The Southern California Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society was able to finally host their 35th annual antique truck show at the Southern California Railway Museum (formerly known as the Orange Empire Railway Museum) in Perris, CA on September 12, 2020. Originally scheduled for May 2nd, it was eventually postponed until September 12th due to the COVID-19 closures. Advertising and promotion continued, and the chapter was allowed to have one of the few events in Southern California that was open to the public.
While attendance was down from previous years, it was still well received by participants and the public. Everyone enjoyed the sunny day and the chance to get out and view the trucks and ride the trains. The rail museum is a great venue, offering a “small town like” atmosphere of streets and parking for the trucks, plus shady parks to set up chairs and enjoy the DJ’s music featuring “oldies” and old trucking songs. In the evening, a potluck BBQ was held for those that were able to take advantage of the limited camp sites available, including some of the workers and long-distance attendees.
The Best of Show Big Rig was a 1979 Peterbilt 359 driven over 200 miles from Yuma, AZ. Another long-distance attendee brought a 1954 Peterbilt 280 with two polished trailers and traveled nearly 300 miles from Fresno, CA. A beautiful 1957 Chevrolet Cameo pickup was the Best of Show Light Duty. The Oldest Truck was a 1919 Chevrolet. Award recipients loved the “signature” trophies made using an assortment of gears, pistons, and other parts. Along with the few already mentioned, there were 18 categories, include Best Display of Rust, Special Interest, Most Unusual, and many other fun classes.
The Southern California Chapter of ATHS is already making plans for the 36th annual antique truck show, which is scheduled for May 1, 2021. Visit their website (www.socalaths.com) for more information about the local chapter and past and future planned events. Here’s hoping this fun event will not need to be postponed again in 2021.
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