September 2024 | Volume 189 | |
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Last National Show of 2024
HURRY!! REGISTRATION DEADLINE EXTENDED TO OCTOBER 5!!
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October 24-26, 2024
Southeastern Fall Nationals
Huntsville, AL
NEW Registration Deadline: October 5
Click here for brochure
Click here to register online
Click here to register to judge online
Click here if you would like registration information emailed to you (please include your name and member # in the email)
North Alabama Region (NAR) is proud to be hosting the AACA Rocket City Southeastern Fall Nationals. We are thrilled to welcome you to Huntsville and offer you some good old southern hospitality. The Nationals show will take place at the Orion Amphitheater located at 701 Amphitheater Drive, Huntsville, AL 35806.
Event highlights include:
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center Tour
- Cruise to Lake Guntersville
- Self-Driving Tours to Explore Huntsville
- Social Event – Stars & Strikes, Mid-City District Huntsville
- Membership Roundtable
- National Judging School
- Social Event – Orion Amphitheater with live entertainment by Grits & Juice
- Judges Breakfast & CJE
- Owners Briefing
- Flea Market
- Youth Event – Greenpower Electric Car Races
- Awards Banquet at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Host Hotel:
Holiday lnn Research Park, 256-830-0600
5903 University Drive, Huntsville, AL 35806
$155/night plus tax
For additional hotel options, check out the brochure
Questions?
Show Chairman: Dave Robertson, daveLrobertson44@gmail.com, 256-653-4036
Registration Chair: Dena Robertson, registration@nar-aace.org, 256-651-5627
REMINDER: Your 2024 AACA membership dues must be paid
prior to registering for any 2024 National shows and tours.
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Only 1 Week Until the Hershey Show!! | |
Will We See YOU in the Sweetest Place on Earth? | |
Eastern Fall Nationals
Hershey, PA
TUESDAY, October 8 –
FRIDAY, October 11
Click here for brochure & full schedule
The Hershey Region AACA invites you to make the pilgrimage to antique car Mecca this October. Come join the more than 200,000 visitors who come each year to experience Hershey. The Hershey show is considered the largest antique car show and flea market in the world boasting some 9,000 vendor spaces in its flea market, a car corral with 700+ antique cars for sale and culminates in a great car show with about 1,000 vintage cars on display.
If you registered for the flea market or car corral, you should have received your packet with your windshield stickers and instructions by now. If you haven’t, please send an email immediately to fallmeet@hersheyaaca.org.
If you registered to show your car on FRIDAY, you will need to pick up your packet on the Chocolate Field at the FOLDER DISTRIBUTION tent located next to the Hershey Region main tent. The FOLDER DISTRIBUTION tent is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Packets will also be available for pick-up on Friday morning at the show vehicle entrance behind the Giant Center.
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If you have questions about the flea market or car corral, please send an email to fallmeet@hersheyaaca.org. If you have questions regarding the car show, please send an email to hersheycarreg@gmail.com.
SAFE TRAVELS! WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE ALL OF YOU!!
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Important 2024 Hershey Reminders | |
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Show will run Tuesday, October 8 through Friday, October 11
Flea Market set-up will be Monday, October 7
Judging School will be Thursday, October 10, at 2 p.m.
Judges Breakfast will be Friday, October 11, at 7 a.m.
Car show will be Friday, October 11
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Come Visit AACA National at the Hershey Show | |
AACA merchandise will be at these locations in the flea market:
Chocolate Field in our blue trailer – C3H 5-7, C3I 5-7 (Tuesday - Friday)
Green Field in front of the Giant Center in a large white tent (Tuesday - Thursday)
AACA merchandise will be on the show field along the road
in a large white tent on FRIDAY during the car show.
AACA membership will be at these locations in the flea market:
Chocolate Field in front of our blue trailer – C3H 5-7, C3I 5-7 (Tuesday - Friday)
Chocolate Field C3G 5-9 (Tuesday - Thursday)
Green Field in front of the Giant Center in a large white tent (Tuesday - Thursday)
AACA membership will be on the show field along the road near the
merchandise tent on FRIDAY during the car show.
New memberships and membership renewals
will be taken at all of these locations all week.
AACA Headquarters building, including the AACA Library,
will be open to the public Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Don’t forget about the Library yard sale on
Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. behind AACA Headquarters!
Unfortunately, there will not be a Hershey poster for 2024.
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Car Corral Spaces, Race Car/High-Wheeler Event & Juniors at Hershey | |
Car Corral Spaces WILL Be Available Onsite
There will be a limited number of car corral spaces available onsite at the Hershey show. They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to enter a car into the car corral, you will need to show up at the show at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 8. You MUST be a current paid AACA member. The vehicle MUST be 25 years old or older, you MUST be able to drive the vehicle on to the car corral and the vehicle MUST be AACA compliant – no hot rods allowed.
Race Car Condition Run & High-Wheeler Event
Come see the race cars and high-wheelers race around the track in the Hershey Stadium starting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 10. There is a 75+-year history of race cars driving around the stadium, starting with the midget car races during the depression. Today, Hershey is one of the only places where spectators still get to see these cars in action!
Juniors at Hershey
Juniors at Hershey is a project of the Hershey Region Youth Committee. Join us for the 26th Annual Junior Display for youth of all ages. The event will be held on Friday, October 11, from 12 to 2 p.m. in front of the Giant Center. The Hershey Region Chuck Wagon will be on display.
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Special Note About the Shower Facilities During Hershey Week | |
Due to building upgrades, we were just informed that the showers in the Hershey Entertainment and Resorts maintenance building are no longer available. The Hershey Region AACA is working to resolve this issue.
At present, shower facilities will be provided by the Hershey Region. The exact location of the showers is unknown at the present time. Toiletries (i.e., wash cloths, towels, soap and shampoo) will not be provided.
Additional updates regarding this situation will be communicated with program inserts and/or announcements on the public address system during the show.
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Welcome Back To Hershey!
By Jen Wolfe, AACA Library Director, jwolfe@aaca.org
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In a few days, car enthusiasts the world over will begin descending on Hershey for the Eastern Fall Nationals, and the AACA Library staff couldn’t be more excited to see everyone again! Let’s get right to the most important things you’ll need to know about the library’s activities for the week before arriving in Hershey…
Library Hours (October 7-11)
Monday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tuesday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
(closing early to prepare for the Yard Sale!)
Wednesday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday/Saturday CLOSED
Donations
If you’re considering bringing materials to donate to the library, PLEASE call ahead of time to arrange it with staff. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address with your donation. Thank you!
New Library Displays
- Revamped Fisher Body Craftsman’s Guild display
- NEW bus models display
- Women’s Automotive History Exhibition located off-site at Penn State – Harrisburg’s Hanes Library (only a 15 min drive from AACA Headquarters!) For contact, hours, and address, click here
- Visit the AACA Gift Shop here at Headquarters, as well as the library’s booth at Black Swan Antiques in neighboring Palmyra, to buy books and other items for sale
Research Services at the Library
- Note that this is our busiest week of the year, so in-depth librarian assistance is limited
- Bags, folders, food/drinks, etc. need to be placed in our free lockers before entering the library’s Reading Room – pencils only, no ink pens!
- Please bring photo ID to be scanned if you intend to request research material
- Reproduction rates for Hershey week – $1 per page for digital scans, $0.50 per page for photocopies
Volunteer Opportunities
We still need volunteers to help during the week at the library, and also at the Yard Sale on Tuesday. To volunteer please contact Matt Hocker at mhocker@aaca.org or 717-534-2082 ext. 1412. This week is not successful without the help of volunteers – thank you in advance! More details can be found here.
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Yard Sale
- Tuesday, 4-7 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE
- Early birds should report to the Information/Registration Tent on-site starting at 3 p.m. for Entry Time Tickets
- Entry Time Tickets are NEW this year (used for AACA library tents ONLY)
- Tickets are FREE – they just guarantee you a spot at a designated time, only available for pick-up starting at 3 p.m. at the event; absolutely no distribution in advance – entry times at 4 p.m., 4:20 p.m., and 4:40 p.m. After 5 p.m., no tickets are required
- On sale: sales literature, shop manuals, automotive history books, owner’s manuals, rare dealer albums and data books, curated literature bundles, automobilia and more (all items for sale are duplicates – we are not selling from our permanent collection!)
- Buick Heritage Alliance Tent – Buick and GM materials for sale by BHA (NO Entry Time Ticket required!)
- New Book/Author Tent – Early opening at 3:30 p.m. with more than 20 automotive authors offering 30 titles between them, PLUS two publishers with an array of automotive titles. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop over 100 book titles, most offered at special Yard-Sale-Only discounts! (NO Entry Time Ticket required!)
- If planning to buy in volume, please prepare to bring your own boxes, cloth bags, etc. Our stock of boxes will be limited!
- Cash, check, and Visa, MasterCard, Discover (no AMEX) accepted!
Pop-Up Book Sale
- Friday, during the car show WEATHER PERMITTING
- Library staff will be alongside the AACA Merchandise tent with books for sale
- Books only, no sales literature
- Bargain pricing only seen at this sale – so don’t hesitate to make us a deal!
- Cash, check, and Visa, MasterCard, Discover (no AMEX) accepted!
We wish everyone safe travels to Hershey, and we can’t wait to see you! If you have any questions regarding the library’s activities during the Fall Nationals, please call us at 717-534-2082 during our regular hours, or email Jen Wolfe at jwolfe@aaca.org.
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Interested in becoming a volunteer with the AACA Library?
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Matthew Hocker,
at mhocker@aaca.org 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 agoldman@aaca.org or 717-534-2082.
Visit our Booth at Black Swan Antiquities
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NEW AACA Merchandise for Hershey! | |
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Check it out! We have NEW AACA merchandise just in time for Hershey!
We have men’s and women’s polos in a whole bunch of new colors. We have two new shirts and a lightweight cardigan for women. We’ve got new hats, puzzles and a light-up keychain.
We also have new t-shirts, long-sleeve t-shirts and sweatshirts specifically designed for the Hershey show. Oh, and we can’t forget about our new drawstring backpack bags and a brand-new kid’s t-shirt.
Make sure you take time to do a little souvenir shopping at the AACA trailer and tents while walking around the flea market and show field.
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AACA Selling 1930 Lincoln 7-Passenger Touring for Benefit of Library | |
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The club has generously been given a significant number of cars over the years and from time to time we sell donated cars. These sales are few and far between as we would prefer to keep as many as possible, but until the club has sufficient storage that won’t be possible.
This year we are selling a wonderful 1930 Lincoln Model L that would make a fabulous tour car. It comfortably holds seven passengers and all your “gear” for a tour. It has recently been refurbished including a new battery and has gone through a mechanical freshening as well. It has all the side curtains and rods to install. It has a beautiful trunk as well.
This car was reported by the previous owner to have been owned by the President of Cuba in 1930, along with two others in his fleet. It does not sport its original color but certainly makes a beautiful statement.
If you are looking for an early tour car that has power and room this could be your car. RM Sotheby’s will be graciously selling this for us at their annual auction during Hershey week in October. Online and phone bidding will be available if you can’t join us in person.
If you have any questions about the car, please contact Steve Moskowitz at AACA National at 717-534-1910 or aaca1@aaca.org.
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RM Sotheby’s Returns to the Hershey Lodge for the 18th Year
With a Dynamic Lineup of Pre- and Post-War Classics
By Kate Clendenning, Senior Communications Officer, rmsothebys.com
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RM Sotheby’s returns to Hershey for the AACA Eastern Fall Nationals tradition, a staple for almost two decades, with an impressive collection of more than 160 cars spanning from 1902 to 1998. This two-day sale, set for October 9-10, will highlight five collections, including some exceedingly rare vehicles. Among the standout offerings is the 1902 Packard Model G Rear Entrance Tonneau, the only surviving twin-cylinder Packard with just five owners since its inception. Also featured is the 1911 Oldsmobile Model 28 Autocrat Roadster, one of only three known surviving examples, which boasts an award-winning frame-off restoration. Additionally, the sale will showcase the 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster, an authentic and iconic "boattail" speedster, poised to be the top lot of the event. RM Sotheby’s is thrilled to once again present one of the most impressive gatherings of early collectible cars and automobilia in the country.
Collections
The Terence E. Adderley Collection: The Terence E. Adderley Collection has long been renowned for its rare and elusive pre-war variants and sought-after post-war sports racers, and this is the final group of the collection to cross the block. This collection will offer another exceptional selection at auction in Hershey, showcasing vehicles from 1910 to 1985 along with an impressive array of automobilia.
The Sportsman Collection: Consisting of ten lots, The Sportsman Collection offers timeless charm and a sense of nostalgia. "Woodie" cars, renowned for their distinctive wooden paneling, were originally designed for versatility and utility and their unique blend of craftsmanship and classic Americana continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, celebrating an era where function met timeless style.
The Frank Wright Collection: Offered from the Estate of Frank L. Wright, this collection consists of four Full Classic Chryslers, each with an award-winning history. Wright was renowned for his extensive knowledge of pre-war Chryslers and his exceptionally well-restored examples.
The William Boucher Collection: This collection, showcasing nine meticulously maintained post-war American classics, includes AACA award-winning Cadillacs and timeless models from Packard and Chrysler, all providing mid-century elegance.
The Charles Noto Collection: A collection of 16 exceptional automobiles, having been all expertly preserved in his show room and spanning from the timeless elegance of pre-war American icons to the sleek sophistication of post-war European sports cars.
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Top 10 Vehicles
- 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster (Estimate: $750,000 - $850,000)
- 1932 Chrysler CL Imperial Convertible Roadster by LeBaron (Estimate: $550,000 - $650,000)
- 1902 Packard Model G Rear Entrance Tonneau (Estimate: $500,000 - $600,000)
- 1911 Oldsmobile Model 28 Autocrat Roadster (Estimate: $400,000 - $500,000)
- 1931 Chrysler CG Imperial Roadster by LeBaron (Estimate: $400,000 - $500,000)
- 1932 Cadillac V-16 All-Weather Phaeton by Fleetwood (Estimate: $350,000 - $450,000)
- 1926 Bugatti Type 35A Grand Prix (Estimate: $300,000 - $375,000)
- 1934 Packard 1107 Twelve Convertible Victoria (Estimate: $275,000 - $350,000)
- 1932 Chrysler CL Imperial Convertible Sedan by LeBaron (Estimate: $250,000 - $300,000)
- 1942 Packard Clipper One-Eighty Convertible Victoria by Darrin (Estimate: $225,000 - $300,000)
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Watching these top ten cars cross the block will be awesome! But don't worry... there are plenty of affordable cars in the auction as well! Click here to check out everything that will be for sale next week.
Event Schedule & Location: Hershey Lodge, 325 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033
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| Tuesday, October 8
PREVIEW:
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
COOKOUT:
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Wednesday, October 9
PREVIEW:
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
AUCTION STARTS:
5:00 p.m. | Thursday, October 10
PREVIEW:
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
AUCTION STARTS:
5:00 p.m. | | |
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1921 Ford Model T Touring For Sale During Hershey Week
Sale Benefits AACA Library
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AACA has been lucky enough to have more than one Model T donated to us for the club’s collection. This one, however, was specifically donated to be sold to raise money for the AACA Library. It has recently undergone a minor mechanical restoration and has had major work done on the fuel system. It is a very solid car with two extra tires, tools and an AACA First Junior award won in 1964. The badge is still on the car! It also comes with a clean title.
Overall, it’s a nice example that would make a perfect tour or parade car. It shows well, too! AACA will be taking bids on this car at the AACA Library tent on Chocolate Field North C3G 5-9. Bidding will close at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 10. We will notify the winning bidder at that time. There is a reserve on the car, but it is very conservative. Stop by and see for yourself!!
All questions should be directed to Steve Moskowitz at aaca1@aaca.org.
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Ken Eberts (1943-2024): Artist and Friend
By Steve Moskowitz, AACA National CEO, aaca1@aaca.org
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In the latest issue of Antique Automobile, my column highlighted Ken and Liz Eberts. At the time, I knew their health was bad but was hopeful there would be a rebound. Sadly, both Ken and Liz recently passed away, but it was too late for me to revise the column.
We have lost two wonderful people and loyal AACA members. Ken’s artwork has graced our magazine many times, his posters were a mainstay at the Hershey show and his fans always looked forward to his Christmas cards each year. I have said more than once that God got two of his finest. There is a big hole in a lot of hearts these days and they both will be missed by those of us left.
Ken was able to provide us with one Christmas card this year and they are available now. At the Hershey show, we plan to have a selection of his posters for sale for his fans and they will be very inexpensive. We just want to see his past work spread around to those who would like a cherished memento.
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John & Lynn Heimerl AACA Oral History Center
Opens at National Headquarters
Be sure to stop by during Hershey week to check it out!
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At long last, the programmers have finished the software project for our Oral History Center so graciously funded by John and Lynn Heimerl. We already have 3,000+ oral histories loaded into the kiosk. These are stories from our members in their own words and voices. AACA is excited to add this feature to our new building and allow families to come in and hear stories from their loved ones or simply browse to listen to stories.
This will be an ongoing project to help us create a listening database of our history and experiences. There is a microphone and recording apparatus available to capture new stories, so if you are visiting AACA National HQ and want to record your own story you will be able to do so. We have made this new program extremely user-friendly for our guests, so they will find it simple and easy to use.
We are currently upgrading the search feature to make it better and will be adding artwork to the wall, but the system is currently available for use. Our expectations are that during Hershey week in October many of you will help us add even more stories to the center.
Our sincerest appreciation and thanks to John and Lynn for their support and making this project happen!
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It’s Time to Renew Your AACA Membership for 2025
By Karen White, AACA Membership Department, kwhite@aaca.org
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As most of you know, your AACA membership runs for a calendar year – January 1 through December 31. From about mid-September 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.
A membership renewal form was included with your September/October issue of Antique Automobile magazine. Simply fill out the form and send it back to the office with a check or credit card information.
If you're going to be at Hershey, you can also stop by
the AACA trailer, tent or any of the special membership stands
and renew your membership in person with us.
You can also use our super easy online membership renewal on our website. Renewing online is quick and simple! 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 and Discover. Your payment will automatically record to your membership record, and you will receive a confirmation email receipt.
Your membership number and PIN number were included in an email sent September 11, 2024, to remind members that it was time to renew 2025 membership dues. The member number and PIN number are printed on the renewal form included in the magazine package of the September/October Antique Automobile magazine. You can also find your numbers on your membership card. If you don’t know your membership number and/or PIN number, you can call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or email membership@aaca.org. 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.
We look forward to seeing or hearing from all of you very soon!
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Western Fall Nationals Results | |
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THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, judges, property staff, AACA Board, AACA staff and all of our wonderful members who participated in the show in Loveland, CO!
And a very special THANK YOU
to the Poudre Valley Region
for hosting a great event!
Congratulations to all of our winners!!
Click the above link to view the winners list.
Thank you to AACA member and Show Chairman Joe Pirrone for sharing several great photos from the event – enjoy them and be sure to read the official recap article in the November/December issue of Antique Automobile magazine.
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Please scroll all the way to the end of Speedster to find the answer. | |
Early automobiles relied on updraft carburetors. The downdraft variety arrived later. Why? | |
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Member Story: 1968 Pontiac Firebird Convertible
By Grace, Julie and Leonard Pittman, Staunton, VA, lpittman@firstbank.com
This is a member submitted article.
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A good friend of mine was a high school classmate of the original owner of our car. My friend had been trying to buy this car for years and finally convinced her (the owner) to sell; however, when the time came, he decided he had too many projects going on to take on another. My friend knew that my “first car” was a 1969 Firebird; same color, same engine (but it was a coupe), so he called me to gauge my interest and I immediately said of course, I wanted it! My wife and her twin sister shared a 1968 Firebird convertible in high school, so there was a strong affinity for this car from both of us. Ultimately, my buddy was able to make arrangements to have his friend (the owner) sell the car to me.
Beyond my personal affinity for Firebirds, my wife’s family has been in the car business for going on 100 years. Her grandfather started an Oakland franchise in 1929, which of course in time became Pontiac. In the 1930s, he added Cadillac and at one time was the oldest Cadillac dealer east of the Mississippi. In 1975, they added Honda. The dealership is now GMC/Buick/Honda in Rocky Mount, NC, and is still in the family and managed by the third and fourth generations. My wife worked in the business for almost 20 years and obtained her dealer certification from NADA, but when our daughter was born, she “retired” from the car business.
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The car was originally purchased in June 1968 from Lexington Motor Sales in Lexington, Virginia (approximately 35 miles from where we live in Staunton, VA). The car was purchased by a dad as a gift for his daughter’s high school graduation. It never left the area and was driven daily by the daughter until 1991 when it was parked in the family’s dairy barn. The daughter retained ownership of the car until we purchased it in late 2020 after it had been sitting for nearly 30 years.
The car is “matching numbers” with 42,250 actual miles. It has a 350cid 2-barrel V-8 with a two-speed automatic transmission. Factory options include AM radio, floor console, rear speaker, door edge guards, remote mirror, power steering, power convertible top, custom trim group and floor mats. The exterior color is Verdoro Green with Ivy Gold interior.
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The car is almost entirely original, including paint, interior and convertible top. I even still use the original floor mats. I had a paint correction performed along with an application of ceramic coating. Unfortunately, during the time the car was parked in the barn, it sat alongside a lime truck which caused some surface rusting, particularly on the trunk lid, which got into the paint. Nevertheless, I have decided not to do anything further to the paint as the majority of the car looks fantastic for its age. The top only needed a good cleaning and coat of protective sealant. The interior needed cleaning and some touch up on the kick panels and the panels on the back of the seats, which had turned brown with age. I did replace the carpet but in hindsight probably could have saved the original.
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Fortunately, the car did not suffer from any serious mouse infestation. I am told by the mechanic that worked on the car originally that he was able to get the car running before we did any enhancements. I got a chance to look underneath the valve covers during the initial renovations and it looked like new. I would say the majority of the cosmetic improvements were underneath the hood. I painted the engine bay and the engine and replaced (with period correct OER parts) all of the hoses, hose clamps, belts, etc., added a Delco “battery topper” and period correct battery cables. The original hood insulation was still there and completely intact.
Aside from cosmetic enhancements and replacement of certain limited-lifetime components, the engine and transmission have not been touched. I replaced suspension bushings, front springs, rear leaf springs, and installed period-correct Koni adjustable shocks. For safety and drivability, I installed power front disc brakes. I also added a period-correct dual exhaust. Vintage Rally II wheels and period-correct redline radial tires were installed (I went to 15-inch wheels and tires to accommodate the disc brakes), and the original deluxe steering wheel was restored. All updates were done using period-correct components when possible. The original “space saver” tire and inflation can is still in the trunk.
The car is definitely a “driver,” and we are certainly enjoying it! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the original owner of our car and was able to get some neat photos of her with the car, one of which is a photo in her graduation gown and cap. The car won its AACA Junior award in Gettysburg 2023 and its Senior award in Hershey 2023, and in February 2023 received a “Judges Award” at the Motorama show in Harrisburg, PA.
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We want to hear from you!! | |
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We are always looking to feature articles from AACA members in Speedster. We'd love to share your personal accounts of tours and shows you have attended, restoration projects, unique vehicle stories and history, and any other stories you think other AACA members would enjoy hearing about.
Stories should average about 500 words or less. And we love photos, so make sure to include some! Please send your photos and stories to Stacy Zimmerman at szimmerman@aaca.org.
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IMPORTANT!!! 2025 AACA National Board of Directors Election | |
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In the September/October edition of Antique Automobile is a postpaid ballot for the 2025 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 RECEIVED by November 15, 2024.
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ATTENTION: AACA Members 65+ With a
Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement Plan
Do You Qualify For FREE $$$?
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We are excited to share news about our new partnership with Grouper. Grouper provides benefits to AACA members aged 65 and older for staying active with others, and these benefits include sending you a check in the mail.
AACA members with a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement that includes the One Pass or Renew Active programs will receive a $50 initial payment. Additionally, members can earn $20 every three months by staying active through your passion for antique cars.
Seeing if your current plan includes Grouper is quick and easy! In only a couple of minutes and by answering two questions, you will find out if Grouper can pay you for being an AACA member.
Click below to check if you are eligible for this program...
| For any questions, the Grouper Member Engagement Team is available at 833-445-2400 or info@hellogrouper.com. | |
2025 AACA Annual Convention Hotel Reservations Now Open | |
The 2025 AACA Annual Convention will be held February 6-8 in the Charlotte/Concord, NC, area at the Embassy Suites by Hilton. We are working on one or two exciting pre-convention excursions for Thursday that you will not want to miss, so you may want to consider coming in on Wednesday.
Here is the full hotel and reservation information, so you can book early and start your planning:
Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte/Concord Golf Resort and Spa
5400 John Q. Hammons Drive NW
Concord, NC 28027
Only 20 miles from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Room Rate: $159 + tax, includes complimentary hot breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, parking
Reservation Link: AACA Annual Convention (hilton.com)
Reservation Phone: 704-455-8200 (mention AACA Annual Convention)
Reservation Deadline: January 16, 2025
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2025 AACA Annual Convention Call for Speakers EXTENDED | |
Have you ever thought about speaking or putting on a seminar at the Annual Convention? Well, now's your chance! If you would like to be a possible speaker, please fill out this form and send it in no later than October 15.
Have an idea for a workshop? What topics would you like to hear a panel of experts discuss? This is YOUR Annual Convention, and we want to know what you want to learn about. Please email Stacy with your seminar ideas and/or speaker suggestions (membership, leadership, chapters/regions, marketing, cars, technical, fun, historical, ladies-focused, etc.).
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2025 AACA Annual Convention Trade Show Registration Now Open | |
Trade show registration has begun! If you have a business that AACA members should know about, then you should have a trade show booth. If you use a service or have a friend who owns a company that AACA members should be using, a trade show booth is the answer. At only $200, this is the most cost-effective target marketing you could ever do!
If you want to spend some quality time sharing what your company does with AACA members, you NEED to be in the trade show! Click here for more information about the benefits of being a trade show vendor at the convention and a registration form.
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AACA Offers Six Scholarships
Application Deadline: December 1
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Click here to download the scholarship application.
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.
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If you have any questions, please contact:
Greg Jackson, AACA National Board of Directors
VP Youth Development & Awards
greg.jackson15@outlook.com or 704-408-6217
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Legislative Corner: Keeping You Informed
By Fred Trusty, AACA National VP Legislation, bearcamp1988@gmail.com
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Your Legislative Committee (LC) has been trying to plot a new path forward to educate our members on key impending issues that will likely have a significant impact on our hobby. To this end, we are looking for ways to partner with SEMA’s Government Relations Team to highlight important State and Federal issues. SEMA has a team of 7 full-time employees carefully reviewing both legislative as well as regulatory activities that impact our hobby. Their goal is to encourage comments from their members to help make sure that the appropriate people in government, in all 50 states as well as the Federal Government, understand our concerns.
There are a couple of issues that we all need to be watching out for in the short term:
Availability of lead-free gasoline: There are many states, including New Jersey, where it is illegal to sell lead-free gasoline for over-the-road use. This will become even more of an issue as it is likely that the EPA will be supporting the sale of E15 or even E20 which will be even more detrimental to our vehicles than E10.
Further spreading of the California mandates on EVs: Many states have adopted similar rules which will outlaw the sale of new gasoline powered vehicles in 2035 and require that 50% of new vehicles be electric by 2032. Virginia recently overturned these regulations a couple of months ago. SEMA supported legislation to overturn these regulations has been introduced in several states, including New Jersey. If we want to be assured that gasoline will continue to be available at reasonable prices, we need to be sure that the scope of the California mandates is reduced to the maximum extent possible.
Right to repair: With model year 2000 cars entering our show fields next year with their inherent computerization, this will become a bigger issue for our membership.
We’d appreciate feedback from the membership to determine if it would be useful for the LC to routinely update the membership, perhaps every other month, via an article in Speedster. Please email your thoughts, including any particular topics of interest, to me at bearcamp1988@gmail.com.
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Official 2025 AACA Calendar Now Available | |
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 2025 to January 2026 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.
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It's Never Too Early to Order Your Holiday Cards | AACA Christmas and holiday cards are an annual tradition for many members. These beautiful 5x7 cards feature artwork from renowned artists Ken Eberts and Dan Reed. Here are this year’s new designs... | |
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1970 Ford Country Squire LTD
Artist: Ken Eberts
Inside: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
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Lincoln Station 1940
Artist: Dan Reed
Inside: Happy Holidays
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The cards come in packs of 12 and include envelopes. Each pack is only $12 (plus shipping). You can purchase them in the AACA store on our website or by calling AACA Headquarters to place your order (717-534-1910). | |
Treat Yourself to an Official AACA Car Sign This Winter | |
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Our next batch of car signs will be for the holiday season. To ensure delivery
in time for the holidays, sign requests must be received by Friday, November 8.
All requests received now through November 8 will be processed in November. Requests received after November 8 will not be available until January 2025.
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This is the only official AACA recommended car show sign and is intended for use at AACA events. The AACA car sign format, styled similarly to other Concours signs, when properly weighted or staked would limit potential damage to vehicles if bumped or blown. Signs are 16.5" tall and 12" wide and are made of hard plastic to withstand the elements. These signs are only available to AACA members and are custom created to tell your vehicle's story and history.
AACA car signs cost $45 plus shipping and handling. Add an image or images for $5 each. PA residents also pay sales tax.
Please allow 4-5 weeks for the entire process from start to finish.
Click here for more information and instructions.
Email Jon Curtis at AACA Headquarters if you would like to have a sign made.
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Check Out the Latest Deals on MemberDeals! | |
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Schedule a Tour of AACA National Headquarters
& Library Research Center
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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?
If you would like to book a tour, please reach out to Amoi Goldman, AACA Reference Librarian & Outreach Coordinator, at 717-534-2082 or agoldman@aaca.org.
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Do You Know a Military Veteran Who Would Like to be an AACA Member? | |
The Military Membership Program is available to Military Veterans that have proudly served to protect our homeland and freedoms. With this program, AACA is extending complimentary 2025 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 Program, or simply click here.
These complimentary 2025 memberships are for first-time AACA applicants. These complimentary applications for membership are intended for individuals who have a genuine interest in the antique car hobby.
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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.
Be sure to use these hashtags: #DrivingHistory, #AACA, #AntiqueAutomobileClubofAmerica, #Hershey, #AACAHershey, #AACAproud, #AACAstrong
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Updraft carburetors could be mounted down low in the engine compartment which proved advantageous since the fuel supply was gravity fed (then, with vacuum assist). In addition, fuel metering at the time was still somewhat of an inexact science…thus, the updraft was less susceptible to flooding. And with the poor road surfaces of the time, any jostling of the float assembly that might further allow fuel to unexpectedly spill from the carburetor would be directed down instead of into the engine itself.
As power demands increased, so did fuel flow requirements which thereby necessitated the need for fuel pumps and bigger carburetors. Likewise, the arrival of “V” engines and their packaging demands very much dictated the downdraft carburetor.
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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. | | | | |
