June 8, 2011

Classic car owners from across the Upper Peninsula are gearing up for the Michigan Iron Industry Museum's 22nd annual antique automobile exhibit from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 19, on the museum grounds in Negaunee Township.

Commemorating the historic link between Michigan's iron, steel and automotive industries, "Iron, Steel and the Automobile" will feature automobiles and light trucks dating from the early 20th century through 1969. All are in original condition, or restored to original condition.

"Featuring antique vehicles from more than six decades, this event has grown into a fun-filled afternoon for car buffs of all ages," said museum educator Barry James. "We had 12 vehicles at the first event in 1990, and now we regularly have 50 or more registered."

Museum admission is free, with a suggested parking donation of $3 per vehicle to attend the car show.

In addition to the classic cars, the event will feature live jazz music by the Keweenaw Bluffs band, popular music from the Swing era and golden oldies from the 1950s and 1960s. A food concession by Marquette's Teaching Family Homes, coupled with Willy Nilly's Good and Chilly frozen treats, will also be available.

Antique vehicles entered in the show include Dave Basal's 1915 Model-T, Bob Hansen's 1924 Model T, Ted Waldo's 1930 Model A Roadster, Jerry Gerou's 1941 Hudson Sedan, James Werner's 1942 Hudson Convertible, Joe and Nancy Hulverson's 1955 Super 88, and Raymond Pelissier's 1965 Ambassador 990. Other vehicles will include a WWII jeep, fire trucks and a 1958 King Midget.

The birth of America's auto industry dates back to 1896, when the Duryea brothers built and sold their first run of 13 motor wagons in Massachusetts. Michiganians such as R.E. Olds and Henry Ford improved upon the invention in the early 20th century, using steel manufactured from Upper Peninsula iron ore to put the world on wheels. Once a symbol of wealth, the automobile soon became a middle-class necessity.

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum is one of 11 nationally accredited museums administered by the Michigan Historical Center, an agency within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Located on US-41E, just west of junction M-35, it overlooks the site of the Carp River Forge, a pioneer industrial site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The recently expanded museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information about future events, call 906-475-7857 or visit www.michigan.gov/ironindustrymuseum.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.