50th Corvette Anniversary
Written by Keith Fudge

Since 1953, the Corvette has been an American icon. Known as America 's true sports car, Corvettes have been immortalized in film and television by their beauty, by their power, and by the stars that drove them. The National Corvette Museum is located in Bowling Green , Kentucky , and it was at this great site that the 50 th anniversary of Corvette's beginning was celebrated. The party took place last June, and Dennis Gage and the crew from My Classic Car were fortunate enough to be on hand for the festivities of this great birthday bash!

Dennis spoke with Wendell Strode, the Executive Director for the National Corvette Museum . He told Dennis that there were more than 8,000 Corvettes participating in the event, and even one from Australia ! Well, I guess that decides the long distance award! Another great feature of the event was that there was a Corvette from each year of production on display—how cool is that? The weather was simply beautiful while the gang was there and it was only fitting that the sun would shine for the birthday of America 's true sports car! Dennis also spoke with Rick Baldick, Corvette's Marketing Director, who told him that it was fantastic to see all these cars driven to the museum. After all, Rick noted that, “Corvettes are made to be driven.” Speaking of driven, Dennis was driven to see some of these Vettes up close and personal, so with that in mind, and with every year to choose from, he made his way to the show area!

First, Dennis found what appeared to be the Holy Grail of Corvettes—a 1953, but after talking to owner Ken Kirtland, Dennis discovered that it was a stunning 1954. Ken explained one reason for the confusion in the identity. He told Dennis that he replaced the 1954 hubcaps with a set of 1953 Bel Air hubcaps—standard equipment on the '53. As they popped the hood, there rested the stock three-deuce, 235 cubic inch “Blue Flame” six-cylinder engine that first powered the Corvette into automotive history. Finally, Ken really gained Dennis's respect when he told Dennis that he drove his car from Ohio and that he drives it regularly. Way to go, Ken!

Needless to say, Ken wasn't the only person who drove to Bowling Green . For instance, Dennis ran onto Ron Eden and his gorgeous C5. Ron told Dennis that he took delivery of his car at the museum, and after receiving it he and his wife drove the car home to the Pacific Northwest ! That was a trip of more than 2,600 miles! This time he made the return visit leading a caravan of 29 Corvettes from the Pacific Northwest . Ron also told Dennis about the wonderful experience of taking delivery at the museum and that there is actually a program where Corvette buyers can arrange this experience through their dealers and the museum! Ron said he was also fortunate enough to receive a Corvette factory tour while he was there.

The 50 th Corvette Anniversary of the Corvette was one of the greatest birthday parties ever! There were parades, caravans, and plenty of fun. Hey, ZZ Top even showed up to play on one stop of the caravan. When it comes down to it, one thing can easily be said—Thanks Corvette! May you rock the automotive world for the next 50 years as well! If you would like more information on the 50 th anniversary, or if you would like to know more about the museum itself, give the National Corvette Museum a call at 800-53VETTE. You can also visit them on the web at www.corvettemuseum.com .

So, until our next road trip, remember, “Honor the timeless classics. Happy Motoring!”