The Concours d'Elegance in South Bend is evolving into a two-day extravaganza, expanding its horizons beyond the traditional elegance of classic cars. This year, the event is not just about showcasing the pinnacle of automotive design; it's a celebration of the entire spectrum of automotive history, from the glamorous to the quirky. The addition of a Friday event, a lecture series, and a new twist called the Concours d'Lemons, transforms the event into a comprehensive exploration of the automobile's rich and diverse past. This expansion is a testament to the Studebaker National Museum's commitment to offering a unique and engaging experience for car enthusiasts and the general public alike.
The Concours d'Elegance, which has been a highlight of South Bend's cultural calendar since 2018, has traditionally been a showcase of the finest in automotive design. Past entrants have included iconic vehicles like the 1911 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost and the 1932 Chrysler Imperial CL Convertible Coupe. This year, the event is taking a broader approach, paying tribute to one of America's most celebrated automotive marques, Duesenberg, with a special 'It's a Duesy!' class featuring five exceptional Duesenberg automobiles.
However, the real innovation lies in the new Concours d'Lemons, a lighthearted celebration of automotive oddities and under-appreciated vehicles. This cheekily titled show is a nod to the French term 'concours d'elegance,' which means 'competition of elegance.' The Concours d'Lemons highlights the not-so-glamorous engineering of automotive history, with categories like 'Rust Belt American Junk' and 'Most Dangerous.' The inaugural event on Friday, July 10, will feature everything from a tribute 'Bluesmobile' to an early 1970s Volvo Station Wagon, offering a unique glimpse into the diverse world of automotive history.
The Studebaker Museum has been working tirelessly to expand the Concours d'Elegance into an unforgettable weekend for the South Bend area. The addition of the Concours d'Lemons and the lecture series 'Automotive History Live!' is a testament to the museum's commitment to offering a comprehensive and engaging experience. The 'Automotive History Live!' symposium, featuring nationally renowned automotive historians and authors like Tom Cotter, provides a deeper understanding of the automobile's role in South Bend's development and its cultural significance.
The expansion of the Concours d'Elegance into a two-day event is a strategic move to cater to a wider audience and offer a more diverse experience. The event now includes a lecture series, a lemon twist, and a broader range of vehicles, from classic Duesenbergs to quirky vintage cars. The addition of the Concours d'Lemons, in particular, is a refreshing change, offering a lighthearted and engaging perspective on automotive history.
In my opinion, the expansion of the Concours d'Elegance into a two-day event is a brilliant move. It not only caters to the traditional car enthusiasts but also attracts a broader audience interested in the quirky and the unusual. The addition of the Concours d'Lemons and the lecture series 'Automotive History Live!' transforms the event into a comprehensive celebration of the automobile's rich and diverse past. This expansion is a testament to the Studebaker National Museum's commitment to offering a unique and engaging experience for all.
