By John “Gunner” Gunnell
Believe it or not, 2021 marks the 90th anniversary of antique auto shows. That’s right! As early as 1931, when the Philadelphia Automobile Trade Association was getting ready to showcase the industry’s newest models, the trade group invited pioneer car restorers to drive their antique cars to the show under their own power.
Owners of old cars were asked to crank them up and steer them to what was billed as the First Antique Automobile Derby. This event was a hit and each year after that the number of cars participating grew. The annual derbies continued and led to the formation of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), which survives to this day.
Derby cars had to be 25 years or older. Drivers were required to drive at least 25 miles. When they left the starting line, a telegram announced each car’s send-off time. Time checks and traffic tests were the basis for derby prizes. There were trophies, prizes and cash awards, which were much appreciated with the Great Depression in full swing.
This year, Wisconsin car collectors will appreciate the opportunity to once again get out to shows and other events to display their prized, classic possessions. Here is information about some of the earliest car shows being held in the Badger State.
Jefferson Swap Meet & Car Show – PH: (608) 244-8416. April 23-25.
Jefferson is the kick-off event for old-car hobbyists in Wisconsin. It’s among the largest vintage car shows in the Midwest. The 44th annual will feature drag racers. It is held at The Jefferson County Fairgrounds, 503 N. Jackson St., Jefferson, WI.
American Antiques & Jewelers Car Show – PH: (920) 498-0111. Sat. May 1, 2021 10am – 2 pm.
Free admission and limited space for cars so register early. This will be a 4th annual event. It’s at 2545 W. Mason St. in Green Bay.
Hot Rod Hundred Cruise Sat. May 15, 2021
The Hot Rod Hundred is designed to bring back driving events. The 2021 Wisconsin Hot Rod Hundred will be a 100-mile-or-more drive through small towns on two lane roads and county highways. It will start at Fueled Customs in Lake Mills and travel to the final stop will be at Greg’s Speed Shop in Waupaca with a lunch and a few awards handed out.
Spring Cruise Car Show – PH: (715) 823-4606. Fri. May 21.
Clintonville is the birthplace of four-wheel-drive cars and trucks. It made major contributions to automotive history by being home to the Four Wheel Drive Auto Company (FWD) and Seagrave Fire Trucks. The annual car show fills both sides of the city’s main street from 5 pm to 9 pm on a Friday evening. Some years the world’s very first four0-wheel-drive car – nicknamed “The Battleship” – is displayed at the show.
35th Annual Automotion Classic Car Show, Wisconsin Dells – PH: (800) 223-3557 May 22-23
Yours truly was guest of honor at some of the early Automotion events in the Dells. Now, the excitement has moved from the resort city’s downtown area to the Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park. There will be music and food, a car corral, a swap meet and an awards presentation, too. The theme for 2021 is “For those who would like to go back to when cars were made out of cars.”
Early Mustangers 39th Annual All-Ford Show and Swap – PH: (414) 331-4966. Sun. May 23
This is an annual all-Ford show that takes place at Ewald’s Venus Ford, 2727 E. Layton Ave., Cudahy, WI. In addition to showcasing Fords from Model As to Mustangs, the swap meet offers classic Ford parts.
North Branch Rod & Gun Club Second Annual Show | Shine Car & Tractor Show PH: (715) 299-1527. Sun. May 30.
This is going to bring a lot of newcomers to Humbird, Wis. Unlike the previous listing, this one is for an event that’s open to all makes and models including antique autos, Asian cars, British vehicles, gassers, hot rods, European cars, modern and vintage muscle cars and rat rods. There will also be a tractor, truck and van show, as well as a 50/50 raffle, good food, dash plaques and door prizes.
American Legion Post 33 Memorial Day Car Show & Family Picnic PH: (920) 378-1346. Mon. May 31, 2021 9am – 3 pm
This spring car show is set to take place at the Lucky Dogz Labor Temple, 157 S Green Bay Road, Neenah, WI. For information click here to email a request.
The Automobile Gallery 4th Annual Cars & Guitars Car Show – PH: (920) 437-9024. Sat. June 19, 2021 9am – 2pm
The Automobile Gallery, 400 S. Adams St., Green Bay, WI. William “Red” Lewis, the founder of The Automobile Gallery, passed away early in 2021, but his spirit for showmanship will continue to guide plans for this year’s music & motoring masterpiece in Green Bay’s museum section. Participants should not miss the chance to see The Automobile Gallery Collection which tells the colorful story of the American autos from horseless carriages to muscle cars.