The warm days of summer and crisp days of fall are quickly coming to an end. It's time to winterize your classic car until the warm rays of spring once again grace the highways and byways that are perfect for cruising.
Each year, as winter draws near, owners of classic, antique and vintage cars think about how they can best protect their prized possessions while they are stored until the following year. Even for new cars, taking them off the road and letting them sit for three months or longer allows the effects of oxygen, gravity, and trace corrosive residues in the fuel, coolant and lubricants to more rapidly rust, oxidize, corrode, pit, crack and weaken vital external and internal surfaces. Any measures that the owners of these vehicles take must remove corrosives from the cooling, fuel and lubricating systems and apply protective or rejuvenating products to areas likely to undergo rusting or oxidation.
1. As gasoline burns, some of the products of combustion combine to form highly corrosive sulfuric acid which condenses on internal engine surfaces and is a common cause of exhaust valve pitting. Draining the oil from the vehicle after it has warmed up and replacing it will effectively remove corrosives that have accumulated.
2. Fill the gas tank to decrease the amount of water that may condense in the gas tank.
3. Replace other fluids such as coolant, brake, and transmission fluids to replenish the anti-corrosive properties they offer.
4. Disconnect or remove the battery and store in a cool, dry place. Preserve the battery by connecting it to a trickle charger, which will prevent self-discharge.
5. Wash and then wax the car with high quality wax to add a fresh layer of protection against the elements. Thoroughly vacuum and shampoo the interior to remove any food crumbs and debris that might attract hungry rodents seeking a winter snack. Allow the interior to dry thoroughly before storing the car with all windows closed tightly. Convertibles should be stored with the roof up to prevent permanent creases in the fabric.
6. Apply a water resistant tire protectant to tires and use an interior wax inside to reduce drying and cracking of surfaces. If you have the available space, mount the vehicle on jack stands to preserve shocks and tires. Unfasten the brake and over inflate the tires slightly, as they will lose pressure in cold conditions.
7. Cover the car with a breathable car cover to allow dry air to circulate and help to prevent mold.
8. If possible, store the car in a completely dry, enclosed, lockable garage and remove any valuable items. Many classic cars are driven infrequently and qualify for a reduced insurance rate, especially if they are stored securely over periods of time.
9. Dampness and mold can raid your classic car from the ground up through a damp garage floor. To prevent moisture from accumulating on the undercarriage, and you can't raise it on jack stands, lay down tar paper or a plastic drop sheet and park on top of it.
The best way to prepare and maintain your vintage car in winter is to take it to a facility which is in the business of storing cars. They can perform a maintenance process which far surpasses what you might do at home. Be sure they are bonded and insured to cover any loss or damage to the vehicle.
Whether you decide to do it yourself, or have someone do it for you, winterizing your classic car will add years of enjoyment to the time you spend on the road. By taking an afternoon to protect your classic against the elements, you can look forward to no surprises and a well running machine in the spring.
The weather is changing to cooler temperatures, but that doesn't mean you are limited for fun things to do on a road trip. Why not check out some Murdo Attractions? Murdo is a small friendly town. People usually just pass through Murdo when traveling, but there are things in Murdo that may interest you this time of the year. Pioneer Auto Show is a definite stop that you won't want to miss in Murdo. The Pioneer Auto Show is an attraction that is sure to be fun for everyone in the family. At the world famous Pioneer Show we have an exhibit of over 250 classic cars that range from trucks and motorcycles. We have three popular classic cars that are on display right now which include 1903 Ford Model A, 1907 Middleby, and a 1904 Holsman Model K.
Classic cars are not the only thing that you will experience at the Pioneer Auto show though. At Pioneer Auto Show we also offer a treasure hunt for the kids. At each stop you will need to search for a sticker that matches the picture on the map. If you can find all the stickers that complete the map then you can pick up a prize at the front entrance.
Pioneer Auto Show is just one of the many attractions to see when you stop in Murdo. There are many other places to stop and it will be fun for the whole family. A few things that may interest you here in Murdo are:
South Dakota's Original 1880 town- When walking around the 1880 town you will feel like you are in a different world. The 1880 town has more than 30 buildings authentically furnished with thousands of relic. You will have a "life on the prairie," experience. Some of the memorabilia at the 1880 town was used in films such as "Dances with Wolves." The 1880 town is located 22 miles west of Murdo off of interstate 90 exit 170. It is a bit of a drive, but worth it what all it has to offer.
Tennis and Basketball- For outdoor entertainment there are tennis and basketball courts. Why not make a stop and play a game with your family? The courts were just renovated to provide better atmosphere for everyone. You can even make a stop in the dark because the court is lit up.
North Dam- This recreation area is a perfect stop for some fishing. Why not relax in Murdo and enjoy some fishing? The natural dam has several boat ramps for water skiing, fishing and boating. You can enjoy activities here year round.
Murdo is a wonderful stop for family adventure. At Pioneer Auto Show we want to make everyone feel welcome. You can also bring in your pets. They shouldn't have to miss out on the fun. At Pioneer Auto Show we also have a rock collection, an antique gas station called the "WNAX Gasahol," and a wonderful diner. Our restaurant is a 1950 theme with a small-town atmosphere. This all-American classic diner has a tradition of serving good burgers, thick shakes, sub sandwiches, daily specials and a selection of other popular menu items. For further information visit http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/index.php or call us at (605) 669-2691. We are here to make your family trip memorable.
There is a certain allure to going to auctions and antique shows. You never know what one person may consider trash, and what another may consider to be treasure. If you are new to antiquing or just curious to see what a show or auction has to offer, there are some antique show tips to keep in mind to help you make the most out of any antique show you attend.
There is usually an endless bounty of ‘stuff.' How do you know where to begin? First, map the floor by taking a quick overview of everything. If you are seeking something in particular, this will give you insight as to where that item is located. If you are just browsing, this will give you an idea of what is being offered, and give you an opportunity to see if something catches your eye. Plan for All Day. Arrive early if you are looking for a good selection; stay late for the best deals. Dealers don't want to pack up as much as they came with, so do not be afraid to jump in and make an offer at the end of the day—this is the best time to haggle and potentially get the best price. There Could be More than One. When you go through the entire venue, be on the look-out for items that are the same. Dealers are often unaware if another vendor has the same product, and they may have the exact item or a similar one for a much better price. When attending antique shows, it is definitely in your best interest to shop around at the beginning.
Ask Questions. Investigate and be curious to what vendors are selling. Some pieces may have cool history behind them (some of the exhibitors do, too), or exhibitors may have additional merchandise of interest to you in other locations or shows. The more knowledge exhibitors have about their products, the more you will be able to evaluate if you would like to make a purchase. Be wary of vendors who give ambiguous answers, and don't have specific information. Not to say that should prevent a purchase of something that you are interested in, but you should proceed with caution. If you have mobile internet access, a little bit of research on the fly is never a bad idea.
Be Comfortable and Prepared. Check the weather forecast if you are planning to attend an outdoor show. Most shows will be held rain or shine due to the complexity of orchestrating the event. Dress appropriately for the weather on that day, including comfortable shoes. You will most likely be on your feet the majority of the time. Research the payment methods accepted at the show. Many do not accept credit card payments, so having enough cash in hand is important.
Antiquing can be a fun and exhilarating experience. Even if you are looking for a particular item, you never know what hidden treasures you may find. Keep an open mind as you shop and don't underestimate an item if it needs a little bit of polish or paint to be an addition to your home or antique collection.
Roads trips can be kind of a struggle. Restless kids becoming stir-crazy in the backseat can sometimes cause for a road trip nightmare. To make the time on the road to Pioneer Auto Show a little bit more enjoyable, make a few road trip stops in the Black Hills that will sure be worth your time.
You already know that the Pioneer Auto Show & Museum is great place for family fun, but the fun doesn't stop there. There are many great places to take a road trip stop on your way to the Pioneer Auto Show that will make the most out of your trip. Make sure to check out all of the great attractions that the hills have to offer, when planning your trip.
Here are a few pit stops in the Black Hills you can make on your route to visit the Pioneer Auto Show & Museum!
Wall Drug: If you haven't heard of Wall Drug then it's time for you to be drug out from underneath the rock you've been hiding under. Wall Drug is one of America's Favorite Roadside Attractions! Known for their free ice water and 5 cent coffee, this place offers hours of fun and excitement for the whole family. This free attraction includes an animated T-Rex, panning and mining stations, Train Station Water Show, and great picture taking opportunities. It's a great place to stop to get refreshed for your travels ahead.
Miles away from Pioneer Auto Show: 82.5 miles
Badlands: The Badlands are one of the most beautiful landscapes across America. You will be able to see, first-hand, the colors that have formed over time to create this naturally beautiful landscape. This landmark is actually the largest expansion of protected prairies in the National Park System! The park has 244,000 acres known as the Badlands Wilderness. Within those 244,000 acres, 64,000 of those are National Wilderness where you can witness bighorn sheep, coyotes, black-footed ferret, swift fox, bison, and mule deer. Annually, one million people visit the Badlands from all over the world! Come experience what draws in so many people each year to view this national landmark.
Miles away from Pioneer Auto Show: 101 miles
Mammoth Site: Located in Hot Springs, SD, you can travel back into prehistoric times and visit an actual mammoth site. The Mammoth Site is known for being the World's Largest Concentration of Mammoths! Spend your day looking at the Mammoth Site's museum, exhibit hall, and bone bed tours showing over 60 mammoths and 85 other animals, plants and insects. Visitors get to experience a one of a kind paleontological site with fossils from where they actually died and were later discovered. This is a fun and educational opportunity for the entire family!
Miles from Pioneer Auto Show: 189 miles
Rushmore Tramway & President's Alpine Slide: While making pit stops in the Black Hills, make sure to stop by Rushmore Tramway & President's Alpine Slide in Keystone, SD. This attraction has so much fun to offer! Start your day off by experiencing the aerial adventure park next to the tramway. This park has over 60 airborne obstacles you can challenge yourself to. You also can try the big zipline through the hills that's 800ft. off the ground! Make sure to travel up the tramway and enjoy some delicious food at the Summit Grille where you can get an excellent view of the historic Mount Rushmore Monument. End your adventurous day by sliding down every twist and turn on the alpine slide. Take a pit stop at the Rushmore Tramway & President's Alpine Slide and it will definitely be a day well spent.
Miles from Pioneer Auto Show: 156 miles
Rushmore Adventure Cave: There is tons of fun and adventure to be had at the Rushmore Adventure Cave. Stop here and try the Soaring Eagle Zipline Ride, shoot bandits at the Gunslinger 7-D Interactive Ride, and experience stalactite-filled caverns at the Cave Tour. Try your luck at the Xpedition Adventure Tour, or spelunking as it's known to be called. This tour is not for the claustrophobic or the faint of heart. This is the ultimate tour for exploring this cave of many wonders. Rushmore Adventure Cave has a lot of fun for the whole family. Discover your adventurous side and try all the fun at Rushmore Adventure Cave.
Miles from Pioneer Auto Show: 157 miles
Bear Country, USA: Get a closer look at the wonderful wildlife at this pit stop in the Black Hills. Bear Country, USA is a fantastic way to see animals that usually don't come across in your everyday life. Visitors take a leisurely three-mile drive through several enclosures and encounter black bear, elk, reindeer, deer, cougars, bobcats, rocky mountain goats, bighorn sheep, dall sheep and buffalo. You can even get up close and personal with bears peering into your car door window! This is one pit stop in the Black Hills that you want to make for a bear-y good time!
Miles from Pioneer Auto Show: 144 miles
Reptile Gardens: This attraction has been reviewed as, "Fun Place for the Family", "A Must See", "One of the Most Fun Things We've Done in The Hills!" Go see for yourself and visit Reptile Gardens! This famous attraction is home to more than 225 species and subspecies of reptiles and Birds. Reptile Gardens also houses more reptiles than any other zoo in the world! While at Reptile Gardens, make sure to catch the Gator, Bird, or Snake Shows. From the shows, to the exhibits; from the food to the animals, you will not be disappointed. This place is jammed packed with fun activities that make this place exciting for anyone, at any age.
Miles from Pioneer Auto Show: 142 miles
Flintstone Bedrock City: This old cartoon classic comes to life in Custer, SD! The kids will be entertained for hours by visiting this theme park and camping resort. Take a pit stop here so you can ride the Flintmobile and the Iron Horse Train, play on playground's Slideasaurus, and enjoy the Flintstone Trio Show in the theater. Be a kid again and enjoy all the fun that is to be had at Flintstone Bedrock City!
Miles away from Pioneer Auto Show: 177 miles
1880 Town: South Dakota's Original 1880 TOWN has more than 30 buildings from the 1880 to 1920 era, authentically furnished with thousands of relics, historical accounts and photographs, a Casey Tibbs exhibit, Dances with Wolves movie props, and fun activities for kids.
Car enthusiasts and antique lovers alike will flock to Pioneer Auto Show's Murdo in May event this spring. The upcoming auction is setting the stage for its 22nd year. This year's event kicks off Friday, May 10 and continues through Sunday, May 12. The weekend's activities center around a classic car auction, car show, swap meet and antique and collectible auction.
Friday, May 10th will kick off this year's event with a swap meet in the Pioneer Auto Show west lot. Admission is free and this will continue through Sunday afternoon. At 3:00 pm on Main Street will be the car show, showcasing classic cars from a variety of eras. This will run until 10:00 pm that evening and will include free admission, fun, food, music, trophies and more! For more information on the car show, call Barb at 605.669.2263.
"This is an exciting weekend for thousands of collectors, buyers and hobbyists who travel to South Dakota each year from all across the country," said David Geisler, owner of Pioneer Auto Show classic car museum. "The events are always fun and family-oriented."
Saturday, May 11th at 10:00 am the car auction, featuring classic cars, pickups and tractors will take place in the west lot of Pioneer Auto, under the big top. Registration is $100 and begins on Friday, May 10 at 9:00 am Central time with the show taking place on Saturday. As an added feature, this year's auction will offer online bidding for those who cannot be in Murdo during the auction. For more information or to place online bids, visit: http://vanderbrinkauctions.com/auctions_details.php?detail=132&allimages=NO.
The mega-variety collector's auction is at 11 a.m. Sunday at the Murdo Auditorium. Collectibles ranging from antique Coca-Cola machines to juke boxes to lunch boxes to figurines will be on display — as well as some vintage cars. For details on the auction, call Eckert Auctions at 605.843.2845 or Bill Eckert at 605.685.8715.
For more information about Pioneer Auto Show and this year's Murdo in May event, check for updates at http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/auction.php.
With the promise of another sizzling August on the northern Plains, motorcycle enthusiasts from across the nation will travel through South Dakota intent on destinations like Yellowstone and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Lying astride the Interstate 90 corridor midway between Sioux Falls and Rapid City is the town of Murdo. Here bikers will find the world famous Pioneer Auto Show known for its extensive display of classic cars. In addition, Pioneer Auto is also host to a fine collection of antique motorcycles.
"Motorcycles have always brought people together who otherwise may not relate," said Dave Geisler, owner and operator of this I-90 attraction. "Those seeking a break from the miles and interested in the history and preservation of classic motorcycles will be attracted to our extensive motorcycle exhibit."
This classic motorcycle collection appeals to anyone from the two-wheel wind set, starting with a 1914 Indian twin cylinder continuing to a 1936 Harley Davidson and to a 1986 three-wheeled motorized bike.
The motorcycle collection at this South Dakota attraction includes Elvis Presley's personal Harley Davidson. With Elvis' name still on the title and only 1200 miles, the cycle is a popular feature in the classic motorcycle showroom.
Additionally, a 1943 Indian Papoose, and a 1947 and 1948 Whizzer, always draws a crowd. A Cushman Eagle, a 1964 Honda Dream and a 1965 Honda Dream 305 are also in the antique motorcycle display at this family attraction.
"This time of year, with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the bulk of our visitors share two qualities: a desire for a short break from the wind and an admiration for classic motorcycles," said Dave. "We hope we appeal to both interests."
Pioneer Auto in Murdo, South Dakota is renowned for its amazing collection of vintage cars and memorabilia. There is another sort of collection also located at the museum — the National Rockhound Hall of Fame and Lapidary. This fossil, gem, and rock collection includes many rare and unique finds of mineralology.
The National Rockhound and Lapidary Hall of Fame was founded in 1987 by June Culp Zeitner to recognize excellence in the earth sciences by inducting one or more persons each year in six categories: Minerals, Fossils, Metal Craft, Lapidary, Education and Tribute (Deceased). At this time there are inductees representing 44 states. All of the inductees are experts in their fields. Many of them have published several books and most of them have been active in community service.
"This is a dream for anyone who is interested in rock collecting or geology," said Dave Geisler Sr., owner of Pioneer Auto. "We are honored to have this one of a kind collection here at Pioneer Auto."
Included on display are agates, copper minerals, petrified wood, and even a sloth claw fossil — the largest sloth claw ever found. It is quite a bit more than ‘just a rock collection.'
Why in Murdo, South Dakota? June Culp Zeitner, a longtime South Dakota resident, was a world renowned mineralologist and a great contributor to the study of minerals and fossils. She has written 12 books and over 1,000 articles on cutting and polishing stones, natural history and different rock collection methods. Zeitner was the founder of the State Stone Program, which enabled each state to select an official stone, mineral and fossil.
"June Zeitner was passionate about sharing her knowledge of rocks, gems and fossils," says Geisler Sr. "Her father-in-law never walked by a product of the earth without taking a closer look — and June followed right in his footsteps."
Dubbed "The First Lady of Gems" at the White House Rose Garden - during a ceremony to honor and thank June Culp Zeitner and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies, Zeitner was a celebrity in her own right. During her lifetime she and her husband, Albert, amassed a significant amount of rocks, gems and fossils. Her writings on these finds would go on to earn her the award of the 2006 Carnegie Museum of Natural History's Mineralogical Award, which celebrates significant contributions to the science of mineralogy.
To learn more about this unique display at Pioneer Auto in Murdo, or for additional information about other exhibits, visit http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/rock-collection.php or call 605-669-2691.
As many summer tourists travel on interstate 90 across South Dakota, they will find themselves with the opportunity to visit one of the most unique auto museums within hundreds of miles — Pioneer Auto Show.
What started as a Phillips 66 gas station in 1954 by Dick Geisler, has evolved into more than a 42 building car enthusiast attraction. Geisler used to park vintage cars at the gas station in order to entice customers to stop and fill up. One of the cars was a 1913 Ford Peddler's Wagon, which is still on display at the Auto Show today.
"We still have people that stop for gas in Murdo just to get a look at the cars," said Pioneer Auto's Owner, Dave Geisler. "Even people who travel through every year will stop in to say hi and take a look at what is new."
Pioneer Auto has many unique items on display at the attraction. No longer just cars, they also have tractors, license plates, circus games and typewriters, just to name a few. A compiled list of the eclectic and fun collection can be found at http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/collections.php.
If the kids are feeling pent up in the car Pioneer Auto has a treasure hunt especially for them. They get a treasure map and clues to different stops around the property. Upon each successful treasure find, they get a sticker to place on the map. If they complete the treasure hunt, they get a prize at the front entrance.
Leashed pets are also welcome at the Pioneer Auto Show to stretch their legs and get some fresh air.
Not only does the Big Show offer vintage cars, antiques, and collectibles to ponder, it also contains a Prairie Town. Take a self guided tour thorough this early mid-west, turn of the century town and see things such as the original Murdo Bank, a blacksmith shop, livery barn, jail house, and general store. Another highlight you will not want to miss is the restored WNAX Gas Station.
If you are a collector or if you just want to take home a little piece of Pioneer Auto Show, they have a gift store with over 4,500 square feet of collectible items and antiques for sale. This includes toys, street signs, coca cola products and many more pieces of 50's nostalgia. You can find more information about this product and many others by visiting the website and connecting with Pioneer Auto on their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/PioneerAutoShow.
Whatever your final destination, plan a stop at Pioneer Auto Show. Since 1954 people have been coming to see what is new and to be amazed by the unique glimpse into history that this once road-side gas station has to offer.
Everyone has a friend or family member on their list that is impossible to shop for. This person generally expresses no desire for a particular gift, or in some cases they have such a unique interest that you don't even know where to begin.
At Pioneer Auto Show, we are famous for our big toys, like classic cars, motorcycles and John Deere tractors. These big ticket items won't fit most people's holiday budget, but replicas of the real things are available at a price almost anyone can afford.
Our die cast autos are model cars that are life like miniatures of the classics that inspired them. Timeless vehicles like the 1987 Chevy Monte Carlo, 1970 Dodge Cornet and 1972 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am are just a few of the models to choose from.
Customers can browse our website, www.pioneerauto.com, and choose from all sorts of replica items, classic toys, retro clocks, memorabilia and much more.
We boast a selection of decorative street signs that show your true colors, whether you are a Chevy or Ford fan.
There is a complete line of nostalgic gifts including anything from a Roy Rodgers clock to a James Dean coffee mug.
If there's one gift you can't go wrong with, it's a t-shirt. Pioneer Auto's online collection has a selection of graphic tees embroidered with classic cars like the Mustang, Camaro, and Pontiac GTO.
Give the gift of knowledge with an informative and entertaining book that your loved one will actually want to read. Pioneer Auto's online catalog features titles geared primarily towards the history of cars.
If you are shopping for a memorabilia collector or a classic car enthusiast this holiday season, start by visiting our website for these and many more collectable items. You are likely to find a nice surprise at a reasonable price.
Even with the possibility of the United States slipping into another recession in 2011, art and antiques prices around the world are rising, according to a 2010 British survey. Investors are looking for safe places to put their funds.
The survey reported a 17% increase in the prices of art and antiques, with silver and jewelry the strongest sectors due to the rising values of precious metals. Art was another strong sector.
"Even with a rough economy, arts and antiques have remained pretty resilient as an investment," said Dave Geisler, owner of Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, S.D.
At Pioneer Auto Show's Hallmark Gift Shop, there are over 4,500 square feet of collectibles for ‘50s enthusiasts. Visitors can shop for antiques and other souvenirs such as:
• Betty Boop • Marilyn Monroe • James Dean • Elvis • Specialty cars, caps, and road signs • T-shirts • Motorcycle and harley corner • Antique Coca-Cola products • Antique toys and other collectibles • John Deere and other antique farm memorabilia • Books from yesteryear to today • Beautiful Black Hills jewelry • Salt & pepper shakers, cookie jars, napkin holders, piggy banks and more
Pioneer Auto Show's online gift shop can be found at http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/cart/index.php, and users can browse for an even wider variety of vintage antiques, from toys to retro clocks to boot hooks to items for the home such as calendars.
"Visit us and see our 42 buildings of exhibits, then buy your valuable antiques in our gift shop. Or go online and look at our options there. We are the headquarters for your unique antique investments," Geisler said.
You may have seen them cruising the streets in their speedsters and leather jackets, or spotted their vintage glass globes lighting up their garage. I'm referring to automobile memorabilia enthusiasts, and they're here to stay. This group of collectors keeps the classic car legacy alive with a lifestyle filled with old-fashion spirit and automobilia.
The legends of muscle cars and gasoline globe lights live on with a fascinating and every-growing collection of automobilia. "Automobilia" is a newer term that combines the words "automobile" and "memorabilia" to describe the collection of historical, vintage automobiles, tractors and related relics. Gathered more for value than practical use, these nostalgic collectables pride their owners as they show, sell, or trade their automobilia amongst other enthusiasts.
Recently automobilia has become more popular via the Internet with automobile-based websites providing directories, auction listings, and selling vintage merchandise. This Internet presence has allowed the automobilia culture to evolve into a dynamic, enthusiastic and passionate environment. With a new online presence, enthusiasts can shop, share ideas and events, and learn about different cars and merchandise available.
Dave Geisler, owner of the South Dakota automobile museum Pioneer Auto commented, "We see people everyday who love to learn about and collect automobilia." He explained that the Internet has helped expand the craze and awareness of quality vintage automobiles. "We enjoy having online automobilia resources so enthusiasts can shop online from anywhere until they find the nostalgic treasure they're looking for," he continued.
This trend of automobilia has been around for decades, and now through the Internet, the ease of shopping and community relationships are growing tremendously. Next time you see a classic car cruising the street or vintage collectables, you can enjoy and appreciate the enthusiasts that have kept this thrilling part of history alive.
Growing in popularity over the last 20 years, Petroliana is the collection of antiques related to oil and gas stations. Among collecting of items like antique gas pumps, oil cans and vintage gas station signs, there is also a rising interest in antique gas globes.
Gas globes are a rare item among collectors of Petroliana. For many years before World War II, gas globes were placed on top of free standing gas pumps. The gas globes were used for two main reasons, to help with lighting at individual gas pumps and to advertise which type of gas was sold at that particular station.
The development of glass globes makes these pieces unique to collectors. Gas globes were made from a ring of metal with lenses mounted on either side. But the process in which they were designed is what makes them so interesting.
"You can notice most of the glass globes have very rich colors that go from edge to edge with little fancy design involved; this was due to the silk screen process. With silk screen processing, only certain colors could be chosen for logos and design," states David Geisler, Owner of Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, SD.
"We love to see people from all over the nation stopping in to shop through the vintage collector's items and watch their face light up when they find what they came for. With technology advances, we are now able to offer some of that experience on our website, making the collector's quest more possible," says this rustic enthusiast.
With the promise of another sizzling August on the northern Plains, motorcycle enthusiasts from across the nation will travel through South Dakota intent on destinations like Yellowstone and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Lying astride the Interstate 90 corridor midway between Sioux Falls and Rapid City is the town of Murdo. Here bikers will find the world famous Pioneer Auto Show known for its extensive display of classic cars. In addition, Pioneer Auto is also host to a fine collection of antique motorcycles.
"Motorcycles have always brought people together who otherwise may not relate," said Dave Geisler, owner and operator of this I-90 attraction. "Those seeking a break from the miles and interested in the history and preservation of antique motorcycles will be attracted to our extensive motorcycle exhibit."
This classic motorcycle collection appeals to anyone from the two-wheel wind set, starting with a 1914 Indian twin cylinder continuing to a 1936 Harley Davidson and to a 1986 three-wheeled motorized bike.
The motorcycle collection at this South Dakota attraction includes Elvis Presley's personal Harley Davidson. With Elvis' name still on the title and only 1200 miles, the cycle is a popular feature in the classic motorcycle showroom.
Additionally, a 1943 Indian Papoose, and a 1947 and 1948 Whizzer, always draws a crowd. A Cushman Eagle, a 1964 Honda Dream and a 1965 Honda Dream 305 are also in the antique motorcycle display at this family attraction.
"This time of year, with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the bulk of our visitors share two qualities: a desire for a short break from the wind and an admiration for classic motorcycles," said Dave. "We hope we appeal to both interests."
A tour through the Pioneer Auto Show is testimony to America's love affair with the automobile. This eye-misting historical survey begins with the 1902 Curve Dash Olds, continues through Packards from the 30s and 40s, and arrives at muscle cars of the 60s and 70s. A circuit of the display guarantees a warmly nostalgic re-examination of the American car.
"Our extensive collection of antique cars tells the history and evolution of the twentieth century automobile, showcasing the American capacity for invention, innovation and variation," says Dave Geisler, owner of the world famous Pioneer Auto Show in Murdo, South Dakota.
A glance at this auto museum's 1906 Ford Model N, betrays the fragility of early antique cars. When first introduced, the car was seen as more of a novelty than an efficient means of conveyance as this early automobile experienced frequent breakdowns - a result of bad roads and poor engineering.
Reliability furnished by enclosed bodies and standardized controls made vintage cars of the 1920s more widely acceptable. The Auto Show's 1928 Paige-Detroit, six- cylinder, four door, sedan, features this sense of added security. Examples of this solid design are also shown in the museum's two 1937 Super Charged Cords.
Power, speed, and design - classic cars of the 1940s and 50s, like the museum's 1955 Ford Thunderbird V-8 with overdrive, exemplify luxury and performance and are marked by technological advancements — most of the mechanical technology continues to be used in today's automobiles.
Restorable muscle cars, one of the milestones in the history of the automobile, represent the final paragon of owner satisfaction. An example of this is the 1968 Shelby Mustang Fastback - the popularity of its sleek lines and dependable design are clear evidence that the American automobile had truly arrived. The 1970 GTO Judge Convertible demonstrates that modern efficient technology can provide it all: durability, safety, convenience and fashion.
Showcasing the history of the automobile, a tour through the Pioneer Auto Show is not just a sentimental tour of an impressive gaggle of collector cars, but a material reminder of the true American spirit.
For many Americans, an entire culture can thrive around Coca-Cola. Did you know that the exact formula for Coke has always been a trade secret, and that the original copy is held in a bank in Atlanta? There's a popular myth that only two executives have access to it, with each executive knowing only half the formula. The truth is that each has the entire formula, and others know the formulation process. It is no wonder that, with stories like this, Coca-Cola collectibles have developed an almost mystical attraction.
"Many collectors of Coke memorabilia that I meet collect anything from Coca-Cola clocks, lamps, signs, post cards and pens to playing cards, coasters, and even Coke salt and pepper shakers. It can be a very enjoyable pastime," said Dave Geisler, proprietor of Pioneer Auto Show. "Our visitors come from far and wide, not only to see our classic cars, but to see and procure other major collectables like the wide range of Coke memorabilia."
Collecting can bring families and friends together. Coke spans many generations, so there is practically something for everyone. Those who love antiques and history might collect classic Coca-Cola memorabilia to take a walk down memory lane. Then there are those who are fans of pop-culture that keep limited edition Coke collectables to admire. Not only does collecting provide opportunities to connect when tracking down something specific, but it fosters communication around a common interest.
Whatever the motivation for acquiring Coke collectibles, participation in this fascinating pastime immerses people in a wonderful American subculture. Collecting Coca-Cola keepsakes can be more than a delightful hobby; it may become a beautiful obsession.
Murdo in May which includes a car show, car auction and huge antique auction.This year it was a milestone — the 20th anniversary. The event this year was held May 25, 26 and 27th.
The attendance throughout the weekend was estimated to be near 2,500 people. With the population of Murdo normally hanging at around 533 people, that's a lot of out-of-towners checking out what the car show, car auction and mega variety auction, had to offer.
The car show on Main Street was sponsored by the Murdo Chamber of Commerce. There was 50's music for all to hear, and delicious food was provided by the Turner Youth Group. All of the cars and tractors made it a great ride.
The antique car auction, which took place on Saturday, May 26, was operated by the McPherson Auction Co. out of Rapid City, SD. Although the skies were foggy and gray, spirits and paint colors were bright.
Dave Geisler Sr., owner of the Pioneer Auto Museum said, "One of the highlights for me was a really nice '39 Buick street rod that sold to someone from Rapid City. That was really nice to see."
The antique and collectable auction on the final day was also quite successful, with most items being scooped up by those from near and far. Check out some of Pioneer Auto's vintage items from their gift shop at http://www.pioneerautoshow.com/cart/vintage-antiques-c-93.html.
Geisler now has time to rest and prepare for the 21st Murdo in May, which promises more vintage cars, antiques, collectables and lots of fun!
