An award-winning publication of the AACA Museum, Inc. Spring 2020
Every so often, something happens that reminds me how far I’ve traveled in my career and how much untapped potential exists at our Museum. Last fall, Judy Scotland graciously donated her family’s Stanley Wanlass “New York to Paris 1908” bronze sculpture. Wanlass, regarded as a modern-day Frederick Remington, made just 30 of these hand-signed sculptures depicting the Buffalo, NY-built, race-winning Thomas Flyer and its crew in action. The Race was the first of its kind and it intended to circumnav igate the globe to prove the reliability of the automobile. It was no small task in an era that preceded paved roads, standardized gasoline, and just about every basic service we now take for granted. My first museum job came in the late ’80s at the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society. There I came face to face with “The Flyer” bor rowed from the National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV, for an exhibition titled “Buffalo Made.” “The Flyer” arrived after hours. As a car guy, I volunteered to accept its delivery. Upon arrival, the “The Flyer” was trapped in front of a bright red Ferrari Testarossa with a dead bat tery. I assisted in starting and moving the iconic vehicle. Now decades later, I have the privilege of working at one of the best car museums in the Ournation.museum is growing. January 1st, the Mu seum of Bus Transportation, a partner since 2003, merged their organization into the Mu seum. They join the Tucker Automobile Club of America, that merged with us a year ago, to be come committee level organizations within the Museum. We are happy to have both groups as part of our Museum family. Buses and Tuckers are two subjects that help set us apart. With new vehicle donations, behind the scenes tours, ground-breaking changing exhibitions, and a full schedule of lawn shows and public programs, the AACA Museum offers something for everyone. Thank you for support! Sr.
2
• 1908 Albany Runabout David Kolzow, Sr. Earlville, IL • 1908 Economy Runabout David Kolzow,
Earlville, IL • 1910 Buick Roadster Lee & Lauren Rowe Wallingford, PA • 1913 International High Wheeler Judith Langenfelder Bel Air, MD • 1926 Buick Master Six Brougham Brenda Pierce Honey Brook, PA • 1932 Buick Model 50 Sedan Philip Neuberg Potomac, MD • 1951 Buick Roadmaster Riviera Sedan Brian Crispin West Monroe, NY • 1954 MG TF William H. Adler, MD & Rebecca Elon Severna Park, MD • 1965 MG MGB Jim Doran Bryn Mawr, PA • 1966 Lincoln Continental Sedan Doug Wentzel Leesport, PA • 1970 Dodge Super Bee Anita Haulman Lebanon, PA • 1970 Honda Motorcycle John E. Coleman Jermyn, PA • 1971 Benelli Buzzer Motorcycle John E. Coleman Jermyn, PA • 1985 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Jeffrey Gillis Finksburg, MD • 1988 Ford Crown Victoria LTD Sedan William Hazel Milton, MA • 1992 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Robert Ostrowski Lexington Park, MD • 2014 Homesteader Enclosed Trailer Joseph Sebert Bridgeport, WV • 2019 Continental Cargo Enclosed Trailer Winters Automotive & Trailers East Prospect, PA Vehicle Donations 2019: Thank you donors! Board of Directors Richard P. Sills, Esquire President Dale Yingst Vice President William S. Rothermel Secretary Alan L. Brechbill Treasurer Edmund Cammack Richie A. Clyne John HenryWilliamDockendorf“Bill”EdmundsW.“Hank”Hallowell, III John Hess Joel Hopkins Jon MarkKirssinLieberman Tucker Club Representative John Oakman Museum of Bus Transportation Representative Don “Rick” Risser Antonia W. “Toni”Rothman Andrew “Andy” Saft John R. Tucker, Jr. Chad L. Winters William “Bill” Cammack Cammack Position Alternate INC. Staff Jeffrey E. Bliemeister (ext. 102) Executive jbliemeister@aacamuseum.orgDirector Stanley Sipko (ext. 104) Museum ssipko@aacamuseum.orgCurator Dennis Beck (ext. 106) Director of Operations & dbeck@aacamuseum.orgFinance Nancy Gates (ext. 123) Director of Marketing & ngates@aacamuseum.orgCommunications Jake Dunnigan (ext. 116) Curator of Content and Public jdunnigan@aacamuseum.orgOutreach Dareck Caroway (ext. 117) Retail & Guest Services dcaroway@aacamuseum.orgManager Stacy Benson (ext. 101) Office sbenson@aacamuseum.orgManager Leslie Thompson (ext. 108) Maintenance lthompson@aacamuseum.orgSupervisor Andrea Beshara (ext. 105) Event abeshara@aacamuseum.orgCoordinator “New York to Paris 1908” A rare and valuable artist’s proof sculpture by Stanley Wanlass, donated by Judy Scotland in memory of her husband, Howard V. Scotland. A Message from JEFFREY E. BLIEMEISTER , EXECUTIIVE DIRECTOR
1951 Buick Roadmaster Riviera Sedan Buick’s description: “Its racy style lines are crowned with a solid steel top, styled on the interior with gleaming chrome bows. There are smart luxury touches throughout, even to hydraulic push-button controls for windows and front-scat adjustments. Definitely the car for the young in heart.”
Charitable Lead Trust allows the donor to transfer assets to the next generation and avoid both estate taxes and generationskipping taxes.
Chrysler introduced cars with High Impact Paint (HIP) colors in the summer of 1969. The names “Plum Crazy,” “Go Mango,” “TorRed,” “Sassy Grass Green,” and “In-Violet” distinguished the muscle cars of the time. Other car companies followed with their electric palettes. The colors of Mopar are on full display. Also, see AMC’s “Big Bad Orange” AMX. The “Age of Aquarius” valued individualism, and the cars declared their independence with distinct shapes and styles. The exhibit spotlights unique and rare examples, in cluding an AMC Gremlin with Levi’s interior and a Barracuda sporting a floral “mod top.”
Outright Bequest of Appreciated Stock, Property, Life Insur ance, or an IRA. The advantage of making a bequest of appre ciated property or securities to the Museum is the avoidance of capital gains and estate taxes. However, there are even greater advantages to gifting an IRA to the Museum. An IRA will be sub ject to both income taxes and estate taxes that can diminish its value by 65%.
For more information, call 717.566.7100
“Yeah, It’s Got a Hemi!” Coming Soon
During this difficult time planned giving strat egies benefit the Museum’s endowment while benefiting donors through immediate tax relief, long-term estate tax relief, and in some cases increased income:
3
Charitable Remainder Unitrust allows donors to transfer appreciated securities that provide no or low income and place these assets in a trust with the Museum named as beneficiary of the remainder amount. The trust may sell the assets with no capital gains incurred and invest the cash into a high-yielding fund. The donor receives an immediate charitable deduction as well as an increased annual income for life.
Providing for the Long-term, NOW!
Celebrating the ‘Age of Aquarius’ Through April, we’re celebrat ing a generation of automo tive creativity and color. Join us for a revival of the ’60s and ’70s with “Age of Aquarius.”
Life Tenancy Gift allows donors to keep lifetime use of homes, cottages or real estate property they do not want in their estate, receiving a significant income-tax deduction.
When the Museum reopens, proven power will be on display with the “Yeah, It’s Got a Hemi” exhibit. Many associate the word “Hemi” with Mopar/Chrysler vehicles. But, Hemi engines have been around since the beginning of automotive history. The term “Hemi” refers to an engine with a hemispherical combustion chamber, consisting of dome-shaped cylinders and piston tops. We can’t wait to share the “power” with you when we reopen.
The thought of “flower power” instantly brings to mind psy chedelic VW Buses and Bee tles. The exhibit presents the most notable VW of the era, the “Light Bus,” of Woodstock fame. Artist Dr. Bob Hieroni mus, who painted the original ’63 Volkswagen Microbus, rec reated his icon, which brings the spirit of Woodstock to the Museum. Plus, the “Waltzing Matilda” Beetle adds more early ’70s flair. The desire for bold and bright cars didn’t stop there.
In automotive terms, this is like driving an unfamiliar car. There is no owner’s manual, no shop manual, and no wiring diagram. No one else has experience with this car, or anything similar to it. You just have to do the best you can to figure things out. Here in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the latest shutdown order — now coupled with a “stayat-home” requirement — remains in effect through April 30. While we can’t do anything about the shutdown, there are things we and you can do to help the Museum get through this difficult time. We will keep you posted through our website (AACAmuseum.org), email, and social media. We will keep you informed about the timing of our reopening and our events.. You can help us by becoming a member (if you’re not already), or renewing your mem bership. Also, you can join in on our fund rainsing initiatives. Please see the list in the left column. We remain dedicated to being your “best in class” automotive museum. We have many outstanding events and exhibits planned, and can’t wait to open our doors once again to welcome you! Stay safe, take care, and please support the Museum during this extraordinary period.
Since on-site visits are not an option, we invite you to enjoy our “Virtual Visit” series taking you on a guided tour of the Museum. Discover vehicles, spaces, and stories that you may not even find on an in-person Museum tour.
Our first video offers an introduction to the Museum. Up next, we present a virtual tour of our Williams-Clyne Showroom Gallery led by Executive Director Jeffrey Bliemeister. The space is based on a 1950s-era automobile dealership showroom. Jeff shares how the Museum works with car clubs to display the history and heritage of their brand. The current display is presented by the Colonial Chapter, National DeSoto Club. We look forward to sharing our series of virtual tour experienc es each week. Relax and come along.
3 Ways you can help online:
Touring the Museum Join us for “Virtual Visits” our online virtual tour series. See the DeSoto on display in the Williams-Clyne Showroom Gallery, and enjoy new tours www.aacamuseum.org/virtual-tourregularly:
4
Helphttps://www.aacamuseum.org/join-support.throughdonating,long-termgiving,andsupportinitiativesSupporttheMuseumthroughourAdopt-a-CarProgramSponsorafutureMuseumeventorprogram
Ways to help!
Anytime, anywhere — even in the comfort of your home — you can access the tour series at: www.aacamuseum.org/ virtual-tour
Iam honored to serve as President of the AACA Museum, Inc. Board of Directors for 2020. The Museum is a very special place to me. I supported it back in the 1990s when it was just a concept on paper, and was present when the doors opened in June 2003. I had hoped to write about the great events we have planned for this year. Instead, like all of you, the Museum is learning to cope with an unprecedented situation. It is temporarily closed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and there’s no clear answer as to when it will be permitted to reopen.
Visiting Virtually: Come in, We’re Open
A Message from RICHARD P. SILLS, ESQ , BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT
INC.
5 THE AACA MUSEUM FAMILY: TUCKER AUTOMOBILE CLUB OF AMERICA VOLUME 49 • ISSUE 1 By Renee Elaine Manning All Things
6
Renee Elaine Manning grew up in the Boston area. For 36 years, she has been a Senior CAD illustrator on the PATRIOT Missile Project at Raytheon. Additionally, she portrays five historical cha racters including a space shuttle pilot and Galileo in schools throughout New England. Her hobbies are space, aviation, model rocketry, and building models.
I
When I was 28, I saw a movie with a charac ter’s mantra, “Hold that Tiger!” Jeff Bridges, as Preston Tucker, presented the story of the in novative, beautiful, sleek, and safety-conscious Tucker … “the car of tomorrow.” Wow! What a visionary. What a concept. What a car. I don’t take Hollywood movies for being 100% factual, but the premise and story were incredible.
There is a vast difference between liking something and being passionate about it. My love for this extraordinary and historic vehicle is what consumes the majority of my time. My days start with coffee in cups emblazoned with Tucker cars and emblems. I end my days sleep ing on a collection of Tucker emblazed pillows. My cubicle at work has become an automobile display case, as well as what one fellow employ ee calls “a Tucker shrine.”
A few years later, I visited the Smithsonian and saw #1039. The memories of the movie and the story became a reality. Displayed before my eyes was an actual work of art, a beautiful silver car. The Tucker 48 was everything Preston said it Forwas.years my brother-in-law, Peter, told me about an event near their house in Maine. The event, South Paris Founders Day, displays Seated behind the wheel: Manning sits in the driver’s seat of Tucker #1028 at The Maine Classic Car Museum.
have many hobbies and interests, as many of us do. They’re enough to keep me busy: I build and launch model rockets, sing with a group that raises funds for targeted cancer research, and am active in my church. That being said, my interest in the Tucker 48 has become an overwhelming, incredible passion. I know what it means to talk about all things Tucker.
I don’t worship this car, but I do adore it. Researching and studying the Tucker 48 from the Tin Goose to the present, becoming a Tucker Legacy member at the AACA Museum, Inc., and reading all I can on the TACA website has become a joyful passion. I don’t know why this car intrigues me; I am not an automobile person. I am a space and aviation fanatic who grew up watching and studying the space race to the moon. My dad was an avid aviation enthusiast, too. He built and displayed airplanes throughout our house. On one shelf, however, there were three beautiful models: a Duesenberg, a Packard, and a Cord. They were gorgeous. Dad said, “You can never over-appreciate the artistic quality, beauty, and craftsmanship of these cars.” My dad was my hero, and I believe he planted a love for these vehicles in me.
Founders Day was a beautiful blue sky, sunny day. I was not 59 that day, I was 12 at best and in car heaven. I briefly looked at the cars on the upper level, no Tucker. I ran down to the lower garage. Through the opening, I saw a maroon car; 4,200 pounds of virtual gold! Among these beautiful classic cars stood a vehicle in a class by itself, #1033. My adventures have taken me far and wide to see all things Tucker. I even sat behind the wheel of #1028 … a dream come true. I am hooked on Preston Tucker’s beautiful car and hope to see as many Tuckers as possible. I dream about riding in one someday. As I chart my course for Tucker-seeking adventures, my plans lead me to the home of the world’s most extensive Tucker collection at the AACA Museum’s Cammack Gallery. There the enduring legacy is on full display highlight ed by #1001, the first car off the prototype production line; #1022, utilizing the famous Tucker Y-1 transmission; #1026 often consid ered the most valuable production Tucker. I can’t wait!
Welcome new readers! This is our first Tucker Topics edition since the publication was incorporated into the AACA Museum magazine Reflections. It’s wonderful to be a part of this fantastic publication, and we will work diligently to provide you with interesting and informative content from the world of the Tucker Automobile Club of America. The Museum Staff and the TACA advisory committee have been discussing plans for future Tucker events. The primary focus is on the 75th-Anniversary Cele bration in 2023. A special gathering of Tucker cars, TACA members and Tucker fans will take place at the AACA Muse um for this milestone event. Dates and details will be published in Tucker Topics and online as the programs and plans are Ourfinalized.seriesof
I have a radio, I have a piece of luggage, a stock certificate, diecast Tuckers in all factory colors, posters and more. I even tell time looking at a Tucker emblem clock. I continue to reach out, to listen to stories, to collect, to study, and to visit given the opportunity. What respect I have for the fantastic Tucker 48 automobile. I expect the Tucker 48 to be a lifelong passion, and I can’t think of a more delightful way to spend my time. n
Tucker News and Highlights MARK LIEBERMAN , TUCKER CLUB OF AMERICA REPRESENTATIVE OWNER, TUCKER #1029 TACALEADERSHIPREPORT © 2019 Bonhams & Butterfields Auctioneers Corp. All rights reserved. Bond No. 57BSBGL0808 The Tupelo Automobile Museum Auction NO RESERVE: Auction includes more than 180 cars and automobilia items all without reserve. Tupelo, Mississippi | April 26-27 Consignments invited Greenwich Concours d’Elegance Auction Greenwich, Connecticut | June 2 Quail Lodge Auction Carmel, California | August 15-16 Featured in the period advertising piece Tucker The Man And The Car 1948 TUCKER 48 Design by Alex S. Tremulis NO RESERVE INQUIRIES +1 (415) 391 4000, West Coast +1 (212) 461 6514, East motors.us@bonhams.comCoast bonhams.com/motorcars I don’t worship this car, but I do adore it. Researching and studying the Tucker ’48 from the Tin Goose to the present, becom ing a Tucker Legacy member at the AACA Museum, Inc., and reading all I can on the website has become a joyful passion. Continued from page 6
7
Bob Bahre’s car collection one day a year to raise money for a local library. Last year while inviting me to the event, Peter talked about Mr. Bahre’s many Packards, Duesenbergs, a Cord … and a Tucker. A Tucker! That’s it, I’m there!
Tucker #1028 was sold at Bonhams Auction on April 27, 2019, in Tupelo MS. The Palomino Beige example brought $1,985,000. Tucker #1034 was sold at the Gooding and Company auction on January 18, 2020, in Scottsdale AZ. The waltz blue example brought $2,040,000. These are the most recent Tucker sales
Tucker Talks will continue when we reopen with two programs planned. The first one, “Keeping the Leg end Alive”, will provide a detailed insider’s view of the restoration and preservation of the Tucker automobile. I will present along with Mike and Sean Tucker this unique glimpse into keeping the Tucker ’48 alive. The second program, “Tucker Reimagined”, will be presented by Sean and Mike Tucker, Rob Ida and myself. This presentation will focus on the future of Tucker. Contemporary constructed, modern-day Tucker cars along with high tech system upgrades will be pre sented and discussed. Dates and times each of our past programs has been sold out.
8 Tucker #1026
DRIVING Reviving our previous two articles, we walked through the steps necessary to revive #1026, a wonderful piece of Tucker automobile history. The car was in a lengthy slumber and badly needed revitalization. In this final chapter of our story, our quest concludes with the ultimate steps taken and the results achieved to Revive and Drive Tucker #1026. The revive Since we correctly serviced and refreshed the fuel delivery, engine fluids, electrical, ignition, brakes, and suspension, we were ready to start the engine. The battery was a 6-volt gel type, configured in its original layout, long and narrow with top posts. With 750 cold-cranking amps, there was barely enough power to rotate the assembly at reasonable RPMs. A turn of the key powered the electric fuel pump, and we heard the fresh fuel make its way to the carburetor. The pressure at 3.5 lbs was all it took to feed the system properly. We gave the carburetor a couple of shots of carburetor cleaner to prime the system, set the choke, and pumped drive” Tucker #1026
Editor’s Note: This article is the second in a multi-part series documenting the endeavor to “revive and
& In
in time for participation in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Ele gance. Success: Part Three By Mark Lieberman
The oil circulated throughout the engine for the first time in decades and pressured right up to the proper level, 55psi. As the engine settled down, it sounded great. We let it run for about five minutes and shut it down to evaluate the systems, look for leaks, and check the condition of the fluids. Everything looked great. We lit it up again and allowed it to achieve operating temperature and then proceeded to set the timing and carburetor adjustments.
9
Mike Tucker, Adam Harder, Rob Ida, Mark Lieberman, Martyn Donaldson, Sean Tucker
the accelerator a few times. I hit the starter button and Vroom; the engine sprang to life!
#1026 was running great, and it sounded “happy.” While running, there was a notable whirring sound coming from the external torque converter. The unit is finned and displaces a lot of air while spinning. It sounded very cool. The additional weight of the torque converters also added to the spinning mass of the engine and helped it run smoothly.
A “shift” to the transmission Our focus shifted to the Tuckermatic transmission. It is a unique mechanism designed by an engineering team headed by Warren Rice. The goal was to simplify the operation of the automatic transmission and maximize its efficiency. The approach attempted to employ two torque converters, thereby eliminating the need to have multiple gear-ranges for shifting. One of the torque converters is mounted conventionally on a Diagram of the original Tuckermatic Transmission
#1026 on the Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours de’Elegance
The Tuckermatic came to life again! As I pressed the accelerator, the engine revved slightly, and #1026 sped up smoothly. The drive My first impression was to make a note of the lack of throttle responsiveness. The lack of responsiveness was particularly prevalent at speeds under 35 mph. Above 35, it had more pull and seemed to feel more like the other Tuckers. As I cruised down the road at 40 mph, the car felt quite capable, but still somewhat lacked the responsiveness of manual pre-select cars. The sound was also a bit different as I could hear the whirr of the torque converter. The car remained quite First test driveEngine, serviced and ready to run
10
“I placed the transmission selector in the neutral position and started the engine. It fired right up, and you could hear the audible whirring of the external torque converter.”
#1026 put to the test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. External torque converter Internal torque converter within the bell housing flex plate bolted to the crankshaft of the engine. This arrangement was typical for the majority of automatic transmission applications. The second torque converter mounted to a shaft on the opposite end of the transmission. It spins freely outside of the transmission and in the open air. The open-air and the fluids in the torque converter helped to keep it cool. The torque converter located on the crankshaft allows the engine to idle while the car is stationary and provides a smooth power transition from a stop. The external torque converter acts like a variable ratio belt, moving seamlessly by slipping at different rates. There are only 20 primary parts within the Tuckermatic. It was designed to utilize the transfer of fluid within the torque converters to maintain optimal torque to the wheels at any given speed. The design worked better in theory than it did on the road, but we’ll get into that in a Weminute.began our service on the unit by draining, evaluating, and measuring the fluids. We replaced what was needed and refilled the torque converters and the main body. We observed some minor leaks, but based on its time left dormant, leaks were expected. Once we refilled everything, it was time to test the systems. I placed the transmission selector in the neutral position and started the engine. It fired right up, and you could hear the audible whirring of the external torque converter. I then shut the engine off, slid the selector down into the drive position, turned the ignition on, and hit the starter button. The engine started, and the car pulled forward. I maintained pressure on the brake to keep from rolling forward. Next, I eased off the brake pedal. The car moved forward smoothly. YES!!!
It was an extraordinary privilege and honor to be able to revive and drive Tucker #1026. It exemplifies a milestone in automotive history and is a clear embodiment of the direction that Preston Tucker wanted to go with his “car of tomorrow.” While this version of the Tuckermatic was not ready for public consumption, it did show promise and progression in the technology the Tucker team pursued. Given more time and additional funding, who knows where this could have led us. But be sure of this, Tucker was not about to be constrained by the design, technology or beliefs of the day. He was looking ahead to the car of tomorrow.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the Cammack family for their tremendous contribution to preserving the legacy of Preston Tucker, his car, and his company history. It’s through their generosity and appreciation for the story that has made the Tucker collection, Cammack Gallery, Tucker Archives, and this article possible. n
Don’t Miss the Corvette Raffle! Win a 2021 Corvette or $40,000 cash Not actual vehicle. You could be the winner of a 2021 Corvette Stingray or other great prizes in our annual raffle. A maximum of 2000 tickets will be sold. Tickets, details, and rules are available online: support/raffles.www.aacamuseum.org/join-Thedrawing will take place on October 10, 2020, at 3:00 pm.
11 comfortable to drive and even has a bit more leg-room, as noted in a factory letter about modifications made to #1026. I noticed that the transmission selector arm is slightly in the way of the driver’s right leg when it’s in the drive position, but that isn’t very easy to notice during the excitement of driving this amazing car. When coming to a stop, the engine settled into its idle and still pulled a bit forward, so I maintained brake pressure. It’s a little more than what you experience on a modern car. Ascending a grade, the car labors at low speed, but does better over 40 mph. Descending a hill is no more than a smooth coast. When I looked to overtake another car, it quickly became apparent that there is no passing gear. However, the torque converter does allow for a bit of additional slip to find a higher rpm to pull. The next step was to try to reverse. After coming to a stop, the engine shuts off. The selector is moved upward into the reverse gate. With my foot on the brake, the engine restarted. As the engine started, the car immediately began to pull rearward and felt much as you would expect an automatic in reverse to feel. It’s easy to control and is rather predictable.
As I stated previously, in this version of the Tuckermatic, you must not have the engine running to transfer the power from forward to reverse or visa versa.
INC.
John Oakman
As you know, the MOBT has joined the AACA Museum, Inc. family. This became effective January 1, 2020. Already we’re working together to present the heritage of bus trans portation in the most engaging ways. The mission and function of MOBT are still fully alive within the AACA Museum. It’s a working committee of the Museum, and all of its previous duties remain with people working on fundraising, collections, exhibits, programs and the like. For example, Bus Musings will continue to be published as a part of the Museum’s newsletter, Reflections. Events such as the Spring Fling are also on the calendar for May 29-30, although this may change due to current events.
12 THE AACA MUSEUM FAMILY VOLUME 36 • ISSUE 1
Bus Musings
“We are thrilled to merge our organization into the AACA Museum, Inc. We’re proud of our long-standing association with the Museum. It has proven itself capable in so many different ways that we gain organization.”beingadditionalmuch-neededcapacitybypartoftheir
MOBT
JOHN OAKMAN , MUSEUM OF BUS TRANSPORTATION REPRESENTATIVE Driving Forward
MOBT members are now official members of the AACA Museum. We continue to work on ways to best match up MOBT and AACA Muse um membership levels and send appropriate renewals when current terms expires. Renew als during the current COVID-19 crisis would be greatly appreciated. Life Memberships purchased in the MOBT will transfer to the same Life Membership with the AACA Museum. The main goal of this merger was to continue the legacy of the MOBT by providing a perma nent home and financial stability within a larger context. The future of buses and bus history at the Museum will largely be determined by the interest shown by members such as yourself and hard work of the committee members who are charged with fundraising and other tasks vi tal to perpetuating these activities. So far we’ve seen enthusiasm for the merger among our members, officers and those in the industry whom we rely upon for support. Please keep connected with us by interacting with the MOBT and AACA Museum Facebook pages and by contacting us with your email address so you can receive our Keep Up to Speed communications about exhibits, pro grams and other happenings at the Museum. Together we look forward to getting past the current health crisis hurdles and building upon a great relationship. Thank you for being a part of this bright new future.
Ira Steinberg, a beloved Northeast operator and former partner at Coach Tours of Danbury, CT, was in the process of donating his 1964 MC5 coach to the Museum in Hershey when he passed away. His daughters, Alison and Lauren, followed through with the gift. As an entrepreneur, Ira spent many years as an airplane pilot, radio announcer, TV broadcaster, vending machine company owner, and bus operator. His biggest accomplishment was co-founding Coach Tours in 1984 from which he retired as President in 2018. Ira was a great supporter of the Museum and would drive a coach full of enthusiasts from New York to the annual Spring Fling. The arrival of Ira’s gang was a highlight of the event. We are ever-grateful to Ira and his family for the MC5 coach dona tion. Also, we truly appreciate his spirit, his enthusiasm for life and his embrace of living life to its fullest. A Tribute to Ira Steinberg
As part of the AACA Museum, Inc. family, our bus fleet is motoring forward with the addition of a 1964 MC5. Ira Steinberg and his family donated the iconic bus earlier this year.
The MC5 was Motor Coach Industries’ (MCI) initial entry into the US market, as part of the Greyhound fleet. By the late 60s MCI expanded sales to other bus companies. By the early 1980s MCI had earned 70% of the US market.
13
Our Fleet is Growing: New addition of 1964 MC5
“The dream came true (albeit 56 years late) when I drove a pristine 1964 MC5 from Patterson, NY to Hershey, PA.”
Ira, one of the founding partners of Coach Tours (Danbury, CT), bought the bus from Strong Bus in Easthampton, MA. When he acquired the bus it was in “terrific” condition, and Coach Tours made it even better. Surprisingly, the bus had never been restored. It was just very well maintained, a tribute both to the succession of owners and MCI who built one tough bus. Coach USA was instrumental is ensuring that the MC5 arrived at the Museum safe ly. Museum member and volunteer David Millhouser drove the bus from Patterson, NY to Hershey, PA. Michael Hepler, who works for Coach USA, and is also a Muse um volunteer followed in the Coach USA chase truck. Dave said, “My dream was to drive a ‘modern bus’, like the shiny new MCI MC5s Greyhound was introducing to the U.S. [in the 1960s]. The dream came true (albeit 56 years late) when I drove a pristine 1964 MC5 from Patterson, NY to Hershey, PA.” We truly appreciate Ira Steinberg along with his family for this generous donation, and to Coach USA for their support. Also a big thank you to museum member and volunteer David Millhouser for driving the bus here and for the photos.
Arriving safely Dave Millhouser and Michael Hepler expertly bring the MC5 to Hershey thanks to the generous support from Coach USA (photo: Dave Millhouser)
14
The Freedom Riders rode Greyhound 4104s and the Negro baseball leagues traveled by bus, as did the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League.
Has it occurred to you that the motor bus in dustry is a bit like Forrest? Since the 1914 WWI Battle of the Marne, when the French used 600 taxis to rush troops to the front and save Paris from a German onslaught, there have been few significant events in Western Civiliza tion that haven’t involved buses. This may be stretching a bit, but back then taxis and buses were sort of overlapping technolo gies, and they stuffed more than 8 soldiers in each vehicle. That ain’t a cab, it’s a minibus. When improving roads made it possible, buses became active in virtually every event that has impacted society. We moved troops during wartime. We contributed mightily to the Civil Rights Movement which had its symbolic beginning in a Montgomery, AL transit bus.
Adapted from a story by David Millhouser
Forrest Gump was one of my heroes in part because I respect folks smarter than me, and also because he appeared to experience and influence so much American history. What a guy… heroic when necessary, and while not an intellectual giant, he was courageous without swagger and wise without being glib… Gump seemed to meet every historic figure, and always had a positive effect on everyone around him. It was a crushing blow when I discovered he was a fictional character.
Name a significant sporting or entertainment event that doesn’t have a lot of folks arriving by bus. Imagine any city without a transit system. Many have “light rail”, but those jewels lack the ability to adapt to changing demographics. If folks move, trains can’t follow, but buses just take to the road. Most of us rode to school in a bus, many commute to work on buses, and pilots often get to their planes by bus. Good grief, if buses disappear we’d have no casinos.
When a hurricane is imminent do they bring in fleets of trains? Nah … buses. During 9/11 airplanes were grounded, but buses carried on.
Many who heard Martin Luther King Jr’s trans formative “Dream” speech got there by bus.
The Forrest Gump of Transportation
15 MUSEUM E V E N T S & E X H I B I T S n Night at the Museum October 7 n Autos & Ales 11th Anniversary November 6 n
The building and evolution of this industry provides a fascinating story of invention and entre preneurism–for it evolved from individual effort of thousands of people risking their time and capital in the hope of creating a profitable business. To promote the bus industry, and seek to be of continuous interest to both the general public and the bus enthusiast, the Museum of Bus Transportation (MBT) has partnered with the Antique Auto mobile Club of America Museum to have a permanent Museum of Bus Transportation Exhibit area within the AACA Museum. This permanent exhibit allows each organization to display all forms of motor vehicles and related memorabilia to better educate and entertain the hobbyist and general public.
Buses and their drivers really are the Forrest Gump of transportation. They’re everywhere. They’re occasionally slow on the uptake, but well-meaning, trustworthy, grounded, and in their own quiet way continuing the tradition of making a major contribution to society’s well-being, safety, and pleasure.
Yeah, It’s Got a Hemi! Coming soon n Minibike Mania Coming soon
Continuing the Purpose of MOBT
Current events have slowed the motorbus industry, but we have a great tradition of service in uncertain times. As we emerge from today’s crisis, we’ll go forward full-throttle to take people where they want to go … to work, to school, to events. And in troubled time, as in the past, buses will be there when needed to come to the rescue. n
In 1976, John Dockendorf led the Urban Transit Division of PennDot’s Bureau of Public Transportation. He decided to decorate his office with model buses. Over the years, his collection (1915-present) grew to over 5,000 toys and model buses. It includes cast iron, plastic, and die-cast buses from manufacturers such as Arcade, Kenton, Marx, Corgi, and Dinky.
John, a founding member of MOBT, donated his full collection to the AACA Museum, Inc. where he serves as a member the Board of Directors. A portion of the collection is always on display at the Museum. John works with the Museum to rotate the pieces on view. He is also committed to providing annual support to help store and maintain the collection. We truly appreciate John’s generosity and his commitment to this world-class collection.
John’s facorite A 1930 service.Pullman-typeattemptItPickwickvintageNiteCoach.wasthebusindustry’stoprovideasleeper
Donating an Enduring Collection INC. COMING EVENTS COMING EXHIBITS
Just like Forrest Gump, whenever anything is happening, buses are there, and usually make things better. Try to name another industry so deeply woven into the fabric of our society. Even folks who sneer at riding buses benefit from the bus contributions to reducing traffic and cleaner air. Too often buses are perceived as transporta tion’s lowest common denominator. In fact without buses, none of the other trans portation options would run smoothly. Without buses and dedicated drivers, roads would be more congested, air would be nastier, and many people wouldn’t get to work or school. Heck, even Elvis had a bus, and he loved it.
The motorbus industry occupies a vital place in the everyday life of the American public. Now, as part of the AACA Museum, Inc. we are positioned to continue our mission. In rural areas and in the thousands of towns and cities across the nation, it provides personal transportation for many purposes, carrying more persons daily than all other public modes of transportation put together.
16 AACA MUSEUM, INC. 161 MUSEUM DRIVE, HERSHEY, PA 17033 INC. Please support your Museum visit our AACAMuseum.orgwebsite: The Museum is Closed, but Our Online Store is OPEN! Shop Online: www.AACAmuseum.org/shop Our staff may not be on-hand to greet you, but we welcome you to the Museum’s online store. The store is fully stocked with hun dreds of vehicle-themed items of today and days gone by. We’re fully committed to serv ing you, so take a few moments and browse our shop. You’ll likely find a the perfect and memorable treasure.
The Light Bus at the Museum “Light” the Woodstock Bus is on display at the Museum, but the current closure prevents many from seeing it up close. You can still see the bus at the Museum, albiet virtually, Museum Marketing and Communications Director Nancy Gates documented the vehicle’s arrival. The Woodstock Bus was a main attraction of the “Age of Aquarius: Cars of the Counter Culture and Beyond” exhibit. See the “Light” bus video and a gallery of exhibit photos: www.AACAmuseum.org/exhibit/ age-of-aquarius.
