Vintage Wonders on Parade: Celebrating Sheridan's Automotive Heritage

The Vintage Car and Wagon Show held on Saturday, September 21st at Trail End in Sheridan, Wyoming, drew a crowd of over 300 enthusiasts, marking a significant milestone for the event. This year's show expanded its scope to include not only vintage automobiles but also a captivating display of wagons and sleighs, offering a unique glimpse into the region's transportation history.

Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future

Vintage Vehicles Take Center Stage

The Vintage Car and Wagon Show has long been a beloved tradition in Sheridan, but this year's event held a special significance. The addition of wagons and sleighs to the lineup provided attendees with a deeper appreciation for the evolution of transportation in the region. While cars began to grace the streets of Sheridan in the early 1900s, many rural residents continued to rely on wagons and sleighs well into the 20th century, a testament to the enduring resilience and practicality of these timeless modes of transport.One of the standout exhibits was a 1906 Russian Cutter, owned by Ed and Christa Grywusiewicz. This elegant sleigh, adorned with a few remaining Christmas lights, is a cherished family heirloom that the couple proudly showcases in local parades, including the Buffalo Christmas Parade. The presence of this historic sleigh, alongside the vintage automobiles, created a captivating juxtaposition, allowing visitors to witness the transition from horse-drawn to motorized transportation.

Honoring Automotive Excellence

The Vintage Car and Wagon Show also recognized the exceptional craftsmanship and restoration efforts of the participating vehicles. Sharie Shada, the site superintendent, announced the winners of various categories, as voted by the attendees.The award for Best Original went to a 1925 Ford Model T, owned by Coyote Dow. This well-preserved classic exemplified the timeless design and engineering that defined the early automotive era.The Best Restoration award was presented to a 1935 Chevy Deluxe, owned by Howard Christman. The meticulous attention to detail and the careful restoration process breathed new life into this vintage gem, showcasing the dedication of its owner.The coveted Best in Show title was awarded to a restored 1955 Chevy Bel Air Convertible, owned by Guy Fowler. Fowler, a local resident, took great pride in driving the car to the event, rather than transporting it on a trailer, as is often the case with such prized possessions.

Celebrating the Diversity of Vintage Vehicles

The Vintage Car and Wagon Show also featured a diverse array of other vintage vehicles, each with its own unique story. Catherine Fryberger of Sheridan proudly displayed one of the cars, adding to the rich tapestry of automotive history on display.The Favorite Wagon award was presented to a Canadian Roberts Vis-a-Vis, owned by Renny Barbula. This stunning horse-drawn carriage, with its distinctive facing seats, captivated the audience and highlighted the enduring appeal of these elegant modes of transportation.In total, the event showcased over a dozen vintage cars and around 10 wagons, buggies, and sleighs, all of which were required to have been manufactured within the years that the Kendrick family resided in the Kendrick Mansion, from 1913 to 1961. This criteria ensured that the vehicles on display were not only historically significant but also closely tied to the local community's heritage.The Vintage Car and Wagon Show in Sheridan has become a cherished annual event, where the community gathers to celebrate the region's rich automotive history and the passion of its dedicated enthusiasts. As the event continues to evolve, it promises to inspire future generations to preserve and appreciate the timeless beauty and engineering of these vintage marvels.