2008 marks the 30th for the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance. And while the automobile, in various forms, is the center of attention, this annual event has managed to raise more than $6,000,000 to help support Meadow Brook Hall, itself an icon in American automotive history.
Meadow Brook Hall
Meadow Brook Hall was built with the money from the fortunes of two industries that helped shape the history of Michigan – lumber and automobiles. Matilda Dodge Wilson was the wife of John Dodge – one of the co-founders of the Dodge Brothers Motors Car Company. In 1925, five years after both brothers died, their widows sold the company for $146 million. One month later, Matilda Dodge married Alfred Wilson, a wealthy lumber broker. Shortly thereafter, Mrs. Wilson began the planning for what was to become Meadow Brook Hall. The groundbreaking took place on her 43rd birthday in October of 1926 and a housewarming party to mark its completion was held on November 19, 1929 – less than a month after the stock market crash.
Today, Meadow Brook Hall is listed in the state and national register of historic homes. Designed by Detroit architectural firm Smith, Hinchman & Grylls, the 88,000 square foot mansion features 110 rooms, 39 uniquely designed brick chimneys, two elevators, four kitchens and a full size home theatre. As you can imagine, the upkeep on a place like this isn’t cheap, hence the reason for holding an event like the Concours to help raise money for its maintenance.
A step back in time
1947 Talbot Lago
If you’re a fan of the automobile and live within a reasonable driving distance of southeastern Michigan, you really owe it to yourself to visit the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance at least once. And while the event at times takes itself too seriously (the fashion show, some judges walking around in blazers and straw boaters), the sheer breadth of the show can be breathtaking.
1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk
You only have to take a look at this year’s show to see how much the event encompasses. At one end of the lawn, you have part of the GM Heritage collection, while at the other end is an eclectic display of late ’40 and early fifties American automobiles including a 1951 Hudson Hornet convertible, a 1956 Lincoln Premier convertible and a 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk – all in pristine condition.
1953 Ferrari 342 America Speciale
Between these two points you’ll see millions of dollars worth of automobiles from such marques as Ferrari, Bugatti, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Packard, Duesenberg and Mercedes-Benz. If you’re a car gal or guy, it’s a great way to spend a summer Sunday in Michigan – just be sure to bring your walking shoes and sun block. While the price of entry isn’t cheap at $25 per, students (with a valid student ID) and children under 12 get in for free and each paid ticket comes with a beautiful souvenir program. Parking and shuttle service is also free on the Oakland University campus.
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1954 Hudson Italia
For more information about next year’s event, visit the official web site at www.meadowbrookconcours.org.
