Kiwanis learns about old cars

Antique cars are at least 75 years old, but classic cars are special because fewer of them were made. This is one of the things Kiwanis members learned from Harold Cox when he spoke at their recent meeting.

Cox became hooked on antique cars when, as a young man, he saw a 1929 Rolls Royce. He could not afford that one, but he borrowed $90 from his dad and bought an old Packard. He fixed it up until he sold it at a profit.

From that beginning, his interest in cars grew to the point he joined the Antique Automobile Club of America and attended their Judging School. Now he has been a judge at car shows for 52 years and has judged 120 national shows. He hopes to continue judging until he receives his 55 year pin.

Cox explained that antique cars must appear as they came off the original assembly line--same color and same parts. Each car begins with 400 points and deductions are made for various infractions.

The largest show is held in Hersey, Pennsylvania, where there may be as many as 1,500 cars. Any antique vehicle may be shown so Cox has been called upon to judge motorhomes, ambulances, and other kinds of conveyances.

Kiwanis meets each Wednesday at noon at Don Juans. Guests and prospective members are always welcome. Call (822) 822-5379 for information.