By A small group of car enthusiasts driving nearly 100-year-old vehicles rolled into Marietta late Friday afternoon. Members of the Scioto Model A Club drove their Ford Model As to Marietta around 4 p.m. Friday and stopped at the Lafayette Hotel as part of a tour. The cars ranged in color from black to green to white and more, and passersby stopped to take pictures of the antique cars. “We were formed in 1959,” Scioto Model A Club member Steve Rohner said. The club is based out of Columbus and typically does one tour a month from May through October, according to Rohner.
The Ford Model A, produced from 1928 to 1931, holds a special place in automotive history. Unlike its predecessor, the Model T, the Model A was designed to be more stylish and user-friendly. It featured a lower, sleeker body, could reach speeds of 55-65 mph, and was the first vehicle at Ford to have a Tiplex shatterproof safety windshield and hydraulic shocks. The Model A also marked the debut of the blue oval logo, which has since become synonymous with the Ford brand.
Members of the Scioto Model A Club appreciate the Model A for its simplicity and reliability. Club President Jim Jones noted that the Model A is a vehicle you can repair and for which you can find parts. “It’s technology that I can understand,” Jones said. This accessibility makes the Model A a favorite among classic car enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on maintenance and restoration.
The club’s tour to Marietta included about 22 members, some of whom drove their modern cars because their Model As were not roadworthy yet. The drive from Lancaster, Ohio, through Perry, Morgan, and Washington counties was described as beautiful by the participants. The tour also included visits to local attractions such as the People’s Mortuary Museum and The Castle Historic House Museum, as well as a dinner cruise on the ship the Major/Riviera.
The Community and Camaraderie
The Scioto Model A Club is more than just a group of car enthusiasts; it is a community. Formed in 1959, the club has grown to include over 100 members who share a passion for the Ford Model A. The monthly tours from May through October provide opportunities for members to showcase their vehicles, share knowledge, and enjoy each other’s company. These events foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support among the members.
Steve Rohner, a long-time member, emphasized the importance of the club’s social aspect. “There’s camaraderie, and help with the car when you buy your own car,” he said. This sense of community is evident during the tours, where members assist each other with repairs and maintenance, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the experience.
The club’s visit to Marietta was particularly special because of the historic Lafayette Hotel, which provided a fitting backdrop for the vintage vehicles. The hotel, with its rich history and classic architecture, complemented the charm of the Model As, creating a picturesque scene that attracted many onlookers. The event not only celebrated the legacy of the Ford Model A but also highlighted the strong bonds within the club.
Preserving Automotive Heritage
The Scioto Model A Club’s dedication to preserving and showcasing the Ford Model A is a testament to their commitment to automotive heritage. By maintaining and restoring these nearly century-old vehicles, the club members ensure that future generations can appreciate the ingenuity and craftsmanship of early automotive design. Their efforts contribute to the broader preservation of automotive history, keeping the legacy of the Model A alive.
The club’s activities also serve an educational purpose, raising awareness about the historical significance of the Ford Model A. Through tours, exhibitions, and community events, the club members share their knowledge and passion with the public, inspiring others to take an interest in classic cars. This outreach helps to cultivate a new generation of enthusiasts who will continue the tradition of preserving and celebrating automotive history.
As the Scioto Model A Club continues its tours and activities, it remains a vibrant and active community dedicated to the Ford Model A. The club’s visit to Marietta is just one example of how these enthusiasts come together to share their love for classic cars, build lasting friendships, and contribute to the preservation of automotive heritage. Their passion and dedication ensure that the Ford Model A will continue to be admired and appreciated for years to come.