The Village of Minoa is gearing up for its annual gathering of orphan vehicles at Lewis Park this Saturday, August 17th. This event, now in its 10th year, celebrates vehicles produced by now-defunct manufacturing divisions, giving discontinued marques the recognition they deserve. Orphan cars, such as Pontiacs, Plymouths, Mercury-brand vehicles, and Saturns, are no longer in production, making them a rare sight on the roads today. The car show aims to showcase these unique vehicles and remind people of their place in automotive history.
Organized by Victor and Connie Oliver, the orphan car show is not just about displaying vintage vehicles but also about giving back to the community. The event will feature a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and food trucks, with proceeds benefiting Minoa’s volunteer fire department, Project Healing Waters, and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. This charitable aspect adds a meaningful touch to the gathering, making it more than just a car show.
This year’s event will shine a spotlight on Packards and Studebakers as the special-interest showcase, but all orphan cars are welcome to participate. Additionally, regular cars like Mustangs and Camaros are invited to join the opening cruise. With hopes of making this year’s show the biggest yet, Victor Oliver anticipates a turnout of over 200 cars, including some truly spectacular and expensive vehicles.
The orphan car show has come a long way since its humble beginnings on the Olivers‘ front yard in East Syracuse. As the event grew in popularity, it found a new home at Lewis Park in Minoa, where it has been held for several years. Victor expresses his gratitude to the Minoa community for embracing the show and working together to make it a success. The support from the local municipality has been instrumental in the event’s growth and continued success.
At this Saturday’s show, multiple awards will be given out to participants. To be eligible for judging, vehicles must be at least 25 years old, parked by 11 a.m., and classified as true orphan cars. However, exceptions are made for specialty vehicles with limited production runs. This inclusive approach ensures that a diverse range of vehicles can participate and be appreciated by attendees.
In conclusion, the orphan car show at Lewis Park in Minoa is a celebration of automotive history, community spirit, and charitable giving. By honoring discontinued marques and showcasing rare vehicles, the event brings together car enthusiasts and supports important causes. Whether you’re a fan of vintage cars or simply looking for a fun day out, this annual gathering promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend.