HUMBOLDT — A mere three weeks after Harlan Coakwell finished the restoration of his 1930 Model A Ford, he was showing it off at a Humboldt car show that focuses on Ford vehicles.
The Warman resident purchased the vehicle in July 2017 in Vernon, B.C. He did much of the restoration himself, but did bring outside help for specialized tasks like interior work and upholstery.
“I always wanted a five-window coupe,” he said.
Coakwell was one of 45 showing their Fords, Mustangs, Mercurys and Lincolns at Hot Cars in the City, hosted in Discovery Ford’s parking lot on Aug. 10.
Wally Brecht, the organizer, started the show eight years ago. Brecht, who works as a salesperson at Discovery Ford, said the idea to put on an antique and special interest car show came when the dealership’s sales people were talking about organizing community events connected to something they had a passion for.
“I've always had a passion for antique cars. I know how much guys spend in blood, sweat and tears, fixing them and making them look brand new again. They've spent thousands of dollars on them, and then they park them in their shed or their garage,” he said.
“How do they show these vehicles to anybody? The car show is a great way.”
Brecht said the first year, he called up some friends and had 13 vehicles displayed. Each year since, it has grown bit by bit, with this year’s being the biggest yet. Exhibitors came from all over, including places like Humboldt, Fosston, Biggar, Warman, Saskatoon, Lanigian and Watrous.
Because of the show’s focus on Fords, Mustangs, Mercurys and Lincolns, the show isn’t as large as some of the other car shows in the area, which accepts all makes and models.
“I think that makes it a little more specialized to me, and unique,” Brecht said.
The show also had a barbeque, which was staffed this year by Arts Humboldt. The supplies were donated to the arts organization and they’ll keep the proceeds.
Brecht said residents should expect the show to return next year some time in August.
“It's just been a blast and I couldn't do it without the help of a lot of the people from the dealership. It's amazing how much help I got to put this on.”
