3 minute read
Club Highlight
by Autourge
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Horseless Carriage Club Of Missouri, Inc.
Founded: Dec. 5, 1944 Website www.HCCMO.com
elcome to the “Club Highlight”. Each month we plan to share with you about a local car club/organization. This month we learn more about the Horseless Carriage Club of Missouri, Inc.
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What is the history/background of the club/org?
Founders and early members included several pioneer automobile makers (Dorris, Dyke, Borbein, and other notables). Early events in the late 1940s attracted thousands of spectators and enthusiasts. Tens of thousands come to events in current years. The organizer of the Easter Concours d’Elegance in Forest Park with the sponsorship of AAA; supportive of non-profit events and activities; oldest car club in St. Louis and much of the midwest. Associated since the late 1940s with the Horseless Carriage Club of America.
What automotive make(s)s is the club’s focus?
Any make 25 years old or older is welcomed at events, the older the better.
What need does the club/org fill in our area?
Voice of the old car hobby. The use of historic vehicle license plates in Missouri was spearheaded by the HCCM along with continual monitoring of laws relating directly or indirectly to old cars.
What sets your club/org apart from others like it?
Four different books on club history (still in print) are available with abundant details.
Is membership required to attend meeting/ events/other club activities?
Visitors are welcome and membership is encouraged to appreciate the full joy of participating.
How often do you meet?
Monthly meetings along with one or more other events per month during peak seasons.
What are the requirements to join?
Have a sincere interest; submit an application form with payment/check (www.hccmo.com), approval by board; need not own an old car; membership benefits for husband-wife and minor children included.
What are the top benefits of joining?
Appreciation of old-car enjoyment with peers; discovery of the past; technical information; friendships & a multitude of activities.
What would you tell potential members why they should consider your club/org?
HCCM is one of the very best organizations to enjoy as an entry into the hobby and for the support/expertise of members.
Does your club/org have a main event each year?
--Yes, several: Easter Concours d’Elegance, swap meet, quarterly shows and exhibits including the St. Louis Auto Show.
Do you support any non-profits, charities, etc. in our community?
Several: Locally And Beyond and Choices Made Quarterly.
Is there anything you would like to express to AutoUrge readers about your club/org?
The HCCM interfaces with most other car clubs in the greater St. Louis area and has the reputation of being a stalwart leader in the hobby on regional and national levels.
Is it ok for members to be part of other clubs?
Indeed, yes.
Quote from Club/org President or other representative of the club/org: If not the president, please include title.
“Hosting a special exhibit at the St. Louis Auto Show has been a vital part of the HCCM schedule annually for 26 years. Thousands of visitors have come into contact with knowledgeable members of the club in our effort to educate the public and foster a keen appreciation for auto history. This is clearly shown by the selection of members’ cars for the 2020 auto show, ranging from cars from the 1980s as represented by a legendary Delorean, and reaching back to 1903 for a rare Dyke runabout made in St. Louis. Dozens of members enjoy the experience of ‘car talk’ with visitors. It’s all done in a wholesome manner and with a spirit of invigoration.” --Dr. Gerald Perschbacher, HCCM display coordinator.
