Whitman-Keller Car Show draws in more than 50 classic cars
Car enthusiasts throughout Northeast Ohio gathered at the home of Bill and Joyce Whitman for an invitation-based car show Saturday, Oct. 3. The second annual Whitman-Keller Country Cruise-In was held on a crisp fall day, with more than 50 classic cars participating in the show.“We have all kinds of antique cars,” said Joyce Whitman, a resident of Strasburg. The Whitmans invited everyone they knew who had a restored vehicle and hoped that through word-of-mouth their friends would turn out for the day.
“I would get up in the morning and call everyone I know,” Bill Whitman admitted.
According to Joyce Whitman, her husband has been restoring cars and winning trophies since he was old enough to drive, and holding a car show has always been something he wanted to do. With the help of his wife and fellow car buff, Jerry Keller, also of Strasburg, Bill Whitman’s dream certainly came true.
“He was into cars when I met him,” she said, “and it continued all through our married life.” The Whitmans now own several restored vehicles, including a 1955 Ford Thunderbird and 1970 Cougar Eliminator, but showed their 1950 teal Mercury that day.
And through all the years of collecting and restoration work, Bill Whitman has not only gained the tremendous respect of the classic car community, but also made many lifelong friendships with people who are just as car crazy as he is.
“Most of the people here have a very unique ability [when it comes to cars],” Keller said, of the crowd. “They can do body work, paint, upholstery, build engines, or even the whole car. And everybody knows Bill. He has always been known for building perfect cars.”
Throughout the day, participants and spectators enjoyed covered dishes and hot coffee, while checking out the vehicles lined up for show. No registration fees were taken and no awards were given out.
Despite that fact, rows of old Mercurys, Buicks, Lincolns, and Fords filled the yard. Matt Klingler, of Beach City, even brought out his red 1932 Ford Roadster, which recently made a cross-country trip to California.
“I own a Shelby Cobra that used to be Bill [Whitman’s],” he said. “I don’t do a lot of shows, but they sent me an invite. I’ve known him since I was little.”
Folks, like Klingler, came out from their hometowns of Massillon, Mansfield, Canton, and Mineral City, as well as the Dover/New Philadelphia area to show their support of the classic car community and their respect for Bill Whitman.
“It’s just to get together,” Joyce Whitman said.
While Keller added, “This is a car show done right. There’s no competition. It’s here to be fun.”