Maidstone Museum’s first Vintage Invitational Car Show gets traction with great turnout

by Sylene Argent, Local Journalism Initiative

The Maidstone Bicentennial Museum is always looking for ways to bring in new individuals by offering the opportunity to check out the historic displays and heritage garden onsite.

  On Sunday, its volunteers organized the 1st Annual Vintage Invitational Car Show, offering free admission to the event and – at the same time – tour of the museum which showcases the region’s rich history.

  Victoria Beaulieu, Curator of the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum, was pleased with the overall turnout, noting there were not only high calibre cars onsite, many attendees came out to see them during the five-hour event.

  In all, 35 eye-catching vehicles made between 1918-1982 were on display on the museum grounds as part of the event. They came to the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum to participate in the Invitational Car Show from throughout Essex County.

  While perusing the classic, antique, and custom vehicles onsite, attendees were able to vote on their favourite ride, with the car getting the most votes able to take home the People’s Choice Award.

  One of the unique cars onsite was a 1978 Whippet Model 96A, owned by Ron Deschaine. He said he bought the car in November of 2024, worked on it all winter, and is proud to display it at local events now. He found the car just three miles down the road in a barn, and he said he picked it up to give him something to do over the colder months.

  When the vehicle was brand new, it would have sold for $535, Deschaine noted.

  Another was a 1969 Chevrolet pick-up owned by Tina and Dan Mailloux. Dan bought the truck 14-years ago from his uncle, and they continue to enjoy having it in the family.

  Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt was also onsite with a classic. His display included a set of drive-in movie speakers, which sparked up some interest.

  “This is a new event for us,” Beaulieu said. “I thought it would be a nice event for people to enjoy, because there was no charge. If we do a few events people can come to and enjoy the museum, and a burger, it’ll be good.”

  With Sunday’s turnout, Beaulieu said this will be an annual event, and she is looking forward to hosting it again next year.

  “The main idea is to come and have fun,” she said.

  Looking ahead, the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum will have a busy next two-months, with many youths expected to participate in summer camp visits. Public events include the Open Garden Tour in July, and the annual Pollinator Day, which will likely be hosted in August.

  “It has been a pretty decent year,” she added. “We are happy with the turnout and connectivity.”