Were you one of the thousands of kids who built a Red Baron model car kit back in the '60s and '70s? Did you ever want to see the real thing up close and in person? This year's Americruise participants will get their chance to see that famous show rod - and many other one-of-a-kind vehicles - when Speedway Motors hosts its annual ice cream social open house on Saturday, June 30.
As in previous years when Rod & Custom's big show has come to Lincoln, "Speedy" Bill Smith is inviting all Americruise participants to cruise over to Speedway Motors headquarters after activities wind down at the Nebraska State Fairgrounds on Saturday afternoon. Their Americruise registration stickers will gain them access to a reserved parking area where there will be complimentary ice cream, water and popcorn, as well as delicious barbecue available for purchase. Participants can socialize, check out the cars, and bench race with "Speedy" Bill himself. That evening they'll also have an opportunity to tour the Museum of American Speed, which is always a highlight for visitors. This world-class collection is filled with countless vintage racing engines, speed parts, race cars, hot rods, pedal cars and memorabilia.
The museum is continually being updated and recently acquired the famous Red Baron show rod from Championship Auto Shows International. This wild, show-winning ride is sure to bring a smile to the face of car enthusiasts from all generations. Other recent museum additions include: the Goldbrick, a distinctive '33 Ford customized in Detroit in the late-'50s; a 1921 Model T Ford celebrated as the 5 millionth Model T ever built; and a recently discovered 1919 racer crafted by two Nebraska brothers. Also on display will be a 1920 Model T that "Speedy" Bill believes to be the oldest surviving hot rod anywhere. This hopped up T has all the rodding hallmarks - disc wheels, a modified suspension and a Rajo engine - but was built long before the term "hot rod" was ever coined. It's a true piece of history you need to see for yourself.
If you can't make it to Americruise in June, you'll be glad to know that the Museum of American Speed is open for daily tours Monday through Friday at 2 PM from May through September. From October through April there are weekly tours held on Fridays at 2 PM. Admission for all tours is $10, except at Americruise. The museum is also available for special club, group and company events. For more information, visit the museum web site at www.museumofamericanspeed.com.