to visit the library during the week.


We want to thank every volunteer who helped in all the hundreds of ways they do; we simply could not have done it without you!


On a personal note, I’ve had trouble putting into words the experience I had at the Fall Nationals. With the help of AACA staff, directors, and members from all over the world, I was able to see pieces of almost every aspect of the event throughout the week. While I recognize that there is a lot of talk about the car show changing, the swap meet looking sparser than in past years, and the complications with the change of schedule, I hope that it’s not lost on anyone that for someone seeing the show for the very first time – it’s astonishing to see and the magnitude of it intense. The size of it all, the volume of people attending, and the sheer amount of vehicles, parts, and memorabilia was a lot to take in. I can’t speak to what the show looks like compared to 5 years, 10 years, or 20 years ago…but I can tell you that from the standpoint of a first-time attendee, it was a sight to behold…I’ve simply never seen anything like it. The AACA staff can attest to the fact that the number of times the phrase “This is amazing!” came out of my mouth was almost comical. It became a common sight to see me standing there, huge grin on my face, whispering “unbelievable” throughout the week.


Finally, almost a full year into my time here, I made it to Hershey…and the countdown for next year begins again…

Interested in becoming a volunteer with the AACA Library?

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Matthew Hocker,

at [email protected] or 717-534-2082.

 

Interested in doing research with the AACA Library?

More information is available on our website.

Visit AACA Library or contact our Reference Librarian, Amoi Goldman,

at [email protected] or 717-534-2082.

 

Visit our Booth at Black Swan Antiquities

Undying Charm of Classic Cars:

RM Sotheby’s Sells 96% of All Lots in Hershey

By Kate Clendenning, RM Sotheby’s, [email protected]

Photo Credit: ©2023 Courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

RM Sotheby’s returned to the Hershey Lodge for its 17th annual sale in Hershey, Pennsylvania, during the AACA Eastern Fall Nationals. The sale realized a total of $10,675,350 in sales with 96% of lots sold over the two-day auction.

 

"The Hershey sale and swap meet is a staple of the collector car industry. These cars are all unique, many hand-built, standing in stark contrast to high-production modern cars; there truly is nothing like them in the world. Even as modern classics continue to gain traction in the market, there will always be a profound desire to own the classic cars that are offered in Hershey. We take pride in providing a space where passionate collectors can come together. Sales totaled $10.6M with an impressive sell-through rate of 96.33% over the two-day event, underscoring the enduring appeal and demand for such exceptional vehicles. The results unequivocally showcase the thriving market for these unparalleled automobiles," stated Jake O’Gorman, Car Specialist, RM Sotheby’s.

Highlights

 

Wednesday night’s auction saw 163 lots go under the hammer, with the 1954 Hudson Italia, the first of 25 production examples of the Touring-bodied Italian-American dream car, the top selling car of the night. Acquired by the consignor’s uncle in 1980 and offered publicly for the first time since new, the car crossed the block wearing a gently patinaed older restoration in correct cream over a red and white interior with Borrani wire wheels, selling well over its pre-auction estimate for $495,000.

 

Not far behind the Hudson, and also fresh to market, the 1933 Auburn Twelve Salon Speedster also sold for more than its pre-auction estimate. Offered for the first time in over three decades, this CCCA Full Classic went to its new owner presented in metallic blue with a silver hood and beltline over black leather and restored as a Speedster with desirable Salon appointments, including “bowtie” front bumper and sweeping front fenders with chrome trim. The exceptionally presented Auburn sold for $385,000.

 

Concluding worthy mentions of the Wednesday evening sale is the result for the 1947 Cadillac Series 62 Convertible Coupe, selling for $90,750, 72% over its high estimate, proving the Series 62 Convertible Coupes truly remain amongst the most popular and sought-after of post-war Cadillacs.

Thursday night’s auction saw 158 lots cross the block, with the formidable 1909 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP Silver Ghost Roi des Belges in the style of Barker selling as the top lot of the night. Offered in a beautifully restored condition and having seen limited exhibition and road use since its completion, this early Ghost realized a strong result, selling for $698,500.

 

Trailing closely behind, and rarer than its sister Speedster model, the authentic, genuine V-12 1934 Auburn Twelve Salon Cabriolet, one of only 27 produced and one of only five known survivors, sold as the second top car of the night for $440,000.

 

And, of course, lastly, the 1908 Stanley Model F Side-Entrance Touring, a crowd favorite as it took to the block at full steam with horn blazing, sold well above its pre-auction estimate at $286,000.

 

For discerning collectors and enthusiasts, Hershey has long been hailed as one of the ultimate venues for acquiring truly unique automotive parts and memorabilia since the inception of the AACA’s Annual Fall Meet, and the exceptional results of two private collections of memorabilia at this year’s sale speak for themselves. Highlights include the Stinson Model 2000M "King William" Mobile Orchestra in Trailer selling for $80,500, the ‘5 Miles to the Gallon’ by Stanley Wanlass, 1986 selling for $29,900, and the ‘Street Encounter’ by Stanley Wanlass, 1988 selling for $19,550.

Important Numbers

 

  • Total sold: $10,675,350
  • Sell-through rate: 33%
  • Number of lots sold over high estimate: 76
  • Number of registered bidders: 548
  • Number of first-time bidders: 112
  • Bidders hailed from 17 countries and 39 states

Top 10 Lots -- View complete results here.

 

  1. 1909 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP Silver Ghost Roi des Belges -- $698,500
  2. 1954 Hudson Italia by Touring -- $495,000
  3. 1934 Auburn Twelve Salon Cabriolet -- $440,000
  4. 1933 Auburn Twelve Salon Speedster -- $385,000
  5. 1926 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Piccadilly Roadster -- $308,000
  6. 1908 Stanley Model F Side-Entrance Touring -- $286,000
  7. 1933 Packard Super Eight Coupe Roadster -- $253,000
  8. 1903 Thomas Model 18 Rear-Entrance Tonneau -- $220,000
  9. 1933 Packard Twelve Convertible Victoria -- $214,500
  10. 1931 Cadillac 370-A V-12 Roadster by Fleetwood -- $187,000

LAST CHANCE TO VOTE!!!

2024 AACA National Board of Directors Election

In the September/October edition of Antique Automobile is a postpaid ballot for the 2024 Board of Directors election. It is your ONLY ballot and must be filled out according to the instructions or it will not be counted.

 

Please read the biographies of all the candidates listed in the magazine and vote for the 7 of your choice. Our candidates this year come from widely different backgrounds, so please give serious consideration to those who match your ideas of what is important to the future of the club. All ballots must have 7 names selected or they will be considered "not valid" and will not be counted.


Your ballot must be postmarked by November 15, 2023.

Do You Know Anyone Deserving of an AACA Scholarship?

Application Deadline: December 1


Susquehannock Region Automotive Technology Scholarship (formerly known as the AACA Student Scholarship): Cash award to a student currently enrolled in an institution of higher learning leading up to a degree in antique automotive technology and or restoration.

AACA Young People’s Award: A cash award to an AACA member (student or regular) who has been accepted into an accredited institution of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution, i.e., a four-year college leading to a bachelor’s degree or a two-year vocational education program leading to a degree. Applicant must be nominated by a Region or Chapter of AACA and must be no more than 25 years old.

AACA Scholarship: A cash award to any AACA member (student or regular) who has been accepted to an accredited institution of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution, i.e., a four-year college leading to a bachelor’s degree or a two-year vocational education program leading to a diploma. Applicant must be no more than 25 years old.

Louise Bianchi Chiotti Memorial Scholarship Award: Louise (Bianchi) Chiotti was born on June 11, 1914, in San Jose, California. The family’s first automobile was a 1926 Dodge Sedan. Her two younger brothers purchased a 1939 Studebaker and took delivery in January 1939. They wanted to give it to Louise’s son Dave in 1956. His mother thought it too big of a car for a fifteen-year-old in San Francisco and talked him into buying a 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. In 1959 the little Model A was a bit slow, so Dave purchased a 1959 Ford convertible. As Dave sat on the running board of the Ford waiting for the new owner to arrive his mom came and sat next to him. “You really don’t want to sell it do you?” she asked. “NO, I don’t” was my reply.” “Then don’t,” mom said. Dave and Marilyn Chiotti still own the Model A; it is a Senior and First Place Grand National Award Winner. The 1939 Studebaker came to the Chiottis after spending 40 years under a walnut tree. It is now a Senior and First Place Grand National Award Winner. The 1926 Dodge was cut into a truck for ranch use in the 1940s. Dave brought it home in 1976 and built a Woodie. In 2000, they donated it to Luther Burbank Home & Gardens in Santa Rosa. After Dave and Marilyn’s uncle’s passing, they acquired their 1968 Cadillac El Dorado. It now lives in the AACA Museum in Hershey, PA. This $1,500 scholarship is based upon the same rules as the AACA Automotive Technology Award and is awarded as funds are available. It was instituted and funded by Dave and Marilyn Chiotti as a way to honor Louise and a way to continue to support youth in the hobby.

AACA John & Janet Ricketts Leadership Scholarship: A cash award to any AACA member, child or grandchild of an active AACA member in good standing for a least 5 years, who has been accepted to an institute of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution. The award is granted by the family of John and Janet Ricketts in recognition of their love of AACA and their belief in service to the club. It is also in recognition of our first female National President Janet Ricketts in 1999.

Hershey Region AACA Automotive Restoration Scholarship: Cash award to an AACA member currently enrolled in an institution of higher learning leading up to a degree in antique automotive restoration.
Please scroll all the way to the end of Speedster to find the answer.
Trivia Question

What was the

Dearborn Motors Corporation

and what type of products

did they produce?

Member Story: 1971 Two-Door Maverick Grabber

By Molly J. and Perry W. Stump, Bucyrus, OH, [email protected]

This is a member submitted article.

This sporty Maverick Grabber painted Grabber Green caught the eye of my father on a summer day in 1971. My sister and I had gotten our driver’s licenses, and my father really did not want to share his vehicle. I was surprised when he wanted to take it for a test drive at the local Ford dealership, Dan Wingate Ford in Bucyrus, Ohio. My father took delivery of the Maverick Grabber on August 13, 1971, for a cash price of $2,800. The dealership added the bumper guards. The invoice was initialed “Paid in Full” by Dan Wingate, Jr. as the salesman. Dan was co-owner of the dealership with his father. My husband, Perry W. Stump, later worked for the dealership until it closed on May 14, 1981.

 

This vehicle was the first car that my father had purchased with an automatic transmission, as he had always preferred standard-shift vehicles. The car was used sparingly but was driven in any weather. My father always kept his garage heated in the winter, and this helped to keep the car from rusting. The car was named “The Grabber” and for many years was kept in the “Grabber Stall.” My father tried to keep the dust off the car but never covered it. He replaced the tires at some time with radials because he thought the originals were dry-rotted and not safe. The original unused spare tire, along with the jack and lug wrench, are still in the trunk. The car has a few nicks, but the paint is original and has only been buffed to regain the shine. The points, plugs, fuel pump, hoses, belts, exhaust and tires are the only things that have been replaced since the car was new.

 

My father tried to sell the car in the late 1990s, but the man who was interested complained about something concerning the car that upset my dad, so he refused to sell it to him at any price. He never would say what was said. The Grabber sat in the garage until 2002. While working in the garage one day with my husband, my dad mentioned again that he wanted to sell the car. He said it was not being driven anymore and was just in the way. My husband, Perry, said the car was sold, and he would tell him later who bought it. Perry then went into my parents’ house where I was talking with my mom and told me that we had just bought a car, “The Grabber.” My mom and dad were both surprised, but glad the car was remaining in the family. Perry and I took the car to our home that evening, to another heated garage. At that time, the car had 16,476 miles on it.

 

In 2003, when Ford Motor Company was having its 100-year centennial celebration, my husband entered the car to be shown in the back lot of the World Headquarters. On the weekend before we planned on trailering the car to Detroit, we were waxing and cleaning the car in the garage. We received a call from a lady with the company in charge of planning the show for Ford. She asked if we were still planning on coming to the show, and if we could stay all week. We said, yes, we were planning on making a weeks’ vacation of it. She then asked if we would be interested in displaying the car in a special 101-car display representing a car from each year of manufacture. The lady said Ford would provide a sign with our names as the owners and provide 24-hour security. My husband told the lady that she should talk to me, since I was the actual owner of the car. When the lady asked me about this, I could not believe it. I, of course, said yes. My husband also told her that my name should be listed first on the sign since the car was really mine.

While at the centennial celebration, we were offered and accepted the chance to drive the Grabber around the Ford test track/old air strip to benefit charity with a donation. While slowly driving and being led by a Ford employee on the test track, there was a Ford Tri-Motor airplane sitting on the old airfield. Very few non-test cars are allowed on the test track, so this was quite an opportunity for the few people given this chance.

 

The Detroit Free Press had a special section in the paper during the centennial with the 101 cars on display, so we purchased several issues to take home. Several people from our hometown of Bucyrus, Ohio, were at the centennial and some posed with the car to take pictures, including Perry’s former high school auto mechanics teacher, Hugh Black. Later we found out that the Detroit Free Press had made posters of the 101-car display, so we purchased several for friends and relatives. We still have a few of these posters. After we returned home, the local newspaper included an article about the car being at the Ford 100-year celebration, including a picture of the car at the centennial.

 

We have displayed the car at many car shows and won numerous awards. We are frequently approached by people who remember having a Maverick or a friend or relative who had a Maverick that they loved. We entered the car in the Ford Mercury Restorers show in Dearborn, Michigan, in 2003. The class the car was entered in also included a Chevelle and a Cutlass 442, both restored. The Grabber placed first in its class, and the other owners were not happy. The car also won Editor’s Choice in the Springfield Cars & Parts show in Springfield, Ohio, several times. The Grabber won awards at a local Troyers Restaurant Car Show, except for the one time when Perry’s 1969 Fairlane won. The Grabber also won an award in the 2003 Ford Elyria, Ohio, Assembly Plant Centennial Show. It also won an award at the Maverick Comet Club meet in Indiana. At the Maverick show, several people were crawling under it, examining the engine compartment, etc. Some wanted to buy it. At the AACA Auburn, Indiana, show, the car won its first HPOF award, and then a second HPOF award the following year. This was the last show in which we entered the car.

 

We also have a Marti Report for the car. My husband was the top Ford Auto & Light Truck ASE technician in the United States for the year 1991, so “The Grabber” has always had excellent care. We drive the car occasionally, but it now sits in the garage most of the time. We are now both retired, so hopefully it will be driven more often. The Grabber’s odometer turned over 22,000 miles in November of 2020.

It’s Time to Renew Your AACA Membership for 2024

By Karen White, AACA Membership Department, [email protected]

As most of you know, your AACA membership runs for a calendar year – January 1 through December 31. From now through the end of the year, AACA Headquarters gets a little crazy with membership renewal phone calls and mail. It's not uncommon for us to receive several hundred renewals in a day. Even though it's our busiest time of the year, making sure we get our 45,000+ members renewed is always our top priority.


If you have already renewed your membership for 2024, thank you!!


A membership renewal form was included with your September/October issue of Antique Automobile magazine. If you haven't already renewed your 2024 membership there will be a second renewal form with your November/December issue. Simply fill out the form and send it back to the office with a check or credit card information.


You can also use our new and improved online renewal on our website. Renewing online is quick and easy! Just log in with your membership number and pin number, review the information currently listed on your membership record and make changes if necessary. Review your information one more time and choose your payment type. Payment options include Visa, MasterCard, Discover or PayPal. Your payment will automatically record to your membership record, and you will receive an email confirmation.


Your membership number and pin number can be found on your membership card. Please DON’T try to pay your dues by using the JOIN AACA tab. This WILL NOT renew your membership – instead, it will create a new one.

Attention: AACA Members Who Still Need to Renew for 2024

In order to renew your 2024 membership using our new super simple and totally easy online renewal system, you need to know both your member number and your pin.

 

We have received quite a few calls and emails from members asking for their pin numbers, so we have decided to print both your membership number and pin number directly above your name on your renewal form that will come with your November/December magazine. The form is located on the extra sheet of paper that is included inside the polybag with the magazine.

 

We do not store any of your sensitive material like credit card information, etc., here at AACA, so we do not believe that putting your pin number on the cover sheet will cause any problems for you. 

 

We hope this makes life easier for you, and we thank you in advance for renewing your membership for another year!

Regarding Membership Renewal Forms & Antique Automobile Magazine

During this time of year, we are receiving membership renewals on a daily basis. Please know that we always try to process them as quickly as possible. Having said that, we do have to send the mailing file for Antique Automobile magazine about 3 weeks before you actually receive it in your mailbox so some renewals may not get processed before the mailing list is created. If you know that you sent your renewal in to us or that your region/chapter sent in your renewal, please disregard the extra renewal notice. Thank you in advance for understanding the situation!

Give the Gift of AACA Membership

We can't think of a better gift to give someone who loves this hobby than an AACA membership. Do you have friends and family who aren't current members and enjoy antique cars as much as you do? With the benefits of Antique Automobile magazine and the Library & Research Center alone, how can you go wrong?!


An AACA membership is a unique gift that gives all year long! Call us today at 717-534-1910 to purchase a gift membership for 2024!

Youth Development Corner:

AACA is Not Geared Towards Younger Members… Not True!

By Clayton "Clay" Fuhrman, VP Richmond Region AACA, [email protected]

This is a member submitted article.

After my trip to Hershey for the Eastern National Fall Meet this year, I heard from a few people that the AACA is not geared towards younger members. This, as I have experienced, is simply not true. Since a very young age, I have been actively involved in the AACA both at shows nationally and with our local club. All of my time and memories have been positive and fun experiences, which I have learned a lot from.


It all started with the chip program the club used to offer at many of the local and national shows. There I would learn valuable skills on the restoration and preservation of antique automobiles. The many friends I have met along the way through the club have also helped me learn and grow as an experienced mechanic and automotive enthusiast. People like Reggie Nash, Roy Klinger, Steve Ronaldo, and Jeffery Locke all taught me very valuable skills and pushed me to follow my skill set.

Our local club, the Richmond Region AACA, has been a significant part of my life as a kid growing up and continues to this day. I am now the Vice President of the region and look forward to my Presidency and the opportunities to improve and grow the club. Our club is constantly trying to bring younger members in as many clubs in the hobby do. The hobby would not survive if it wasn't for younger members such as myself. The AACA does a good job at marketing towards the younger generation. Things like tours, large shows, swap meets, and conferences are just some of the ways I have been influenced to learn more and continue my education and interest in antique cars and history in general.

 

One of my favorite places to visit is the AACA Library and Research Center, as well as America's Transportation Experience AACA Museum in Hershey, PA. Both of these facilities have an unbelievable amount of knowledge and character. The library hosts one of the best collections of automotive literature in the country. Whether you're restoring a car or just want to learn more about your favorite car company, you will be able to find something in that library. The museum features an outstanding collection of cars and buses from all eras and backgrounds. They also feature one of the best exhibits of Tucker cars and memorabilia in the world. The story of the Tucker Corporation and the people behind it always fascinated me.

 

I now own my own business restoring and repairing all kinds of antique vehicles from fire apparatus to motorcycles, even British cars like Jaguars and Bentleys. For my day job, I am an Emergency Vehicle Technician with Henrico Fire in Virginia.

My family has been in the automotive field for over four generations and as you can see, I kept with it. All of these accomplishments could not have been possible if it weren't for the people and experiences I've had while participating in the AACA and its events. I have also formed a fairly unique collection of vehicles with my contacts in the AACA. I currently own 6 antique vehicles, which I plan to show at different shows in the coming years. This year at Hershey I received my second junior for my 1976 Honda CB550F Super Sport motorcycle. Next year, I plan to either bring my 1969 Opel Kadett wagon or my 1948 American Lafrance 700 Series pumper. I also own a 1991 Cadillac Allante and a 1994 GMC Sierra, which were my first two vehicles. My soon to be tow vehicle is a 1990 Ford F150 XLT Lariat.

 

As you can see, I have enjoyed my time with the AACA as well as the people in the club both nationally and locally. I hope other members young and old alike will continue to keep the hobby alive and growing for decades to come.

Letter From PCI Regarding the Oral History Project Book

We are writing to provide an update on your much anticipated Antique Automobile Club of America Oral History Project publication. You may be aware and impacted by disruptions in the global supply chain as it pertains to paper and other consumer products. As the publisher, PCI is working diligently to procure the necessary materials to complete production of the publication given the paper shortage.

 

Due to this shortage, we were unable to keep the original estimated ship date of August 2023. We are working with our printer to acquire their allocation of paper and are hopeful that the publications will ship by the end of October. As a reminder, delivery can take up to a few weeks, depending on where you live.

 

If you purchased the digital version, you already received an email that will provide the capability to access the digital version.

 

We are truly sorry for the additional delay. Again, we are proud to have partnered with AACA and we are confident you will enjoy this Oral History Project publication.

 

We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate these supply shortages and delays. We encourage you to contact us directly should you have any questions about your order. We can be reached at 1-800-982-1590 or by email at [email protected].

 

Thank you again for your participation in this important project.

 

Sincerely,

Drew Clancy

President, PCI

ATTENTION: AACA Regions & Chapters

We Need Your Help with the New AACA History Center

We are currently developing an interactive timeline for the AACA History Center. Plans are to launch the first stage of the project next week during the Hershey show. The timeline focuses on the club's history, and we would like to include important milestones and history from your Regions and/or Chapters. Please submit a brief description and images related to the milestone(s) to [email protected]. Images are not required. 

Make Your Hotel Reservations Now

for the 2024 AACA Annual Convention

The 2024 AACA Annual Convention will be held February 8-10 in the Dulles/Washington D.C. area at the Westfields Marriott.


Here is the full hotel and reservation information, so you can book early and start your planning:


Just Named...

Marriott’s Premium Hotel of the Year!

Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles

14750 Conference Center Drive

Chantilly, VA 20151

Less than 10 miles from the Washington Dulles International Airport

 

Room Rate: $129 per night OR $169 per night includes breakfast for two people

Reservation Link: https://book.passkey.com/e/50584547

Reservation Phone: (800) 266-9432 (mention Antique Automobile Club of America)

Reservation Deadline: January 16, 2024

Check Out These Upcoming AACA National Activities...

Have You Checked Out MemberDeals Yet?

MemberDeals is a new member benefit program with exclusive offers to the world’s greatest entertainment and travel brands. While working with the top suppliers and partners in the industry nationwide, MemberDeals develops attractive offers that you, as an AACA member, now get to take advantage of.


What kind of offers are we talking about? How about offers for Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort™, Cirque du Soleil® and SeaWorld® Parks and Entertainment. There are deals on hotels, rental cars, flights, movie tickets, concerts and sports events. Don’t forget about Broadway musicals, cell phones, computers, appliances, automotive, flowers, food, subscriptions… the list goes on and on.


This new benefit program is completely FREE for all current AACA members to utilize. To check out all of the great deals available right now, all you need is your AACA member number and pin. Click here to go to the members only section of the AACA website, log in with your member number and pin, and look for the Travel & Entertainment link on the homepage.


(Your member number and pin can be found on your AACA membership card. If you have lost or misplaced your card, feel free to call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 and we will be happy to help you.)

Start 2024 Off Right with Your Official AACA Calendar

The AACA Calendar is always a hot item this time of year, so be sure to order yours before they are gone! This 13-month calendar runs from January 2024 to January 2025 and highlights AACA National Activities in addition to moon phases, all Federal Holidays and many other observances. The best part of the annual calendar is getting to see the fabulous member cars showcased each time you flip the month. At a cost of only $13 postpaid, these calendars also make great, inexpensive gifts for all of the car-lovers in your life!

To order, please call AACA Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or go online to the AACA Store. An order form will also be included with your next issue of Antique Automobile magazine. 

Don’t Delay! Order Your AACA Holiday Cards Today!

AACA Christmas and holiday cards are an annual tradition for many members. These beautiful 5x7 cards feature artwork from renowned artist Ken Eberts, whose paintings have graced Antique Automobile magazine covers. This year, we have two new designs...
“Christmas 1910”
1910 Oldsmobile Limited
Inside: Season’s Greetings
“Christmas 1949”
1949 Ford Custom Fordor
Inside: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
The cards come in packs of 12 and include envelopes. Each pack is only $12 (plus shipping). An order form was included with your July/August issue of Antique Automobile magazine. You can also purchase them in the AACA store on our website or call AACA Headquarters to place your order (717-534-1910).

Schedule a Tour of AACA National Headquarters

& Library Research Center

Would your AACA region or chapter like to visit?

What about any of the other car clubs you belong to?


If you are planning a tour or day excursion for a group near the Hershey area, why not include a stop at our building as part of your itinerary? We even have a back patio with picnic tables where your group can host lunch. 


If you would like to book a tour, please reach out to Amoi Goldman, AACA Reference Librarian & Outreach Coordinator, at 717-534-2082 or [email protected].

Do You Know a Military Veteran Who Would Like to be an AACA Member?
The Military Sponsorship Program is available to all of the Military Veterans that have proudly served to protect our homeland and freedoms. With this program, AACA is extending a limited number of complimentary 2024 memberships for first-time AACA applicants. More information on this program and an application can be found on the AACA website under Membership and drop down to Military Discount, or simply click here.

These complimentary 2024 memberships are for first-time AACA applicants and are limited by the funds available for this program. These complimentary applications for membership are intended for individuals who have a genuine interest in the antique car hobby.
Be Social With Us
AACA hosts online forums! AACA hosts a massive online forum area on our website that you can read and/or join in on the conversations on all sorts of topics. People post some really interesting material and pictures on an everyday basis. If you haven't used the forums before, just use the sign-up button in the upper right corner to create your user account. Anyone can join the online forums and it's completely free.
 
AACA has Facebook! AACA has an official Facebook page for club information and events. We also have an extremely active Facebook group, where group members post, ask questions and discuss everything and anything car-related. LIKE our Facebook page and ask to JOIN our Facebook group. Don't forget to connect with the AACA Library on their official Facebook page as well.
 
AACA is on Instagram! @antiqueautomobileclubofamerica 
Be sure to use these hashtags: #DrivingHistory, #AACA, #AntiqueAutomobileClubofAmerica, #Hershey, #AACAHershey, #AACAproud, #AACAstrong
AACA National Activities Calendar

February 8-10, 2024

Annual Convention

Chantilly, VA


March 17-23, 2024

Founders Tour

Lafayette, LA


March 21-24, 2024

Special Winter Nationals

Guaynabo, PR


April 4-6, 2024

Southeastern Spring Nationals

Charlotte, NC


April 5, 2024

Grand Nationals

Charlotte, NC


June 9-13, 2024

Eastern Divisional Tour

Fredericksburg, VA         


June 20-22, 2024

Eastern Spring Nationals

Saratoga Springs, NY


July 10-13, 2024

Western Divisional Tour

Big Horn Mtn., WY


September 12-14, 2024

Western Fall Nationals

Loveland, CO


September 22-27, 2024

78th Revival AAA Glidden Tour®

Fairfield, PA


October 8-11, 2024

Eastern Fall Nationals

Hershey, PA


October 23-26, 2024

Southeastern Fall Nationals

Huntsville, AL


This list is subject to change. New events may be added to the schedule. Continue to watch Speedster for up-to-date information, changes and additions.

Mark your calendars now for all of the 2024 National shows and tours you would like to participate in...

then let the planning begin!

Would you like registration information and materials about any of these

2024 National Activities?

You can:


1. Fill out the activity request card that came with the last issue of Antique Automobile magazine

and mail it to us.

 

2. Sign into the members only area of the AACA website to print your own registration form and brochure. You will need your member number and your pin. If you don’t remember your member number and your pin, give AACA Headquarters a call, and we can provide you with that information.

 

3. Call us at AACA Headquarters and we will fill out a request for you and mail you the materials. Call

717-534-1910 Mon.-Fri. from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.



REMINDER:

Your 2024 membership dues MUST be paid prior to registering for any 2024 National Activities.




If you request registration materials for a show or tour and those materials are not finalized and printed yet, you will be put on the mailing list to receive them as soon as they are available. 

Trivia Answer

Dearborn Motors Corporation was a Michigan tractor and implement distribution company established by Ford Motor Company when Ford terminated the production-distribution agreement with Harry Ferguson Inc. in 1946. Dearborn Motors became the primary distributor for the Ford 8N tractor as well as a line of implements, service parts, and other farm equipment. Ford Motor Company purchased Dearborn Motors Corporation in 1952 and integrated the tractor business into the company's Tractor and Implement Division. In 1986, Ford acquired Sperry-New Holland to form Ford-New Holland. Ford ultimately sold its tractor division in 1991 to Fiat. The terms of the sale gave the Italian company the right to continue to use the Ford-New Holland name through 2001.

Antique Automobile Club of America

AACA.org | 717-534-1910

America’s Premiere Resource for the Collectible Vehicle Community

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The Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is the country's premier resource for the collectible vehicle community. Since its formation in 1935, the Club, through its national office, publications, and membership, aids individuals, museums, libraries, historians and collectors dedicated to the enjoyment and preservation of automotive history.