An annual three-day vintage car event rolled into Kalamazoo this past weekend. Over 2,500 vehicles and their owners were present at the 39th Street Rod Nationals North held at the Kalamazoo County Expo Center and Fairgrounds from September 7-9. It's sponsored by the National Street Rod Association.
A “street rod” is a car made before 1949 that’s been modified and modernized by its owner to include updates like air conditioning, USB ports, and Bluetooth capabilities.
For many attendees, the event is a tradition and something they look forward to every year.
Carol Terpstra of Kalamazoo has been bringing cars to the Street Rod Nationals North for about 30 years. Terpstra said her weekend began a day early as she and her friends fought for their favorite space on the lot at the fairgrounds.
“We always go and sit in line and we get there at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday morning, and you can’t get in to registration until two in the afternoon,” Terpstra said. “But we sat there, and there’s the same group of folks every year, and we sat there and we laughed and had such a great time together, to get this spot.”
Charles Leak of Southfield attends every year to gather ideas and inspiration for new things to do with his vehicle.
“You want to update all the time, either you got where you want it or you don’t,” Leak said. “You’re never satisfied. It’s a never ending thing, it’s like your wife, always demanding more money.”
Many of those who brought cars to the show are retirees who have always loved cars. Now, Brian McCool of Kalamazoo says they have the time to devote resources to their hobby.
“I’ve been involved with hot rods and custom cars since I was a little kid, I was always enthused, built model cars when I was a kid. When I got old enough to have one, I didn’t want something like everyone else had,” McCool said.
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