Nearly 200 entrants in the 30th anniversary car show were treated to free admission, courtesy of Jeff and Gail Olson, long-time members of the Old Settlers’ Association.

“It was our way of celebrating the car show’s success over the years,” said Jeff Olson. “We really appreciate those who support our efforts year after year.” Olson added that the number of entries grows every year, filling the village’s park with all kinds of cars and trucks – from Model Ts to the latest muscle cars.

The shade from the many trees that populate the park helped keep some of the sun’s heat at bay, while the Bishop Hill and Galva Fire Department volunteers served grilled chops, hot dogs and cold drinks to the crowd.

Top prizes awarded this year were:

Best Paint sponsored by State Bank of Toulon – Doug Wagner, Amboy – 1966 Ford Thunderbird

Best Engine sponsored by BetterTwogether Photography – Tony Lading, Silvis – 1967 Chevy Camaro

Best Interior sponsored by Fernando’s Place – Thomas Gorski, Dahina – 2010 Cadillac Hearse

Best of Show sponsored by Bishop Hill Old Settlers’ & Breedlove’s – Tamara Houseman, Geneseo – 1956 Chevy Nomad

In the spotlight this year was Dorothy Ericson, winner of the 30th Anniversary Legacy Award for her part in keeping the family 1949 Studebaker Truck in running condition.

The truck belonged to her late husband Wayne’s father, Wylie Ericson. She made certain it was always running before it moved to the next generation. Her daughter Nancy and husband Terry now owns the vintage treasure, and they have brought it to the car show for each of the 30 years it’s been held.

“In addition to one of the longest-term members of the Old Settlers’, Dorothy is much like that truck,” said the club president, Joella Krause, “still running and in great shape at 90 years young.”

The furthest car driven to the show was a 1968 Volvo from Dripping Springs, Texas, owned by Scott Hardy. After taking part in the Bishop Hill show, Hardy continued his trek north with a send-off from his section of the park.

Kewaneean Dick Gibson brought his 1931 Model A to the show. Gibson explained that while he bought it in mint condition from an elderly man in Missouri, he spends at least five hours cleaning and polishing the vintage auto before showing it in public.

Jerry Bent, from Oneida, showed off his bright yellow 1959 Chevy Corvette Convertible, one of several cars in his collection.

The popular car show, held annually on the fourth Sunday in July, raised over $2,000, which will help the club replace the ailing air conditioning unit in the Colony School.

According to Krause, “our sponsors and volunteers are terrific, and we couldn’t do this without them.” She and the rest of the Old Settlers will soon begin planning for next year’s show. “We hope to keep it going for a long time – like these wonderful cars and trucks.”