It seems that everything was coming alive during the early 20th century, from farmers’ markets (see our previous blog post) to the need to get out and travel, the US saw a surge in citizens
It seems that everything was coming alive during the early 20th century, from farmers’ markets (see our previous blog post) to the need to get out and travel, the US saw a surge in citizens wanting a reason to explore and discover new landscapes. With the turn of the century, and the flourishing automobile industry, manufacturers and dealers sought opportunities to showcase their vehicles. Proud of their accomplishments, and taking advantage of the newest technologies, engineers needed an avenue that would allow them to market directly to potential consumers.
History of Car Shows
This is where the idea of car shows came about. Organized exhibitions and expos all across the US automobile manufacturers began to unveil the newest models and showcase unique designs. In addition, this allowed companies to listen to what consumers wanted and gear their brands in that direction. One of the oldest car shows in the nation is the New York International Auto Show, which was first held in 1900, and has since been the go-to annual event that attracts enthusiasts and industry professionals. Held during the last week of March, what started as a humble neighborhood car show, now encompasses one million square feet of exhibition spaces and over 700 vehicles. This is probably why they need 10 days, how else would attendees be able to see everything, and go to all one hundred events? From guest speakers to a 80,000 square foot indoor test track, this is the Mecca of car shows, and one I’d love to attend in the near future!
I’m not necessarily a classic car enthusiast, I mean, I couldn’t even tell you what kind of car I’m looking at, but I do know I absolutely love the curves that only a 1954 Plymouth Belmont has, and others like it. Once, New York came out with their annual car show, the word spread that this was one of America’s favorite past times. Therefore, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and of course Detroit began hosting their own annual shows, which allowed them to cater to consumers specific needs, as well as reflect their unique automotive culture.
Of course, car shows come in all shapes and sizes, from my favorite, classic car shows, to muscle cars, hot rods, custom cars and antique automobiles. Many of these shows give attendees a rare chance to stand next to a one-of-a-kind piece of machinery that they normally would not have access to. For me, that one-of-a-kind is the AMC Eagle. A product of my genre, I fell in love with this specific model after my dad bought one and drove it for a couple years. I loved its retro vibe, and you can’t tell me the wood paneling on some of them is the hottest trend ever!
Move over for Moville, Iowa
So, you can imagine how pumped I was when I nearly walked right by a bright red 1985 AMC Eagle at the Moville, Iowa Car Show. Located in the center of town, the annual Moville Days Car Show is one of the must-see events during the annual Moville Days in late spring. From vintage trucks, to turn-of-the-century family wagons, this is a small, but community oriented annual event. In fact, Moville Days has been going strong for over 60 years, and many of the cars are owned by local residents.
This was my first car show of the season, but not my first time to Moville. In the past, I’ve come here for a beer at their Crankshaft Bar, the Woodbury County Fair, and now Moville Days. I liked the simplicity of this car show, and how this quiet small town comes to life with vacationers taking advantage of a beautiful spring and summer we have here.
Located on Main Street in the Business District, I plan on making it to more than just their car show next year, maybe their parade and even a street dance! Check out their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/events/949098693079030) for upcoming announcements, and stay in the know for next year’s Moville Days (https://www.facebook.com/movilledays/).
