A Stow museum event this weekend will feature Al Capone’s Cadillac and more
Car and history buffs might want to put a trip to Stow on their weekend itinerary.
The Collings Foundation in Stow will open its doors to the public on June 18 and 19 for its “Wings and Wheels Event,’’ displaying dozens of cars and other memorabilia from early part of the 20th century.
“American Elegance’’ is the theme of the weekend, which will feature 70 automobiles, racecars and aircrafts from a bygone period of U.S. history.
Among the highlights is a 1940 Cadillac V16 Limousine that was once owned by the notorious mobster Al Capone. The Cadillac, which is normally on display year-round at the Foundation, will be operating during the event.
There will even be actors playing Capone and his cronies. A real-life state police officer will be on hand to bring them to justice.
Collings Foundation spokesperson Hunter Chaney says the event is a fun way for patrons to experience “living history.’’
“This is a fascinating, interesting way to highlight American culture and the design of the classic automobile from the 1920s to the mid-1940s which is arguably the height of classic car designs that came from American manufacturers,’’ said Chaney.
Chaney says historical commentary will play in the background to give visitors insights into the events that were occurring at the time the vehicles were in use.
“It’s a slice of American history presented in a very unique fashion,’’ said Chaney.
In addition to Capone’s Cadillac, visitors can catch a glimpse of a 1927 Rolls Royce built in Springfield, Massachusetts and a 1932 Duesenberg SJ Dual-Cowl Phaeton that was once used by car designer Fred Duesenberg as his personal test vehicle.
Attendees may fly in an restored Stearman bi-plane once flown by Tuskegee airman during World War II.
In addition to classic cars, several historical aircraft models will be on display, including a restored Stearman bi-plane that was flown by a Tuskegee Airman during World War II. Attendees can take a 20-minute ride in the plane for $200.
This event is the first of three times this year that the Collings Foundations will open its doors to the public. During the rest of the year it offers privately-booked tours.
The next two public events will be July 30 and 31 and October 8 and 9.
But if you’re interested in attending this weekend, Chaney warns that the museum can be slightly tough to find.
“10 points to Gryffindor if you can get here,’’ joked Chaney.
The Collings Foundation is located at 137 Barton Road in Stow.
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