Carlisle’s All Chrysler Nationals
Written by Keith Fudge

On this edition of Hemming’s My Classic Car, we travel to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for the 10th Annual Carlisle All-Chrysler Nationals. Held from July 14th through the16th at the Carlisle Fairgrounds, this event featured a gathering of some of the finest examples of Mopar style and muscle. There were Classic Concept Cars, Drag Race Legends, and even a car give-away, and guess what? It was a Chrysler! Also of interest was the Mopar Survivor building and tents that housed some great examples of survivor cars.

Hemming’s My Classic Car host, Dennis Gage spoke with Chip Miller, Co-Owner of Carlisle Events, who was especially pleased with the turnout, particularly with the survivor cars that were on display. The number of survivor entries was more than expected and Chip told us that additional tents were added to house these vehicles. Later, Chip went on to explain that the classic cars in these tents were in there original state, and that if 50% or more in restoration work is performed on a vehicle then it is no longer considered a survivor. This information absolutely shows how rare these cars actually are!

Although it was a misty day, that didn’t keep these Mopar Maniacs from having a great time and sharing some of their rides with us! As Dennis noted, it was just like a look back into the “Psychedelic 60s” as we witnessed a vivid sea of color across the fairgrounds. With that said, Dennis jumped in with both feet, in search of some classic Mopars.

First, Dennis ran into Justin Wainwright and his 1970 Dodge Charger. Dressed in black, with 440 logos adorning the hood, we could see that this Charger was ready for some serious action. This classic was originally sported a Burnt Orange exterior, but Justin and his father restored the car themselves, and painted it a sleek black. Justin said that the inspiration to change the color came from a previous Hemming’s MCC episode in which Dennis closed the show by riding away in a beefed-up black Charger. Justin said that after he saw that episode that there was no doubt about the type of car that he wanted! One of the great aspects of this restoration is that this Charger is an everyday driver! Kudos to Justin and his dad for an excellent restoration!

Next, Dennis found Randy Donaldson and his awesome 1971 Duster. Randy restored this beauty to its original condition including the unusual “Wedge” package option that, according to Randy, was only available in 1971. And, with its flat black hood and cool graphics, this mean Mopar not “talks the talk,” but can also “walk the walk.” Powered by a 340 that pumps out 375 horses, this Duster can in fact leave em’ in the dust. The car also is a bit unusual in the fact that it was optioned as an automatic with air conditioning! No doubt that is the finishing touch that really makes this Mopar a “cool” ride! Congratulations, Randy and thanks for sharing your Duster with us.

The 10th Annual Carlisle All-Chrysler Nationals was a huge success and next year’s event promises to be even better. Next year’s show will be held from July 13-15, 2001. If you would like more information, contact them at 717-243-7855, or look them up at www.carsatcarlisle.com.