Date: Fri 23-Oct-1998

Publication: Bee

Author: SS

Quick Words:

Packards-Behn-Hawley-Inn

Full Text:

Eastern Packard Club Rolls Into Town

(with photo)

"It was 35 years ago when we met here at the then Hawley Manor Inn for the

first annual meet of the Eastern Packard Club," said Jack Behn of Trumbull,

chairman of the event on Sunday, October 17. He added that, "It is a pleasure

to be back here at The Mary Hawley Inn, and we have a good turnout."

In total, close to 30 Packards, dating from 1929 to 1958, lined up in the

parking lot and drew spectators all during the day.

Judging took place in the morning and cars were rated in a number of

categories including cleanliness of chassis, underbody, interior, engine and

engine compartment, condition of wheels, hubcaps, paint, chrome and instrument

panel, and even the operation of the horn. Following lunch at the inn, about

20 plaques were presented to the various car owners.

The club, with over 200 members nationwide, drew entries not only from

Connecticut, but also from New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Massachusetts

and New Hampshire. Last year the club met in Litchfield on the third Sunday in

October. "We are not sure where we are travelling to next year, but we will

let you know," said Mr Behn.