Vintage Vehicles Shine at Prestigious Concours d'Elegance

The Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm in South Bend, Indiana, has once again captivated car enthusiasts with its stunning display of nearly 90 vintage vehicles. This annual event, now in its sixth year, has become a premier destination for collectors and admirers of automotive history, drawing exhibitors from across the country and even as far as New Delhi, India.

Celebrating the Timeless Allure of Vintage Automobiles

A Diverse Showcase of Automotive Legends

The Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm was a true feast for the senses, with a diverse array of vintage vehicles on display. From the stately presence of a Scottish lord's car to the iconic allure of a car once owned by President John F. Kennedy's father, the exhibition was a testament to the enduring legacy of these automotive marvels. The event also featured a rare reunion of five Studebaker race cars that competed in the Indianapolis 500 in 1932, a true highlight for car enthusiasts.

Honoring the Pioneers of Automotive Design

In addition to the stunning car displays, the Concours d'Elegance also celebrated the trailblazing achievements of women in the automotive industry. Visitors had the opportunity to attend a talk by Emeline King, Ford's first Black female transportation designer, who shared her inspiring story of breaking through glass ceilings. The event also featured screenings of documentaries spotlighting the remarkable careers of female racecar drivers Shirley Muldowney and Betty Skelton, further highlighting the contributions of women in the world of motorsports.

Rediscovering the Roots of Electric Vehicles

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Concours d'Elegance was the display of a 1911 Baker Electric Special Extension Coupe, a testament to the early days of electric vehicles. This forest green car, with its distinctive white tires, served as a reminder that the quest for sustainable transportation is not a new phenomenon. The car's owners, Bill and Linda Lillie, had to do extensive research to uncover the vehicle's history, ultimately tracing it back to its original owner, Mrs. Maeve Olds, who had been driving it around Tacoma for 25 years.

Celebrating the Artistry of Automotive Design

The Concours d'Elegance also showcased the remarkable design elements of vintage automobiles, with the 1956 Chrysler New Yorker owned by John and Lynne Cote being a prime example. This two-toned desert rose and white car, with its long tail fins and a record player called "Highway Hi-Fi," was a true design marvel of its era. The event's judges recognized the car's exceptional design, awarding it the Walter P. Chrysler Award for the Most Outstanding Chrysler.

A Triumph of Automotive Craftsmanship

The pinnacle of the Concours d'Elegance was the selection of the Best of Show Award, which went to a rare midnight blue 1932 Chrysler Imperial CL Convertible Coupe presented by Kent Marburger. This stunning vehicle was a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined the golden age of automotive design. The event's judges, which included experts from The Henry Ford Museum, automotive historians, and even a designer at Mattel, recognized the car's exceptional beauty and historical significance.The Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm has once again proven to be a must-attend event for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. From the rare reunion of Studebaker race cars to the celebration of pioneering women in the industry, this year's exhibition offered a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of automotive history. As visitors wandered the grounds, admiring the timeless elegance of these vintage vehicles, they were reminded of the enduring artistry and craftsmanship that have defined the automotive industry for generations.