HERSHEY, PENNSYLVANIA — On Friday Oct. 7, the Preble County Historical Society team traveled to Hershey, Pennsylvania to show off the Washington car at the National Antique Automobile Car Show which has been held in Hershey for over 50 years.
The Washington Motor Car Company manufactured the 1922 Washington in Eaton, Ohio. The car has remained in the county since. Only 30 Washingtons were produced, and this is the last remaining one of its kind. The Washington was released on Feb. 22, on President Washington’s Birthday, which is the reason for its name.
“There were more than 1,100 cars entered in this year’s show. This was our first time entering such a major show. We had very little expectations and did not want to get our hopes up,” said Lisa White, PCHS Executive Director.
During the show, Wayne Tuck, President of the AACA, presented White with a Centennial Club Award for the car’s 100-year history. Later that evening, the PCHS staff attended the reception and awards banquet.
The Preble County Historical Society won a 1st Place Junior Class Award for its first show. Some car owners spend years just trying to place, and PCHS’ Washington placed first in the class at its first show. The Washington has now advanced to the Senior Class Division if they choose to participate in the future.
PCHS issues a special thanks to previous car owners the Hildebolt family for trusting the PCHS to care for their family history. Thanks also to Harold Niehaus, PCHS President and Rick Swearingen for carefully transporting the car to the show.
The PCHS also thanks Todd White for the constant support in “making these things happen,” and to Eaton Rotary Club for sponsoring the tour this year.
Anyone who would like more information on the car’s history, can contact PCHS for a brochure at 937-787-4256.
