Reflections

Winter 2022

The AACA Museum, Inc. has been and remains an independent 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, not affiliated with the Antique Automobile Club of America.

An award-winning publication of the AACA Museum, Inc.

Special William H. Smith Memorial Edition

1

Remembering William H. ‘Bill’ Smith

Board of Directors Richard P. Sills, Esquire President William S. Rothermel Secretary Alan L. Brechbill Treasurer Edmund Cammack John Dockendorf William “Bill” Edmunds Henry W. “Hank” Hallowell, III John Hess Joel Hopkins Jon Kirssin Mark Lieberman Tucker Club Representative John Oakman Museum of Bus Transportation Representative Don “Rick” Risser Antonia W. “Toni” Rothman Andrew “Andy” Saft John R. Tucker, Jr. Chad L. Winters James M. Wood William “Bill” Cammack Cammack Position Alternate

Staff Jeffrey E. Bliemeister (ext. 102) Executive Director jbliemeister@aacamuseum.org Stanley Sipko (ext. 104) Museum Curator ssipko@aacamuseum.org Rob Kain (ext. 106) Director of Operations & Development rkain@aacamuseum.org Stacy Benson (ext. 101) Office Manager sbenson@aacamuseum.org Leslie Thompson (ext. 108) Maintenance Supervisor lthompson@aacamuseum.org Dareck Caroway (ext. 106) Finance and Administration Manager dcaroway@aacamuseum.org Wendy Albert (ext. 117) Retail & Guest Services Manager walbert@aacamuseum.org Andrea Beshara (ext. 105) Event Coordinator abeshara@aacamuseum.org 717.566.7100 161 Museum Drive, Hershey, PA 17033 2

W

ith gratitude, appreciation, and heavy hearts, the Museum family remembers one of its founders, William H. “Bill” Smith.

Bill passed away on Sunday, September 19, 2021. We are forever indebted to him for his leadership and dedication to preserving and promoting motoring history.

Bill was involved in the old car hobby from an early age, buying, restoring, and modifying vehicles of all types. A native of the Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton area and a US Navy veteran, he rose to national prominence when he served as president of the Antique Automobile Club of America in 1979 and 1980. In 1987 he became the Club’s Executive Director, a position he held for 17 years.

Bill was instrumental in creating the Club’s vision. During his tenure and under his leadership, the Club grew in size and scope. He also introduced the AACA Library & Research Center and served as its president. He then led the founding of the Museum in the 1990s.

He spearheaded the physical construction and opening of the building in 2003, and then became its first president.

Bill was an active member of SEMA, ARMO and various professional organizations. He earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Meguiar’s Person of the Year in 2005. While he was proud of the honors he received, the people he met and worked with mattered most to him. His list of friends and supporters was a veritable “who’s who” of the automotive hobby.

“It didn’t matter if you were a world-famous celebrity, an owner of a multi-million-dollar collection, or a just met friend at a car show, Bill treated everyone with the same warmth and respect,” remembers Jeffrey Bliemeister.

“Bill was larger than life. He accomplished so much yet did it in a way that focused attention on others. He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed,” added Bliemeister.

Bill and his wife, Jeanne, remained active supporters of the Museum throughout their lives.

Their commitment to service continued as they acted as ambassadors for the organization.

Bill was preceded in death by Jeanne. Part of their joint legacy is memorialized in the Museum’s Rotunda, which bears their names.

In addition, the Museum created the William H. Smith Fellows program in 2019 to recognize individuals who have made noteworthy contributions toward the Museum’s advancement.

This year’s class was inducted on October 6th during our annual “Night at the Museum” fundraising event (see page 6). .

William H. ‘Bill’ Smith Scholarship

I

n the spirit of Bill Smith’s untiring devotion and dedication to the AACA Museum, Inc., a friend made a donation to establish the William H. “Bill” Smith Scholarship Fund. Since its inception, additional donors have pushed the fund close to $75,000. “Bill was always interested in the next generation and the future,” said Executive Director, Jeffrey Bliemeister.

“I know he would appreciate the thought of his memory being honored in this way.”

The fund will be administered by a group of Museum staff/board members and Bill’s family. The Museum serves as the caretaker of the funds. Eligibility, distribution, and other information is forthcoming as the program develops. Inquiries and donations may be addressed to the Museum’s mailing address or by calling 717-5667100 ext. 102. Please make checks payable to “AACA Museum, Inc.” and list the Bill Smith Scholarship Fund on the memo line.

The AACA Museum, Inc. offers free admission to Antique Automobile Club of America members continuing the tradition of Bill Smith.

A Message from JEFFREY E. BLIEMEISTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

T

We currently are featuring a new museum-wide exhibit, “Survivors: Unrestored Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles,” as well as Keystone Packards’ beautiful Packard Showroom display in our Williams-Clyne Gallery. The entire Museum is also in full holiday mode with decorations on all three levels.

raditionally, now is the time when things at the Museum slow down.

The seasons have changed, tourists have gone, and car shows are over.

As the end of the year nears, we proudly look back on our accomplishments, memorable milestones, and the return of our signature events.

The Museum is fresh off one of the best summers in its 18-year history. Attendance was record-setting, and we held two outstanding membership drives. You responded each time.

To date, we have achieved the highest membership numbers in Museum history.

This fall the atmosphere felt different following a turbulent 2020 during which we had to forego indoor gatherings. It felt good to welcome guests to “Night at the Museum” and “Autos & Ales.” Both proved to be generously sponsored, well-attended and financially successful.

As we look ahead, our rejuvenated board and staff are full of ideas for events and programs for 2022. The Museum has an energy and momentum that is obvious to everyone who steps into the building. We plan to keep our foot on the pedal going into the new year, and we’re glad to have you along for the ride! Through a focused effort, hard work, and your support, 2021 has proven to be a great year.

Happy Holidays and thanks for your continued support.

The AACA Museum, Inc. is proud to again receive a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Since 2001, Charity Navigator has been empowering donors by providing them with free access to data, tools, and resources to guide philanthropic decision-making.

The Museum’s rating was published 06/01/2021.

2021 Pruiett Volunteer of the Year

Considered a Brass-era car, this 1914 Ford Model T Touring Car was donated in memory of John and Esther Sigmans by their family.

2021 Vehicle Donations

Congratulations to Ken Egan, our 2021 Pruiett Volunteer of the Year. Ken serves as a member of the Volunteer Advisory Committee. He volunteers in a variety of ways including: gallery volunteer, mentor, model T school leader, tour docent, special events, behind the scenes tours, and Museum promotions booth. Ken also works with youth and special needs volunteers and is quick to lend a hand for urgent volunteer needs.

Thank you donors!

• ershyKimoblH • 1985 HondaGlWigMC • 1979 AMCSprint • 1975 Chevyapricontbl • 1964 ChevyINoaS • 1940 FordCabilet • 1939 RolsyceWraith • 1928 StudebakrPsin • 1920 FordMelTRastPickup • 1914 FordMelTuingCa

TheHrsyCompan

RichardLloy

York,PA

DominckC.Fael,Jr

Paul&tricHmpeby

BrianCockl

RobertaSlik

YorkSpings,PA

LoisSnclar

Califon,NJ

Venic,FL

FaithMews

Mechanisburg,PA

James&LindCot

VivanNchols

RogerSimans

SarLndis

Enola,PA Chambersug,PA

Hershy,PA

Lenhartsvil,PA

Copersbug,PA

Copersbug,PA Quakertown,PA

Thanks for all of your support, Ken! We appreciate everything you do.

Car, truck and motorcycle donations through November 2021. Please see Bus/Coach donations on page 19.

3

Record-breaking Membership Growth Fuels Successful Year

Museum Members represent 44 U WA MN OR

WI

Membership jumps an amazing 1000%

T

his year, your involvement pushed Museum memberships to an all-time high. Moreover, in just five years, membership has increased by 1000% — it’s incredible!

As COVID-19 guidelines continued to challenge operations, we have worked hard to reach out to motoring enthusiasts—cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles—to share the vision of the Museum, America’s Transportation Experience, and you responded mightily.

SD

NV CA

IL UT

“

The Museum’s collection is diverse. The changing exhibits allow for you to return multiple times.

The membership fees are reasonable; I would highly recommend joining if you plan on returning.”

Joie Abner Ad Print, Inc, Miguel Albino Jeffrey Aldrich William Alex Michael Alleve Richard Ammon Brian Annett Craig Annibali Wayne Anthony Andrew Anton Frank Antonicelli Randolph Appley Douglas Arnold Alfredo Arocha Lenearo Ashford Steven Awde Stephen Backus Steve Bahm William Bahorik Guy Bair Oleg Bairovich Badmaev Larry Baisch

4

PA PA PA SC MA PA PA FL PA PA VA PA PA PA NJ SC PA MD KS PA PA GA PA

— Greg W. Michael Baker Timothy Baker Michael Balog Bob Baltozer Beth Barber Fedorchak David Barr Theodore Barry Gary Baum Matthew Bell Jordon Beller Daniel Benny Kyle Berkstresser Ken Bigham Robert Bini Raymond Blake James Blinder David Blum Jeffrey Boarman Craig Bober Michael Bodek Erik Bolig Edward Bollard Thomas Booze

PA PA PA PA NY PA PA PA PA IL PA PA PA PA PA IL VA PA MD PA PA PA MD

CO

MO

KS

OK

AZ

AR

M TX

This year’s new members represent 24 states, as well as Puerto Rico, Australia and Belgium. Overall, members hail from 44 U.S. states and territories, the United Kingdom, Canada, Belgium, and Australia.

If you’re a new member, welcome! Thanks for sharing your passion for the motoring hobby with us. Whether faraway or onsite, through digital communication or in-person visits, we’re glad you’re a part of our Museum family. Our members’ dedication enables us to continue our longstanding mission to preserve motor vehicle history, present world-class exhibitions, and offer engaging public outreach programs. Thank you to all who made our unprecedented growth possible.

IA

NE

HI

Gail Bosak Vincent Bousman Heather Brabunier Jeffrey Brashares Alan Breckenmaker Robert Brennan Heidi Brubaker John Brumbaugh Mark R Buckwalter William Budman Frank Burkhart John Burns Lynn Burshtin Michaud Bus Appraisals, LLC David Caldwell Randy Campbell John Cantelmo Sherman Carey Amy Carling William Carlson Milton Carnes Ed Carr Elton Carr Carlos Carrasquillo James Cartmill Tony Castaldo Maxwell Castor Keith Cavral Mike Celmer Robert Chamberlain Max Chaplain Ronald Charles Carl Christiansen Daniel Cirell William Clark Brian Cocklin Robert G Coffey Dom Coladonato Daniel Coller Conestoga Bldgs/Construction

PA PA PA OH PA PA PA PA PA PA NJ PA NJ NH NC MD NJ NC PA CA PA PA PA PR VA NJ NJ RI PA PA NH OH NJ PA NJ PA NY FL PA PA

Frank Conners VA John Conrad PA Diana Cooney PA George Cornnell PA John Corr NY Sean Corr NY Patricia Cowley PA Michael Crawford VA Malcolm Creighton WI Glenn Crockett Jr PA Marina A Croft PA Frank Cross NSW, Australia Larry Croutcher NV John Cupo NJ Shawn Curry NJ Janet Cussler AZ Tonya Daley PA Sunil Daniel PA Hal Daugherty OH Nathaniel Dawes NY Alan Day NY Colleen Day PA Ciji DeJesus PA Peter A. DeAngelo NY Ricky Deardorff PA Robert Decker PA Austin Dellospedale PA Bill Denzel CA DESCCO Design & Construction PA Katie Dethloff PA Antonio Dicristofaro PA Daniel Diehl PA Vitaliy Doboni PA Robert Dohne NY Michael Domingo PA Terry Donmoyer PA Elizabeth Douglas CT Thomas Douville PA Ashton Dovel FL Sean Drasher PA

LA

US States

MS

ME

VT

NH NY

MA CT

MI PA

NJ

OH

IN

RI

DE WV

VA

KY NC

MD DC

TN SC AL

GA

FL

Bryan Dreibelbis Ronald Drnevich Michael Drozd Charles Dunn Lee Eberly Eric Ecklesdafer Jeffrey S Edleman Kristy Eichenlaub Keith Eisenberg Thomas Elbich Steven Ellison Maxine Elvey Richard Epler Barbara Erb Michael Ermilio Christin Evans Jeanette Everham Allen Everk Francis Fabrizio Thomas Ferrara Harry Fies Michael Filanowski Thomas Firey Jamie Folk Ernest Follis Allen Ford Joseph Forish James Fowler Gregory Fox Alan Gallagher John Gaynor Dan Geib Deuce Gibb Joseph (Joe) Gildea Sam and Audrey Glickson Michael Goceljak Susan Goduto Jeff Goldwasser Lazaro Gonzales Leonard Good Lester Good

PA PA CT MA PA VA FL PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA DC NY PA PA PA PA CA MD PA VA PA PA NY PA PA MA PA NJ PA NJ PA PA PA

Chuck Goodwin James Govoni Dane Grandizio Martyn Green Barbara Green David Greene David Gregg Kenneth Griffith William Groff Jane Grove Jeff Grove Kevin Grove Beth Guers Sean Gulbrandsen Steven Haines Thomas Haines Jonathan Halem Shirley Hammond Cathy Harker Scott Harring Ernest Hart Jonathan Hart Joseph Hart-Bowley Gary Haugley James Hayes Dave Hazzard Jay Heckman C. Wade Heddy John Hemcher Saundra Hennigan Dave Hermanson Mike Hess Michael Hied Vicki Hineline Norman Hines David Hirsch Stephen Hitz Stan Holter Harold Hood Rachel Hoover Randall Hoover John Hotz Stewart Howden Kenny Howe Dolores Howell Roger Hummel Patricia Humpleby Clifford Huntington Darlene Hurley Michael Hurley Jim Hutchins Sarah Inman Ken Irvine Eleane Jackson Megan Jacobs Lee Jacobsen Charles Jasiewicz Tom Jebran William Jenne Roy Johns, Jr. Robert D. Johnston Eric Jones Kieran Joyce Rob Kain Peter Kelly Liz Kemmery Rick Kier Andrea King Robert Kinker David Kirby

NY MD PA PA PA PA DE PA NJ PA PA PA VA PA PA MD PA PA NV OH IL PA VA CA PA PA PA PA PA PA TN PA PA MD MD PA PA MN PA PA PA NJ PA NH PA PA PA NJ PA PA PA MD PA OH PA MI PA PA PA PA PA OH PA PA PA PA PA PA VA VA

John Kirk Robert Kish Steve Kish Adam Kisthardt David Klee Scott Knighton Dennis Koch John Kovach Jon Kramer Joe Kress Andrew Krissansen Brian Krug Jason Kunec Donald Kunkle Thomas Kuplin Diane Kupstas Bill Kynett Brian Lacher Ed Laman Clotee Lang Roger Larocque Christine LaRuffa Paul Leavy Michael Lee Jim Leida Peter Leiss Gregory Leiter William Leonard George A Lesher Alexandra Lester James S Lewis Daniel Light Jeffrey Lipitz John Livering Mark Livings Richard Lloyd Stoyan Lokar Wayne Lonabaugh Peter Lorenzo Jennifer Lucier Alex Lukacs Brian Lynch Rod Macintyre Don Maclaren Bruce Maguire Megan Mann David March Jeffrey Markel James Martin David Maule Allan L. Maybee Fran Mayer Larry McClelland Jack McClow Phillip McCormick Bill McCreery Stephanie McDermott John McDonnell Thomas McMichael Kieran McNamara Clarence McNeal Howard Mehrer Gregg Merksamer James Messersmith Dennis Metzger Martin Mieras Donald Miller John Miller Paul A Miller Paul Miller

PA PA GA FL MD PA IL PA AZ PA PA PA PA PA NJ PA PA IN PA PA PA PA PA PA DE PA PA PA PA PA PA PA NY PA PA PA PA NJ NY PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA CT DE MD PA NY PA NJ PA NY MD NJ NY ME NY MI PA PA PA PA

Nadia Misbahuddin Barbara Mizdail Randy Mladenoff Dale Moll Daniel Montgomery Jamie Morral Daniel Mosemann Tom Muller Robert Murphy Carol Myers James Myers Marc Nachman John Nash Kevin Nash Carl Naylor Charlie Neal Tanya Negron Rex Neibar Rafiq Nelson George Newberry Steve Nott Michael Null Eric Olson John Olszowka Howard Orenstein M. Owenby (Christian Tours) Anthony Pagano Perrin Palistrant Tim Pantel James Paragallo John Pardoe James Parsons Matthew Peck Perry Peck Melissa A Penkrot Pequea Machine Inc. James Peters L Scott Petersen Joseph Pezzano Jon Phillips Andrew Picariello Paul Piccone David Pinto Kyle Poffenberger Mark Porcaro Susan Porter Ken Presley Peter Preston Gary Progar Jay Prouse William Quoos Bryner Raudibaugh Boyd Raymond Jeff Reade Todd Rebbel Paul Reichart William Reigle Brenda Reisinger-Kellar Jeff Renaldo Richard Renza Dean Reonieri Roberts Rhoades John Rhodes John Rissler Nicholas Rizzo Steve Roberts Michael Robinson Rob Rohrer

PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA MD MD PA PA PA NY PA NJ NJ PA WA PA HI NY NC NY VA NY NJ ME PA VA PA PA PA ME PA NJ PA MA PA NJ PA PA CT VA PA DE MD PA PA NY CA MD PA PA PA NY NJ PA TN PA PA NY PA NY PA

Continued p.6 >

5

Dominick Romagna PA John Romagna PA Anthony Romano NY Jimmy Rosen PA Lee Rowe PA Ronald Rubinstein PA Tony Ryckman VA Joseph Salvo CA Stephen Sassani PA Rebecca Sawtelle CT Albert Schaefer OH Joel Schaeffer PA Grant H. Schneider SD Saundra Schoicket PA Adam Schoolsky NH Dan Schrock IN Dan Schubert PA William Schulz NJ Michael Schwartz CT Thomas Schwarz OH John Schwear PA Frederick Schwenker PA Janice Scovic OH James Seifrit PA Jim Seman PA Charles Sennett PA Paul Sevag PA William Sewell PA Robert Shaffer PA George Shearer Pa James Sherma PA Mark Shields PA Cheryl Shiflett MD J Larry Shirk PA Larry Shoop PA Khayyam Siddiqui PA David Silber PA Michael Simon PA Lois Sinclair FL Larry Singer NJ James Sipe PA Todd A Sitler PA George Slezak VA Roberta Sliker NJ Abby Smith PA Mary Smith PA Kenneth Snyder PA Lawrence Sorcher NJ August Spadone PA Brian Spector PA Vance Spicer PA Rich Spina PA Daniel Sponenburg PA Allan St. Marie CA B. Wayne Stambaugh PA David Starbuck NJ Jared States PA Frank Stech NJ Russell Stellfox NC Roger Sternfeld PA Edward Stevens PA Ron Stevens PA Neil Stoddard MD Raymond Stolz PA John Stoudt FL David Stovall MD Kenneth Strickhouser Jr PA Alex Stroinovsky Brussels, Belgium Amanda Styer PA Andrew Surmacz PA

6

Greg Susla Robert Swarthout Grace Sweigart Robert Swisher John Szeerba Chip Tamagni Carol Tanzola Mathew Taylor Dave Teller Randall Tenney Alan Terek The Stanley Museum Tom Thomas Ashley Renae Thompson Bart Timmerman Mark Tomasula Mike Tonelli Timothy Traum Richard Trexler Nicholas Tsipras Bernard Tucker George Turnbaugh Lee Turner Jack Ulrich Joe Ulrich John Vanfradenburgh Anthony Vasile Myron Vernis Amanda Vilfort George Villnave Ian Wallace Joseph Watson Peter Watson Ivan Watts Donald Weaver Van Webster Robert Weidenhammer David Weinstein Michael Welch Fred Wendling Lynn Wenger Harry Wertsch Kim White Gregory White Timothy White Curt Whitfield Robert Whitmoyer James Wild Sam Wilder Edward Wildman R Wilson Wilmer Kathleen Wilson Robert Witt Paul Wolfmeyer Bryan Woodall Gregory S. Yemm Jim Yemzow James Yocum Tom Yoder Jay Young Fred Young Tom Young Paul Youshock Scott Yucha Thomas Zapcic Charles Zaprala Charles Zelle Abigail Zieger Justin Zimmerman

MD NY PA PA PA PA PA NC PA PA PA ME PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA PA NY DE OH PA PA PA PA PA MD MD PA PA NY VA PA PA PA PA PA NY PA PA PA PA PA NJ PA MD NJ PA PA PA PA MA PA NJ CA PA PA PA PA MN PA PA

Two Major Events Return and Celebrate Unmatched Success Proceeds grow by nearly 20%

T

wo of the Museum’s signature events on hiatus last year returned this fall, and their success topped all expectations. Thanks to our generous sponsors, dedicated staff, volunteers, and attendees, Night at the Museum (NATM) and Autos & Ales broke fundraising records continuing a multi-year trend of establishing new high marks in Museum development. Event proceeds grew by approximately 20% in comparison to 2019’s events.

Night at the Museum On October 6th, Night at the Museum (NATM)—themed “Cars and Country Music”—welcomed guests back to the annual event.

Patrons enjoyed a relaxing evening celebrating the Museum’s achievements and honoring outstanding individuals for their contributions to the motoring hobby. Also, the event featured a silent auction and a mini-concert by country and bluegrass band Troy Engle and Southern Skies.

Museum President Richard Sills

Honoree Jim Schmidt (R) & his son Rick

Board President Richard Sills presented the 2021 AACA Museum, Inc. Automotive Heritage Award to Jim Schmidt, honoring his lifelong commitment to the motoring hobby. Jim, the founder of NPD, is an antique auto enthusiast and collector who believes in giving back through support and philanthropy. We genuinely appreciate Jim’s dedication to the Museum and his exceptional contributions to the hobby.

Additionally, this year’s class of William H. Smith Fellows was recognized. The 2021 class includes Edward (posthumously) and Rose Ann Maloy, Dennis “Denny” Schwenk, and Howard (posthumously) and Judith Scotland.

Dennis “Denny” Schwenk

Judith Scotland

Rose Maloy

We are grateful to everyone who contributed auction items, donated services, or placed ads in our keepsake NATM program.

All of these efforts helped to make NATM a success. We are also pleased to acknowledge and thank our generous sponsors.

• Premier Sponsor: Members 1st Federal Credit Union • Presenting Sponsor: PNC Bank • Platinum Sponsors: Benecard-NVA, J.C. Taylor Insurance, UPMC, Winters Automotive & Trailers, and Dr. Jerome Marcus • Gold Sponsors: The Collection at Hershey, McNees, Wallace & Nurick LLC, Prueitt & Sons Automotive Restoration, and Toni Rothman

Autos & Ales Autos & Ales returned for its 11th offering on November 5th. The Museum hosted a record 41 craft breweries from across the state and beyond.

Approximately 700 guests were treated to delicious craft brews and the event’s signature beer “Tucker Pucker Torpedo” brewed by Snitz Creek Brewery. Food from C&J Catering and live music from central PA favorite “Smooth Like Clyde,“ rounded out the evening. Special thanks to our Platinum Sponsor, Winters Automotive & Trailers of East Prospect, PA and Gold Sponsor, Members 1st Federal Credit Union. We are already working on next year’s event, scheduled for November 4th, 2022!

The New Year Begins a New Video Series Series three begins in January

A

s the COVID-19 crisis wreaked havoc across the global landscape, we introduced new ways to provide motoring enthusiasts with compelling content that could be enjoyed at home or anywhere.

After initially creating the Museum’s virtual tours, Elena Saft produced the first series of Collection Chronicles videos with the help of staff and volunteers. The series presents unique stories about vehicles from the Museum’s collection told

by Museum Board members. Randy Monceaux followed with an additional complement of videos.

Now, the third series of Collection Chronicles is set to launch in the new year. The videos are presented bi-weekly as part of our Keep Up to Speed, FREE weekly email newsletters, on our website, or on our YouTube channel. To subscribe to our e-newsletter, view current videos, or connect with our YouTube channel, visit AACAmuseum.org.

Some of the upcoming Collection Chronicles features are: • 1931 Ford Model A Roadster with Rumble Seat • 1914 Ford Model T Touring • 1941 Lincoln-Zephyr V-12 Ambulance • 1960 Studebaker Lark 4-Door Sedan • 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 • 1975 AMC Pacer

Our 1941 Lincoln-Zephyr V-12 Ambulance is among the vehicles featured in the upcoming Collection Chronicles video series

7

What’s On?

T

he 2021 fall exhibits are on display now through April 22, 2022. Throughout the Museum, the featured exhibit is Survivors: Unrestored Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles. The Williams-Clyne Gallery is home to the Packard Showroom display. In January, a vintage license plate display is planned for the Members 1st Federal Credit Union Gallery.

The Museum remains committed to the health and safety of our guests. COVID-19 guidelines are continually monitored. Our goal is to offer a safe and welcoming environment.

Packard Showroom Presently our Williams-Clyne Showroom Gallery is the home of Keystone Packards’ historic Packard display. The company was considered the preeminent producer of luxury cars before World War II. Owning the renowned marque was prestigious and a favorite with European royalty, celebrities, and American corporate tycoons. President Franklin Roosevelt was known to give limousines as gifts on several occasions.

With little regard to expense, the vehicles boasted engineering prowess using the best of everything. Packard became synonymous with luxury, quality, refinement, and reliability.

1936, Packard Model 1401 Victoria Convertible. Manufactured by Packard Motor Car Company

Survivors There is debate about the definition of the term “survivor car.”

Here is our simple definition: “A survivor is a classic vehicle that has not been altered in any way since it was built.”

Generally, most agree that survivor cars — and survivor trucks and survivor motorcycles — must have the original paint job, original interior, and parts. It’s an added bonus to have documentation confirming the location and date of the vehicle’s original purchase.

1953 Packard Caribbean Convertible. Manufactured by Packard Motor Car Company.

Onsite and Online: Model T: Coast-to-Coast

With this in mind, we put together an outstanding array of “Survivors” for our featured exhibit.

Something Special, the Model T recently driven coast-to-coast by Tom Cotter was displayed at the Museum

1953 Ford Club Coupe

1957 Chrysler New Yorker Coupe

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

1958 Buick Series 40 Special Estate Wagon

8

O

ur “AACA Museum Live” webcast featuring “Barn Finds” author Tom Cotter and his experiences driving coast-to-coast in a 1926 Ford Model T was a treat for all who participated. Tom and Dave Coleman drove the Speedster 3,707 miles on the Lincoln Highway (US Route 30) from Manhattan to San Francisco. The duo shared stories about the places, the people, the food, and the unique accommodation: e.g., New Jersey diners, Flight 93 Memorial, Iowa cornfields, American Pickers, the Salt Flats, Nevada Casinos, getting up and over the Rockies, and more. The videocast attracted viewers from as far away as Canada, Spain, and the UK. It is avaiable on our website, AACAmuseum.org/video-gallery

T H E A A C A M U S E U M FA M I LY: T U C K E R AU T O M O B I L E C L U B O F A M E R I C A

VOLUME 50 • ISSUE 2

The Origin of

Style Style

1936: Alex Tremulis’ bubble top rendering for Briggs incorporating similar fenders as designed into the Tucker 48. Photo: Alex Tremulis Archives

9

Tucker #1014 as seen at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

“It looks as if it’s going 90 even while standing still.” Photo: Steve Tremulis

STYLING SPOTLIGHT:

The Tucker 48’s Unique Front Fenders

By Steve Tremulis

Steve Tremulis is a biomedical engineer and an inventor with more than 50 patents. He is the nephew of Alex Tremulis, Preston Tucker’s Chief Stylist for the Tucker 48. Also he is curator of his uncle’s incredible archive of photos, drawings, speeches, and models spanning over a halfcentury of automobile design.

A long-time board member for Tucker Automobile Club of America, Steve now serves on the AACA Museum, Inc.’s Tucker Advisory Committee.

10

T

he Tucker’s styling has sparked many opinions and descriptions throughout the decades. There appears to be little room for indifference. Either you love it or hate it. At its June 18, 1947 unveiling, one of the attending reporters described what it was like to first see Preston Tucker’s car of tomorrow:

“In an expectant hush suitable to so historic an event, the curtains of an improvised platform parted, revealing to the accompaniment of pleased gasps a maroon teardrop creation so low and sweeping in its lines that one reporter wrote, ‘It looks as if it’s going 90 even while standing still.’ About as long as a Cadillac, it had a third, ‘Cyclops eye,’ headlight planted in the middle of the nose. The front bumper looked like the horns of a Texas steer, and the front fenders curved like the half-folded wings of a hovering bird.”

As with most iconic designs, those fenders have a compelling story of their own.

The drama surrounding the rise and fall of the Tucker Corporation and its impact on society has been told many times over in books and in film, but there’s a fascinating origin to those unique front fenders that dates back over a decade before their debut on the Tucker 48 that has yet to be told, until now.

“A Real Designer” Their origins can be traced back to a future Automotive Hall of Fame stylist still cutting his teeth in the styling world.

Alex Tremulis pursued his passion for drawing cars by playing hooky from school, but unlike most kids with a day off, Tremulis spent his time at the dealerships for Stutz and Duesenberg, drawing the magnificent automobiles displayed in their Michigan Avenue showrooms on Chicago’s famed “Motor Row.” His talents were soon recognized

by Donn Hogan, the sales manager at Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg.

At the ultra-luxury dealership, you didn’t just buy a Duesenberg off the showroom floor, rather you would buy the Duesenberg chassis and a special coach builder would design and build the custom bodywork to your liking. Using Tremulis as the local illustrator, Hogan could bypass the time it would normally take to send a customer’s ideas to the Indianapolis-based headquarters for a drawing and have a sketch in the customer’s hands the very next day. Tremulis was paid $1.00 for a pencil sketch and $2.50 for a rendering in color. To the fledgling designer, even one dollar was a huge increase in pay over the 10 cents an hour he was paid for shoveling rotten fruit out of grocery vendors. With his first real paying job, he said “Now I am a designer” and never looked back.

Influence of the Masters Within a couple of years, Tremulis eventually found steady work under the great Gordon Buehrig at Auburn, learning the ropes from the master. He proved to be a fast learner and a talented artist. So much so that when Buehrig left Auburn in 1936, Tremulis was promoted to Chief Stylist at the age of 22. Buehrig, however, wouldn’t be the only automobile designer to influence the young stylist.

In his search for a more reliable income,

C1926: One of John Tjaarda’s first Sterkenburg concepts for a new streamlined, rear-engine automobile. Photo: Detroit Public Library Digital Collections

Hans Ledwinka, designer of the Tatra, often compared to the styling of the Tucker 48. Photo: Source unknown

1933: John Tjaarda with his rear-engine Sterkenburg prototype, “The Briggs Dream Car”, the basis for the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr. Photo: Source unknown

1936 Lincoln Zephyr. Photo: Source unknown

Tremulis had found his way into the styling studios at Briggs Manufacturing in Detroit, where he was brought in under the tutelage of another noted designer, John Tjaarda. It would be his first of several stints at Briggs and LeBaron.

At the time, Briggs was best known for building the bodies for several car companies including Ford and Chrysler under the LeBaron nameplate. Edsel Ford often sought refuge in the design work at Briggs as it offered a welcome relief from the tight reigns Henry Ford kept on his son’s styling ideas. Luckily, Tjaarda tasked Tremulis with putting down on paper the styling discussions that Edsel Ford would have with Tjaarda’s staff. Tremulis recalled one discussion with Edsel Ford about the value of the horizontal beltline in creating the image of a longer, lower body design. Ford demonstrated the illusion by folding a sketch and illuminating it by candlelight at various angles, a moment that would leave an everlasting image in the psyche of Tremulis.

It would be one of Tjaarda’s earlier designs for Ford, however, that would surely have as much an influence on Tremulis as any of Edsel Ford’s tricks of the trade. In the 1920s Tjaarda pursued a series of ultra-streamlined automobiles he called the Sterkenburgs, visually similar to the design of Hans Ledwinka’s Tatra. Tjaarda’s Sterkenburgs were also seen as aerodynamic as their rear-engine designs allowed for an overall teardrop shape to cheat the wind.

By 1933 he had refined the Sterkenburg into a prototype that was presented by Ford at the 1933-34 World’s Fair in Chicago. Dubbed “The Briggs Dream Car”, it could be considered as one of the very first concept cars shown to the public to judge viewer reactions. Ford liked what they both saw and heard and pursued the concept, although they felt it would be better accepted by the general public with the engine located up front under the Lincoln nameplate. The task of modifying the front end to accept the more conventional engine placement would go to the talented Bob Gregorie, but most of the design credit for the 1936 Lincoln Zephyr would rightly go to Tjaarda.

11

reference while sketching out his ideas for Tucker’s winged fenders, but first the world would have to grapple with the looming international conflict destined to impact so many lives.

The War Years World War II brought a temporary suspension of all automobile manufacturing and a focus towards supporting the war effort. In February of 1942, General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, and all other car manufacturers mothballed their civilian automobile tooling in order to produce aircraft, tanks, jeeps, ships, and the millions of accessories needed to win a war.

It wasn’t until 1945 that the resumption of manufacturing cars for the general public would resume, albeit rather slowly.

1948: Alex Tremulis in his Tucker styling studio with the Cord rendering seen to his right. “A room hung with pictures is a room hung with thoughts” – Sir Joshua Reynolds, 1723-1792 Photo: Jim Gaylord/Alex Tremulis Archives

Tremulis later compared John Tjaarda to Preston Tucker as “a tireless proponent of the rear-engined automobile, whose enthusiasm for the principle reduced every other configuration to the status of a Napoleonic coach.” The advantages Tjaarda saw in a rear engine placement were not lost on Tremulis, and he quickly became a disciple.

Rear Engine Placement With the weight of the engine in the back over the drive wheels, traction and stability would be greatly improved. No

driveshaft running the length of the car meant no hump running through the passenger compartment, leaving more room for travelers to stretch their legs.

Engine noise and the mechanics of transferring power were located well behind the driver, resulting in a quieter ride. With these benefits in mind, in February of 1936, Tremulis drew up his own proposal for Briggs based on Tjaarda’s philosophy.

His rendering of an aerodynamic bubble-topped, rear-engined concept was nothing short of spectacular. It would be this rendering that Tremulis would later

January 1946: Tremulis’ initial renderings of the steerable “cyclops” headlight and the elimination of the pontoon fenders. Photos: Alex Tremulis Archives

12

It would take until 1949 for production to equal its pre-war 1941 levels even though the pent-up demand for new cars was considerable. The tooling used to meet the consumers’ demand, however, was the same tooling that was placed in storage before the shutdown, meaning that your new car after the war was essentially identical to the car you had before the war. This left a tremendous opportunity for a new car manufacturer to create a new design without having to rely on old tooling to meet the demand created by the shutdown.

Enter Preston Tucker Enter Preston Tucker with a futuristic “Car of Tomorrow” that grabbed the attention of every new car buyer. It wasn’t a hard sell: Would you rather buy a new car that still looked like that old broken-down car in your garage, or step into the future with a sleek, new design with novel features not found in most of its contemporaries? The new Tucker would indeed capture the imagination of an entire nation through both advertising and word of mouth. And it would be the new streamlined Tucker, with its rear-engine layout and “a series of spectacular engineering innovations”, that would prompt Alex Tremulis to schedule an appointment with Preston Tucker.

Little did Tremulis know at the time, but Preston Tucker’s initial stylist for Tucker’s “Torpedo”, George Lawson, had left the company months earlier, leaving a void within the design department.

Indeed, Tucker was behind in showing progress on his new car. In September 1946, Preston Tucker had promised a prototype car by Christmas. In October, he again promised a prototype demonstrator would be ready by the first of the new year. So, when Tremulis met with Tucker in December, the timing was perfect to bring in his fresh ideas, and he wasted no time in creating the first prototype, the “Tin Goose”. But first, a new design had to be created, roughly based on images and a 1:4 scale model that Lawson had provided. As Alex Tremulis recalled, “One of the first problems I had to overcome was to convince Tucker that the movable front fenders had to go.”

Tremulis’ supercharged Cord rendering contributed its fenders to the Tucker 48. Photo: Alex Tremulis Archives

Time was of the essence and the engineering difficulties in sorting out Lawson’s cycle fenders did not support Preston Tucker’s desire to have a prototype built within 60 days. So Tremulis re-designed the car with conventional fixed fenders and made the center headlight turn with the wheels instead of the movable fenders. Tremulis’ elegantly simple solution retained the safety factor of being able to see where you’re turning, yet significantly shortened the timeline to completion of the first prototype.

Tremulis Leads Prototype Design Along with the deletion of the steerable fenders, he also eliminated the flowing pontoons from his first initial series of drawings as he felt they were already dated. Preston Tucker, however, liked the first fenders and felt first impressions were usually correct, so the unique pontoons stayed. A great decision, as these characteristic fenders would forever be identified with the Tucker. With these design changes also came a new name: The Tucker 48. Gone was the Torpedo name as it was decided that the explosive reference was too reminiscent of the horrors of the war just ended.

That brings us back to those unique “half-folded wing” fenders where a glimpse into Tremulis’ design studio completes the story. A vintage photo of Tremulis in the Tucker styling studio shows a wall of renderings that not only illustrate new Tucker concepts but also include a few drawings from Tremulis’ past. One such drawing, in

A comparison of the Cord fender with the March 1947 patent illustration (yellow overlay) for the Tucker automobile showing identical contour and dimensions. Photo: A. Tremulis Archives, US Patent and Trademark Office

particular, harkens back to his days at Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg. He had conceptualized what he thought would have been a natural progression for the supercharged line of Cord automobiles had the company survived. The beautiful rendering not only includes Tremulis’ original contributions to the supercharged Cord 812 with the external exhausts but also includes a sweeping pontoon front fender much lower in profile and more streamlined than on the original Cord. But a closer look reveals significant insight into the mind of the stylist: When compared to the March 1947 illustration used for the Tucker patent application, the fender has precisely the same contour and dimensions as those on the Tucker 48. Throughout the following months of development, the curves were slightly refined, but the basic shape from the Cord remained. The unique Tucker

fenders, so readily identified with the “Car of Tomorrow”, ended up being inspired by the Briggs bubble top and, for all practical purposes, came straight off a supercharged Cord.

A Final Thought And that completes the story of how the winged fenders came to be. But, as with all “new” designs, the development of each of the other notable features of the Tucker also tells similar stories of how they came about. As the master portrait artist from the 18th century, Sir Joshua Reynolds, so astutely noted: “Invention, strictly speaking, is little more than a new combination of those images which have been previously gathered and deposited in the memory. Nothing can be made of nothing; he who has laid up no materials can produce no combinations.”

13

Winners!

W

e recently learned that two AACA Museum, Inc. publications received Golden Quill awards from Old Cars Weekly. Old Cars Weekly covers the entire field of collectible automobiles. Tucker Topics Volume 48, Issue 1 featuring the story “Reviving & Driving #1026” earned accolades as well as the Fall 2020 edition of Reflections. Reflections included a Tucker feature focusing on #1035 in Brazil written by Irene MacDonald and “Finding Rare Tucker Relics” written by Mark Lieberman and Mike Tucker. Congratulations to all whose work helped to spotlight the Tucker legacy and The Cammack Tucker Gallery at the Museum.

14

Tucker’s Role in Education

T

he Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Act 48 requires all PA-certified educators to participate annually in ongoing professional education. The Department has granted Act 48 eligibility status to the Museum through the Harrisburg Intermediate Unit (IU15). The Museum offers an Act 48 approved Professional Education Plan designed to meet the continuing education needs of schools and professional employees so they, in turn, may meet the specific needs of students. One of the Museum’s history-focused and innovation-centered lesson plans focuses on “Preston Tucker’s Dream Car – the Tucker 48.” Other current topics include pre-World War II American Classics with modules on: “Henry Ford Puts America on Wheels” and “The Blue-Collar Three (Depression Era 1929 – Ford Model A, Chevrolet Big Six and Plymouth Model U).” For information, please contact the Museum or visit: AACAmuseum.org/learn/act48.

Call for Volunteers for Tucker Celebration

A

s we begin plans for our 2023 75th Anniversary celebration of the Tucker 48, we know that it will definitely be a team effort. If you are interested in volunteering to help with the event tentatively planned for June 18, 2023, please let us know. You can sign up on the Museum’s website and let us know your interests and availability. We look forward to connecting with you. Volunteer at AACAmuseum.org/Tucker75.

Next Virtual Tucker Talk Features Tucker Movie

T

he first Virtual Tucker Talk gathered Tucker enthusiasts for a ‘live’ Zoom forum led by Tucker Historian Larry Clark. Larry and Mark Lieberman discussed how Mark and his team got #1026 operational for the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Despite technical difficulties, the talk was well-received. Now, we’re ready for what’s next.

Virtual Tucker Talk January 22, 11 a.m. EST “The Tucker Movie: What’s Real, What’s Not Real?”

Francis Ford Coppola’s 1988 film, Tucker: The Man and His Dream has become a classic automobile-themed movie, especially for Tucker car enthusiasts. Also, the movie is frequently shown and studied in today’s college entrepreneurship classes. For all, the frequent question is “what’s real, what’s not real?” in key scenes within the movie. Tucker family members John Tucker, Jr. and Cynthia Fordon join Larry Clark to discuss what’s real in a number of key scenes in the movie. Also, they will share firsthand insights into behind-the-scenes matters associated with the making of the movie. Get your popcorn ready and join the discussion.

UPDATE MARK LIEBERMAN, AACA MUSEUM TUCKER HISTORIAN AND ADVISOR

W

ith 2021 now in the rear view mirror, we look ahead to 2022 for exciting new Tucker events.

Among the things we look forward to is the continuation of Larry Clark’s online Tucker Talk. On January 22nd, Larry will resume his series of online presentations and discussions on a variety of Tucker-related topics. January’s discussion will focus on fact-checking the movie, Tucker: The Man and His Dream. In this Zoom formatted presentation, Larry will dispel myths and confirm accuracies. He will be joined by John Tucker, Jr. and Cynthia Fordon, Preston Tucker’s grandchildren. This promises to be very informative and a lot of fun. Participants will be able to ask questions and interact with Larry, John, and Cynthia. Be sure to sign up early.

Plans for the 75th anniversary celebration of the Tucker 48 continue to come together. June 18, 2023 has been selected for this epic event. It will be held at the AACA Museum, Inc. and happen in conjunction with the annual cruise in. Of course, every Tucker will be invited. Special presentations will be scheduled along with a banquet, auction and other activities. Be sure to save the date.

Another way to enjoy this incredible event is to be a volunteer.

Join us and help to make this the best Tucker celebration ever.

Volunteer at AACAmuseum.org/Tucker75.

If you haven’t visited the Cammack Gallery in a while, make plans to do so. It’s a great way to connect with the Tucker story and see the largest collection of Tucker automobiles, Tucker engines, test chassis, artifacts, memorabilia and documents in the world! Tucker #1001, #1022 and #1026 (the only remaining Tuckermatic) are on display. Experience the legend first hand.

Lastly, on behalf of all of the Tucker enthusiasts and fans, I’d like to take this opportunity and extend our most heartfelt appreciation to the Cammack family. If it wasn’t for David Cammack’s vision and dedication to the Tucker automobile and his family’s continued support, we would not have these treasures here to appreciate, study and marvel at. Thank you, so very much!

Registration opens on December 13. Details will be available at AACAmuseum.org/event/tucker-movie

15

Bus Musings

T H E A A C A M U S E U M FA M I LY: T H E M U S E U M O F B U S T R A N S P O R TAT I O N

VOLUME 37 • ISSUE 2

A Sage Tribute

By David Millhouser

A

faded photo hangs on the office wall of Peter Pan Bus Lines maintenance facility in Providence, RI. The photo remains in place as a tribute to Bonanza Bus Lines founder George M. Sage. Sage constructed the building to support his transportation company operations. Since Peter Pan Bus Lines acquired the building when they purchased Bonanza in 2003 the photo stands as a reminder of George’s enduring legacy.

George M. Sage Bonanza Bus Founder and Operator

16

for storing the coaches not currently on display in the Museum, but essential for doing mechanical maintenance and repair.

Sage’s Success George was involved in a number of business ventures, but his greatest success was in bus transportation. In 1970, he merged two New England carriers—The Short Line and Interstate Buses—to form Bonanza Bus Lines.

George’s impact reaches beyond New England.

On the grounds of the AACA Museum, Inc., the Bus Transportation Annex houses one of the nation’s largest collections of full-sized vintage buses and coaches. The Annex is named for George M. Sage, honoring his commitment to the industry and his philanthropy.

A gifted businessman, his success and dedication earned wide-spread recognition, and he was inducted as a member of the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame in 2009. His hall of fame citation reads, in part “...he parlayed a one-bus route transporting apple pickers to and from work, into the very successful Bonanza Bus Company.”

In the past 18 months the Museum’s historic fleet has grown by more than 20% to over 50 buses. The Sage Annex is not only invaluable

The citation also pointed out that George was considered “one of the most beloved Rhode Islanders of his generation.” He had an enduring

Plan Now for the MOBT Spring Fling, June 3rd - 4th

A Bonanza Bus Lines 9404 is an MCI motor coach which was used on the service from Providence, Rhode Island to New York. Photo courtesy of Richard Simons, Doncaster, UK. Used with permission.

impact through his philanthropic endeavors, planning and executing a legacy of giving that continues to benefit Rhode Islanders.

The picture, with his big trademark smile, surrounded by Bonanza’s maintenance staff is a great metaphor. He loved all his employees, and it shows. It’s been nearly 20 years since Bonanza was sold to Peter Pan Bus Lines, and still the photo proudly hangs on that wall.

tion, and he remains a legend in New England bus lore and beyond.

fter the 2021 successful return of the Museum’s Bus Transportation Spring Fling, we’re already planning for 2022. Mark your calendar for June 3rd and 4th to join us for our celebration of the bus industry and its unique heritage. Details and registration will be available soon. Visit: AACAmuseum. org/SpringFling

George died in 2006 and bequeathed a substantial sum to support the Museum of Bus Transportation. It’s fair to say that without his generosity the Museum would not have survived in its present form. The AACA Museum family, which includes the Museum of Bus Transportation, and the entire motor coach industry, owe him a great deal.

Everyone in the photo who hasn’t retired or passed away remembers him with great affec-

‘The Waltons: Homecoming’ Features Museum Bus

A

welcome holiday treat occurred on November 28th. The CW network presented the premiere of “The Waltons’ Homecoming,” a warm remake of the 1971 film that led to TV’s beloved “Waltons” series. And, what makes it even more heartwarming for the Museum’s bus enthusiasts? Our 1929 Yellow Coach—part of our historic fleet on loan from Fullington Bus—appears in the movie.

The new special came on the 50th anniversary of the original movie, “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story.” The new movie is narrated by the original John Boy, Richard Thomas, who says this version shows that “love is the most important factor.”

1929 Yellow Coach appeared in “The Waltons Homecoming.” Photo by Gary Hatt.

17

This may be the one that started it all

I

n the 1970s and 80s the late bus photographer/historian Bob Redden supported motor coach industry enthusiasts with gatherings of antique coaches he called “Bus Bashes”, which were very similar to the Museum of Bus Transportation’s “Spring Fling.”

Owner and company patriarch Alex Michaud had begun naming buses after his kids, and he dubbed the round-back GM “Little Spike.”

Michaud Bus Lines bought the antique coach, and Spike and Bob drove it to Salem, where it was restored.

Bob had a deep appreciation of buses, and established a long friendship with the family that owned Michaud Bus Lines in Salem, MA. If you’re unfamiliar with his work, take note of the many old motor coach photos that come from “Redden Archives.”

Redden formed a club of enthusiasts named the “Little Spike Club” and began organizing annual Bus Bashes all over the country. The Little Spike Club evolved into International Bus Collectors (IBC), a club and publication for folks who loved bus history.

In 1979, Bob called his friend James “Spike” Michaud with news that Red Hicks, President of Batavia, New York-based Empire Trailways wanted to sell their 1947 GM PD3703. Redden knew that Michaud Bus Lines had operated a similar coach in the 1950s.

During an economic downturn, Michaud sold the bus to Louis Magnano of Blue Bird Coach Lines, who ultimately donated it to the Museum of Bus Transportation, where it was refurbished again, this time by ABC Companies, funded by the Michaud family’s generosity.

Empire Trailways 3703 before restoration. Bob Redden photo

18

Restored as “Little Spike” near New York City. Bob Redden photo

A Look Back and a Thankful Perspective

The human Little Spike has grown into Spike Michaud of Michaud Bus Appraisals, a New Hampshire-based firm that provides bus fleet values to motor coach operators, insurers and financial institutions all over the US. Many bus history enthusiasts believe that the 1947 GM PD3703 coach was the catalyst in jump-starting the movement to preserve the history of the bus industry. We are grateful to have the coach as part of our bus fleet.

By DAVE MILLHOUSER

A Alex and Dorothy Michaud, owners of Michaud Bus Lines posed with one of the buses in their fleet

2021 Bus Donations

Thank you donors!

s we look back on 2021, the Museum of Bus Transportation has a great deal to be grateful for this year despite the pandemic. Here is a look back at a few notable accomplishments.

Ash Dovel, a friend of the Museum, loaned us his beautifully restored Scenicruiser to display at the United Motor coach Association’s Expo in Orlando (so we didn’t have to transport ours that far), and our 4104 made an appearance at Pennsylvania Bus Association’s Annual Motor coach Safety & Preparedness Workshop. These were great opportunities to highlight the importance of the bus industry and its history.

Our fleet grew from 40 buses to 53, including very rare antiques, and ten of our buses made appearances in movies this year. In addition to raising awareness of bus history on a national scale, participating in movie-making has provided a source of revenue.

The George M. Sage Bus Annex is in the best shape ever. A donation of shelving is making it possible for volunteers to catalog and store new and donated parts.

1935 Yellow Coach 722 Shoup Bus Lines (Middlebury Bus Lines) Middlebury, IN John Shoup Estate by Dan Shoup

1947 Fitzjohn Coach Transit Premier Transportation Nick Cazana Knoxville, TN 1964 MCI MC-5 Coach Tours

1998 MCI 102D3 Bailey Coach 2000 MCI G4100 Trans Bridge Lines

As part of the AACA Museum, Inc. family, the support and focus on bus transportation is greater than ever. We’re thankful to all who have made financial stability possible. When it comes to preserving the history of the bus industry and raising it in the national consciousness, there is a lot to do. One example is our Fitzjohn. Only a few are left, and fewer remain that were built with aluminum skin. We’re looking forward to doing great things.

1947 Fitzjohn Coach

Ira Steinberg Est. Brookfield, CT.

By Alison Schukal, Lauren Rowland John Bailey

Spring Grove, PA

Tom JeBran

Bethlehem, PA

19

INC.

A AC A MUSEUM , INC .

161 MUSEUM DRIVE, HERSHEY, PA 17033 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED The AACA Museum, Inc. has been and remains an independent 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, not affiliated with the Antique Automobile Club of America.

EV E NT S & E X H I B IT S Current Featured Exhibits n Survivors: Unrestored Cars, Trucks & Motorcycles Through April 23, 2022 n Packard Showroom presented

by Keystone Packards Through April 23, 2022 Upcoming Events

For events and exhibits info, visit our website: AACAmuseum.org

n Museum of Bus Transportation Spring Fling June 3-4, 2022 n Motorbike Day June 11, 2022 n Annual AACA Museum, Inc. Sizzling Summer Cruise In June 18, 2022

n Chocolate Covered February & Hershey Kiss Scavenger Hunt February 1-28, 2022

n Model T Driving Experience June 22, 2022

n Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt April 6, 2022

n Orphans: Vehicles from discontinued marques or brands Spring 2022

n National Mustang Day April 17, 2022 n Spring Summer Exhibit Opening May 21, 2022

New Exhibits Coming This Spring

n AMC Showroom presented by American Motors Car Club Spring 2022

All dates subject to change

New Featured Exhibits See page 8

‘22 Collection Calendar is now available

Connect with Us!

20

At the AACA Museum, Inc., we see social media as a way for us to help us fulfill our mission every day. Our online community is full of car, bus, motorcycle and truck enthusiasts, volunteers, and supporters. Connect and join our diverse group - across the U.S. and around the world!

Get the limited edition AACA Museum “Collection” calendar. 12 Months of unique vehicles, motoring events, and a FREE Museum ticket. Shop in store or online and receive it ASAP!