The Watson Lake Car Show was founded over 51 years ago by the Prescott Antique Auto Club (PAAC). Yes, this writer is a member of this group of motorheads in the Prescott area. Since its inception, the event has been the go-to event in Prescott. From the beginning, when Prescott was a small town of about 16,000, this has been an annual local Motorhead Cultural event. The location is so kool, with the Dells in the background and granite boulders making a photographer’s dream, plus the real grass. Yes, in Arizona we do have some grass at selected locations, this being one. Watson Lake, being adjacent, keeps the area kool with a breeze off the lake. Wow, this is one of the best settings for a car event. A steady stream of spectators, in my opinion over 9,000 during the two-day event, yes, they had great parking and kept the lines moving. Good job PAAC on logistics!
The event has something just about for everyone. The car show draws over 400 classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles over the two-day run of the event. Sunday, the marque car was Volkswagens, as we have a strong contingent of hair dryers in northern Arizona, including this writer. The Swap Meet/Parts Exchange is one of the largest in the region and draws sellers from western states. That means that special part you are looking for was probably there waiting for you! I know I found a ’40 Ford steering column that I had been looking for on a project we are doing in our shop. If you were out looking for a classic ride ready to drive, the Car Corral had many to choose from. I left my cash at home, too many in the barn already, but hey, if you missed this, you might have found that ride you have been looking for. Another cool aspect of the event is the Old Engine Fire-Up, where the local and regional Antique Engine Community is well represented. If you have not seen a hit-and-miss gas engine, ya gotta check it out. Can you believe one of the vendors had one running his generator? It was kool and was a feature not to miss.
The members of PAAC make their own trophies, and it’s an honor to have one on your mantel, with 40 presented, which was an art event in its own right! Saturday, the registration line was managed well by members and workers, such that you got your band and parked with ease and, at your convenience, came to the registration desk to either check in or register. The goodie bag had lots of goodies, including an issue of Roddin’ AZ for your reading pleasure. Coffee and donuts were available in the morning, while many breakfast and lunch options gave you choices.
PAAC is by far the largest classic car/truck group in the Quad Cities and is growing steadily. They meet monthly, the 2nd Wednesday at 6:30, at the PAAC clubhouse. Prescott Antique Auto Club offers annual scholarships to students currently pursuing automotive-related degrees or those looking to enter other trades. In addition, they started an endowment fund which will ensure future scholarships in perpetuity.
Mark your calendars for next year’s new date, June 11-12! This being a great year for participation, it was a two-day event in support and continuation of our future motorhead automotive culture.
Photos & Story by
Chris Addington
Covering Northern Arizona Events