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CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2008 -- They say it was an adventurous, but finallyrewarded man who first discovered the true joy of a lobster. Getting to allthat delicious meat takes some work, but ultimately it's very muchworthwhile.
The Chicago Auto Show's 100th Showcase isn't dissimilar, with showgoerswho work their way to the north end of the North Building of the nation'spremier exposition center being rewarded with an astounding array ofrolling automotive history.
The Chicago Auto Show-and all American auto shows-were suspended duringthe World War II years, as the country had redeployed its manufacturingefforts into building tanks and trucks, rather than passenger cars. It wasChicago's show that first returned to the national scene in 1950.
"The first Chicago Auto Show in 1901 was trying to spread the word thatthe automobile was going to be the future of transportation," said ShowChairman Bob Loquercio. "They constructed a test track inside the (nowrazed) Chicago Coliseum so that potential customers could experience whatit was like to ride in a horseless carriage. The cars we have on displayare mostly static, but the exhibits reflect the spirit of that firstshow."
General Motors supplied three cars: -- 1902 Cadillac, the earliest known prototype of the brand and one of only three Caddys built in that year -- 1903 Oldsmobile, the famous "curved dash" model -- 1905 Buick, the earliest known Buick in any collection. The first collaborative efforts of William Durant and inventor David Buick. The Gilmore Car Museum has provided eight cars: -- 1900 Locomobile, a steam car, same as those pictured in the 1902 auto show stationary driving photos on www.ChicagoAutoShow.com -- 1903 Columbia Electric. President Teddy Roosevelt became the first American president to ride in an Automobile: a brand new 1903 Columbia Electric. Only three examples remain. -- 1903 Ford, the first year for the legendary manufacturer -- 1903 Stevens-Duryea -- 1904 Autocar -- 1905 Franklin, with air-cooled engine -- 1906 Waltham Buckboard -- 1909 Holsman, a Chicago-made vehicle. Other notable "Highwheelers" built in Chicago include International Harvester, Ideal, and the SearsIn addition to the "hardware" in the display, the Chicago AutomobileTrade Association's deep photographic archives were tapped to tug on thememories of those who remember-or weren't around-to see what it was like inthe old times.
Photography of celebrities appearing at the show include formerPresident Ronald Reagan in a 1954 Cadillac; Sammy Davis, Jr. in a 1959Amphicar; and "Hi-De-Ho" entertainer of the 20th century Cab Callowaybehind the wheel of a snappy Thunderbird. Additionally, colorfulenlargements of previous Chicago Auto Show program covers capture theindustry's mood and direction in the years they were published.
It's a don't-miss feature of the 100th Edition of the Chicago Auto Show,now running through Feb. 17 at McCormick Place. For further information andpurchasing tickets online please visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com
The Gilmore Car Museum is a public, 501(c)3 non-profit educationalinstitution, dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of theAmerican automobile.
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