Vintage vehicles drew a good crowd to the Franklin County Garage Museum on Saturday before the rain sent folks running for cover.

Bill Shubert of Johnston City said 11 vehicles participated in the antique automobile show hosted by Downtown Benton Inc. The director of the Southern Illinois Region Vintage Chevrolet Club of America said there was something for everyone.

“Among the entries were a horseless carriage, a couple of beautiful Pierce Arrows, a Plymouth convertible, a Model A Ford and an Austin.”

Shubert’s father, Jim, said he was glad to attend.
“I just got out of the hospital on Friday after suffering a mini-stroke,” he said. “I am glad to be able to be here.”
Shubert’s blue eyes twinkled as he looked at the variety of vehicles on display and recalled the days his own 1928 Chevrolet was rolling down the dirt roads.
“I have spent most of almost 90 years in Johnston City,” he said. “I was a mine manager in Benton, Johnston City and Waltonville and could set up any machinery needed.”

DBI organization committee Chair Alan Odom said the day was fun but short.
“We had hoped to have a parade of the vehicles but it got rained out,” he said. “We had quite a steady flow of people look at the cars and trucks and many tours were given inside the garage museum.
“The cars were beautiful and interesting,” Odom said. “We also had great food. Many of the people also stopped in the antique malls located on the Benton Public Square.”
Odom said the rain did not dampen the committee’s spirit.

“Despite the rain, those who attended had many nice compliments for those who organized the event,” he said. “We are already planning next year’s event. Participants received com           memorative plaques and we look forward to their return next year.”

He said committee members are working on the next big event.
 “There is no time for rest as we prepare for the June 6 annual antique street festival,” Odom said. “The day begins at 8 a.m.

“We have a host of vendors from outside the area that will fill the parking spaces around the square with a variety of items to appeal to every budget.

“The appraisal show begins at 9 a.m. in Dan Malkovich Park,” he said. “We urge residents to go through their attics and basements looking for treasures to be appraised. Each appraisal is only $5 and proceeds will be used to host future DBI events.”

Odom said the antique street festival continues until 5 p.m. “We will have plenty of great food available from our partner restaurants, The Buzz located on the square and Pizza Shack located just off the square on East Main Street,” he said. “Chartwell’s is bringing a huge grill and the aroma of grilling food is sure to draw some hungry folks,” Odom said.