With spring here and summer soon upon us, now is the time to uncover that classic car, hot rod, or motorcycle and enjoy the weather cruising. The year was 1965 when the late John R. Syme had a vision and formed the Laurel Lions Club Auto Show and swap meet. With about 200 antique automobiles and vendors, the two-day weekend event was held on the grounds of Laurel Race Course. Through the years, the event moved to various locations within the city, including McCullough Field, Laurel Shopping Center, Laurel Lakes, and the Municipal Center at City Hall. Sadly, with very little attendance, monies, participants, and sponsor support, it came to an abrupt end around 2015. Today, in memory of those days, every Sunday morning at the Burtonsville Shopping Center (weather permitting) a gathering of cars and enthusiasts get together to hang out. Also, every year in mid-to-late August, Mike Templeton along with the American Legion Post 60 hold its annual show on Marr Field. This year they celebrate their 10th anniversary in doing so. Relive and support the glory days (non-electric) with Martha & I as we present some artifacts from either our attendance at these events or collecting over the years.
Pete Lewnes is a founding member of The Laurel History Boys, and a prolific collector of Laurel historical memorabilia from all eras.
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