Most car shows are either community events or fund raisers. Every so often we car enthusiasts need to attend a show just for ourselves - to relax and share camaraderie among other car owners. Such a show is the annual Buck & Old Car Bash, hosted by the Gulf Coast Buick Club. There in no registration, no competition or trophies, just a chance to relax and enjoy the hobby.

This year’s show was held on April 5th at the home of Don & Hedda Summerlin, owners of Hoyt’s Auto Upholstery in Sarasota. Their large ranch-style property is a perfect location for this event, with ample room for three parking areas. One area was dedicated to all forms of collector Buicks. A second field provided parking for other collectible cars. A third, near the road, allowed parking for the “ordinary” cars.

The weather was sunny, and if anything a little warm - but this is Florida. Members of the Buick club offered baked goods, hot dogs, hamburgers, and other goodies. A local bluegrass band provided lots of entertainment. I have no official count of cars, but it was well over one hundred, including about forty Buicks. Although it was a “come and go as you please” event, the vast majority came early and stayed all day. The event also included a “trunk swap meet” where participants could bring any items for sale that would fit in their trunks. Most of us, myself included, returned home with a few extra automotive goodies.

Gazing upon the field of Buicks, certain thoughts struck my mind. First, most of these Buicks are seldom seen at the local cruise-ins and other car events - though I can’t understand why; many are show stoppers. Second, Buicks are seldom customized or converted to street rods (although there are a few). Third, Buick had a lot of automotive milestones that we tend to forget about, until we are reminded of them at one of these events. Remember the little Buick Special? This was a compact car with some real pizzazz! Then there were the late 40’s - early 50’s models with hoods that opened from either side. The ‘54 Skylark convertible was a real gem, as was the ‘58 with its extra helping of chrome. Then there were the Rivieras, the Grand Nationals, and the list goes on and on.

This is indeed an annual event, held the first Sunday in April. Be sure and watch for details of next year’s event in the pages of Mike Kelly’s Cruise News. CN