Lovin' those old Chryslers, Dodges and DeSotos at the Airflow Club of America
From 1934 through 1937, the Chrysler Airflow car was produced as a full-size production car that used streamlining for design. Chrysler hoped this new design would make the car less susceptible to air resistance. However, the Airflow models didn't get off to a very good start, with many of the first models having some major defects. Despite some major setbacks, Chrysler continued to produce Airflows through 1937.
Folks at the Airflow Club of America love these classic Chryslers and their sister models. They are dedicated to preserving and restoring Chrysler Airflow cars, DeSoto Airflow cars, and Dodge Airflow trucks. The club also has a great interest in collecting, preserving and recording information about Airflow automobiles for enthusiasts from around the world.
Club members enjoy getting together to learn about Airflows and help others who are interested in these amazing automobiles. Car shows and other events make being a part of the club enjoyable for all.
Making progress since 1962
The Airflow Club of America was founded in 1962. It has grown over the years to more than 600 members in the United States and Canada as well as seven other countries. It covers three regions in the United States: Central, Eastern and Western regions. There's an annual meet hosted by one of the regions where cars are judged for quality and originality.
Club membership information
One may join the club by submitting a membership application found online at the club's Web site. An annual fee is due upon joining. Discounts are available for husband/wife memberships. Members are not required to own an Airflow vehicle, but should have interest in these makes of vehicles.
Club activities and meetings
The club's annual meet includes a car show, car restoration judging, and a banquet where members can get to know one another and chat about their cars and everything else. Many of the members even drive their Airflows to and from the meets. The meet is located in different regions each year. Regional branches rotate in hosting the meet. In 2004, it was held in Charleston, South Carolina. For 2005, it was held in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The 2006 meet was held in Minden, Nevada. There are typically 20 to 30 Airflow automobiles at the Annual Meet.
Club members also participate in other events throughout the year. One is the Hershey Swap Meet and Eastern Region Banquet, held annually at the Gathering Place in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. At this meet, the Eastern Region of the Airflow Club of America also hosts a banquet. Another popular meet is the San Diego Swap Meet, where the Western Region attends and also hosts an annual banquet in San Diego's Old Town.
The Airflow Club newsletter
Each month, the club publishes a newsletter with photos, stories and club updates. The newsletter also covers historical information about Airflow vehicles. A members' marketplace is included where members can advertise their Airflow vehicles, parts, and memorabilia they would like to sell. For parts that are very difficult to obtain, the club strives to reproduce these through projects. These might be rubber parts, owner's manuals, etc.
There's also a roster of members and information about their Airflows. It is sent only to members. Through this, members are able to work together and build resources about different makes and models of Airflows. They can also assist one another in restoring their cars.
Club operations
The Airflow Club operates with officers and a club staff. Officers include the president of the club, a vice president, secretary, treasurer, national director and regional directors. On staff are an editor, Web master, Chief Judge Emeritus, storekeeper, and a special projects director. Members needing to contact an officer or staff member can find the contact information for each at the club's website.
The Airflow Club Web site
At the club's Web site members and visitors can browse some great Airflow photos, view club officers and learn more about the club and its activities. Also, those thinking of joining the club can view membership fees and print an application. A very informative section is provided at the Web site that details the specs and other interesting information about the Airflow vehicle. Here, readers can learn how to identify an Airflow automobile using its original design features.
Online forums to help members
Many club members who enjoy being online visit the Airflow forum provided by AACA. Here members can ask for technical help, share information, and find Airflow parts. It's a quick resource for those needing advice or a part in a hurry. There's also another Airflow forum at Yahoo where many of the club's members chat and/or view the bulletin board.
All in all, the Airflow Club of America makes it easy for fans of these vehicles to get to know one another and have a great time exploring and driving their favorite automobiles.
