Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Ernie Hudson has declared July Automotive Heritage Month and July 11 as Collector Car Appreciation Day in PEI at the request of the National Association of Automobile Clubs of Canada.
For sixteen years, antique vehicle owners across Prince Edward Island have been celebrating Automotive Heritage Month every July to recognize the importance of antique cars and their collectors.
“Celebrating the heritage and impact of automobiles reminds us of their significant role in the history of travel, economy and our quality of life. I encourage all Islanders and visitors to join in recognizing our province’s rich automotive heritage and attend events across the Island.”
- Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Ernie Hudson
Across PEI events and activities featuring antique cars always draw a crowd. Some events in July include:
- Classic Car Show in Fortune, July 13
- Annual Dusk till Dawn Street Vans Show and Shine in Crapaud, July 18 - 20
- PEI Firebird Bandit Run in Summerside, July 27
- Classic Car Nights in Summerside, every Friday until the end of August
“Owning and working on heritage vehicles allows us to connect with the past, appreciate the craftsmanship, and enjoy the satisfaction of restoring and preserving a piece of history,” said Troy Handren with the PEI Antique Car Club. “The province’s support of antique car collectors is deeply appreciated.”
Prince Edward Island has played an important role in Canada’s automotive history since 1866 when the country’s first automobile, a Ware Steam Carriage, arrived in North Rustico. In the early 1900s, PEI banned cars on Island roads due to concerns that they frightened horses and other livestock. After 1913, communities started to allow vehicles under certain conditions and by the 1960s vehicles were quite common on Island roads.
Antique car collectors can use specialized license plates to recognize their vehicle’s history and authenticity. The PEI Antique Car Club issues the plates on behalf of the province.
Media contact:
Stacey Miller
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
902-218-2103
samiller@gov.pe.ca