Gallivanting in Boyertown

 Yesterday was a rainy, dismal day, which offered the perfect opportunity for a drive to Boyertown to check out the Vintage Car Museum.  And, I must say, it certainly did not disappoint.

Once through the doors, one is transported to a different era involving transportation, which many of us take for granted in today's world.   But this labor of love museum offered a wealth of information regarding mode of transport over years past.  What was most surprising to me was just how many of the vehicles on display were made in the Reading, PA area. I always associated automobiles with Henry Ford and facilities far from the state where I grew up.  But, here, dozens of cars proved otherwise.  

Duryea seemed to be a popular vehicle in this area.  This Phaeton, built in 1904 was produced at  a time when the company was building just about one car a week. The man responsible for this type of vehicle, Charles Duryea, had worked in the bicycle industry, and he was instrumental in the development of pneumatic tires for these cars, even if the originals managed to get a flat every 10 to 15 miles. 

James Reber, founder of the Acme Bicycle Manufacturing Company, also stemmed out into car manufacturing.  This 1910 4 cylinder water-cooled engine vehicle was built in Reading as well and featured a gravity fed fuel system. 

As driving became more common, the automobiles became larger to accommodate more people.  This Touraine Model 61 was built in Philadelphia and seated seven passengers.

The name Pullman is often associated with travel, and so we see a 1908 Pullman "light" touring car.  This one is categorized as the oldest restored and operational Pullmen Motor car in existence.  It was built in nearby York, Pa.

Here are just a few shots of the many models that were featured on the floor. 

A 1937 Chrysler Royal Six Town Sedan 

Here is a 1915 Electric Bus

And, a traveling truck 

that featured some interesting interior details.

There were service vehicles, 

 a Studebaker, 

as well as some other delightful models.

But cars weren't the only thing on the floor.  This recreated gas station was certainly entertaining.

As well as the full size Fegley's Diner, which was carefully moved from its original location to stand in this enormous building. 

It's easy to see just why the owners wanted to see its preservation.

There were motorcycles with sidecars

an ancient hearse

and a collection of children items. 

And let's not forget the collection of AAA emblems from all over the country!

There was one display that caught my eye that I found particularly intriguing: The Mighty Atom.

The information was presented in the back of what looked like a prison-on-wheels vehicle.  There was a large array of photos and magazine articles, most of them fragile and faded.  There appeared to be a small man pulling a truck full of women with a single cable wrapped around his body.  Also, there were photos of the same man bending heavy metal chains with his hands. 

After a brief search, I was able to determine that Atom Man was a Polish Immigrant named Joe Greenstein. He was, indeed a marvel when it came to unusual strength, and he performed his curious feats until he died at the age of 84.  I'm not certain why his information is featured in the museum, but I must say, it certainly did add a bit of quirkiness to the entire experience.

And, we all know how Marty and I love to embrace quirkiness!

Here's hoping you enjoyed our day out in Boyertown.  A rainy day excursion that certainly brightened our day!  I hope the same is true for you.