Famous Tucker automobile makes a rare appearance

HUNTINGDON, Pa. – The Swigart Antique Auto Museum will play host to the 27th annual Tucker Club Convention, 2001: A Tucker Odyssey on June 21-24.

“We expect approximately 100 people from all over the country to come to this region,” said Pam Prosser, executive director, Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau. “This is a great opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of the resort setting and share the historical significance of the area including the Swigart Museum.”

Area attractions.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore some of the attractions surrounding the Greater Altoona area including the National Historic Allegheny Portage Railroad, Horseshoe Curve and Raystown Lake.

The Tucker was first introduced in the late 1940s, promoted as the “car of tomorrow.” A total of 51 cars were made and only 47 still remain, two of which can be seen at the Swigart Museum – the only museum to own and display two Tuckers.

The museum is home to the 1947 Tucker prototype, the “Tin Goose.” This is the first time in more than 20 years it will be present at the annual convention. It made its debut on June 19, 1947, and is the most desirable of all Tuckers made. The 1948 Tucker-No. 1013 was the car featured in the 1988 movie, “Tucker: A Man and His Dream,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola.

Other displays.

Also on display at the Swigart Museum are approximately 35 antique automobiles dating from 1900. The oldest antique auto museum in the United States, the Swigart Museum contains the largest collection of automobile emblems and license plates in the world as well as many other transportation collectibles and antique toys.

The Tucker Club of America’s mission is to keep the legend of the Tucker car alive. It was one man’s dream to design a safer car with new engineering and safety features, but also incorporate luxury in a medium priced field.

The convention headquarters is located at the Lake Raystown Resort & Lodge. Nestled in woodlands along the scenic shores of Pennsylvania’s largest inland lake, it offers 54 rooms, dining facilities, swimming and beach areas, sightseeing via a paddlewheel boat, a water park, miniature golf course, hiking, biking and fitness trails, a marina and fishing opportunities.

For information contact the convention host at 814-643-0885 or send an e-mail to TuckerClub@home.com.