Kendra Cook
Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles
Every year since its founding in 1965, the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles in Pennsylvania's Americana Region has hosted Duryea Day, a car, truck, and motorcycle show that boasts over 600 display vehicles. This is the 52nd year for Duryea Day, which is held at Boyertown Community Park. Always on the Saturday of Labor Day Weekend, the date for 2017’s event is September 2 from 9am-4pm.
One of the highlights of Duryea Day is the presentation of the Museum Choice awards at the end of the event. Beginning at 3pm, winners in eight categories are announced—Antique Pre War Car, Antique Post War Car, Antique Motorcycle, Antique Pickup Truck, Antique Commercial Truck, Street Machine, Street Rod, and Sports Car. Last year’s winners were, respectively, a 1939 Lincoln Zephyr Convertible, a 1955 Buick Special 2 Door Coupe, a 1956 Harley Davidson FLH, a 1931 Ford Model A, a 1967 International R190, a 1964 Studebaker Challenger, a 1946 Ford Business Coupe, and a 1952 MG TD. It is interesting to note that not only were all these winners from Pennsylvania but four of them from right here in Berks County. Duryea Day also boasts a ninth, very special award—the Beatrice Landis Memorial Award for a car in original condition. That means the winning vehicle was never restored, better representing what it looked like coming off the factory floor and a testament to its owner’s tender loving care. Last year’s recipient was a 1956 pink (or, Desert Rose) and white Chrysler Windsor.
As these awards and winners from last year’s event demonstrate, Duryea Day is a varied car show with truly a little something for everyone. With over 600 vehicles in attendance, the show represents all eras and marques. In fact, Duryea Day is open to all years, makes, and models. This inclusiveness is one of the things that makes Duryea Day unique. And to round out your Duryea Day experience, this show also boasts a large flea market, several food vendors, live music, and kids’ activities.
Duryea Day is produced and held by the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles and the Pottstown Region AACA. Proceeds benefit both organizations. Duryea Day’s signature sponsor is BB&T. Other event sponsors are Fred Beans, Gabelsville Athletic Association, Morrell Funeral Home, Inc., Pioneer Pole Buildings, Inc., Quigley Chevrolet, and Village Gifts & More. Duryea Day trophy sponsors are Blast From the Past, Pollock Auto Restoration, Suburban Water Testing, Inc., and Wheels in Motion. Show vehicles can register day of show starting at 8am. Spectator admission for the show is $7 for adults, children 12 and under are free. Spectator parking is available at Boyertown Junior High West, 380 South Madison Street, Boyertown, PA and at Boyertown Elementary School, 641 East Second Street, Boyertown, PA. For more information on Duryea Day, call the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles at 610-367-2090.