By Jackson Melin
A custom-painted Citroën 2CV. Photo by Jackson Melin.
Once a year, Tucson holds the “Tucson Classic Car Show.” The event, which took place Oct. 18, is hosted by the Rotary Club of Tucson Foundation.
I spoke with volunteer coordinator Davis White about the event:
Jackson Melin: When did the event kick off?
Davis White: We started the Tucson’s classic car show in 2007.
JM: Was there any problems getting attention for the event?
DW: We have over 600 volunteers that wanted to raise money and involve the community. We have numerous people that come in attendance and demonstrate commitment to our city and to make Tucson better.
JM: Is there a vetting/screening process for the chosen cars?
DW: The cars have to be pre-1999, unless they fit in a unique, modern category. Spec.
One of the many classic cars at the event. Photo by Jackson Melin.
JM: Is there registration for the cars?
DW: On our website next April you can submit your car with its class for $35.
JM: How many people are in attendance?
DW: 20,000.
JM: What’s the rarest car here?
DW: The rarest would be the 1933 Auburn Salon V12 Speedster.
JM: What’s one thing you hope people take away from this event?
DW: An appreciation for the history, innovation, design, creativity and engineering of America.
A 1933 Auburn, owned by Thomas Craig. Photo by Jackson Melin.
I spoke to the owner of the 1933 Auburn, Thomas Craig, about how he obtained the car.
“I’ve looked at these cars in museums my whole life, and when I turned 60 I decided it was time to own a classic car,” he said. He bought a 1931 8-cylinder Auburn, and three years later he purchased the ’33. “This auction came up and I got it within my budget, and it’s a real honor and privilege.”
Informational sign for the “rarest” car at the show. Photo by Jackson Melin.
The event raised $3 million, which was donated toward Pima/Jobpath/Amphi ECHO.
Photos by Jackson Melin.