Glidden Tour of retro cars passes through Exchange Club Fairgrounds to kick off Southwest Georgia Regional Fair

ALBANY, Ga. – To kick off the Exchange Club Fair, dozens of classic cars took to the streets as the Glidden Tour is giving fairgoers a glimpse into American history.

There was certainly no lack of variety in the cars on display…

As members of the Glidden Tour came through the gate, it’s a fascinating look at cars from the early 20th century.

“It’s very nice how many people really care and stop and ask questions about the history of the car. It’s real pleasant to find people that are really interested in automobiles and history…” said Gregory Long, Participant, Glidden Tour.

For some, they’re getting to show off cars that are over a century old and all of the hard work they might have put in to proper restoration to a southwest Georgia crowd.

“We enjoy showing off our cars and getting to drive them and celebrate the history of them. Restoring it, meeting others who enjoy cars as much as we do, and putting in those man hours to drive them on the road,” said Ariel Lowenthal, Participant, Glidden Tour.

“…Preserving history, they’re fun to drive, the art-deco…The modern cars, you just don’t see this type of automobile anymore,” said Scott Smith, Participant, Glidden Tour.

And, for some of the owners of these classic cars, it’s about more than showing the work put in, but making it something that younger generations can appreciate as well.

“These cars are more kind of rolling art. And especially for the youngsters. The youngsters come up and want to see it, and they get all excited. I make it a point to let them get in the car, sit in the car, hold the steering wheel, blow the horn. And hopefully create an interest…” said Keith Randall, Participant, Glidden Tour.

As the owners of these classic cars show off their hard work in restoring them, they come off as not only history but moving works of art as well.

There were more than 100 participants in the Glidden Tour’s event at the Exchange Club Fair.

Brian Roche reporting.

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