By Robert Conrad

The American Truck Historical Society held their 33rd Annual Antique Show and National Convention at the Eastern States Exposition Center in West Springfield, MA, on May 31- June 2.  The ATHS travels to a different state each year for their national event and Massachusetts hadn't hosted the event since 1991.  This writer, along with the thousands of spectators who attended this year's show, will tell you that it was worth waiting 21 years since the 2012 version has to be considered as one of the best ever!

All roads definitely led to Springfield, MA, as over 1,000 trucks showed up from just about everywhere including California, Idaho, Texas, Iowa, Canada, and of course, Massachusetts!  Sunny skies and a steady stream of classic iron of all shapes, sizes, and makes led to some great photo opportunities at the picturesque Eastern States Exposition Center.  The beautiful "Avenue of States", which features full size replicas of each New England state house building, served as a beautiful backdrop for the shined-up workhorses of yesteryear that looked as if they could go back to work after the show ended!

The show concluded on Saturday amidst everything from early morning drizzle and fog, to showers, to torrential downpours.  This didn't stop the steady flow of spectators holding umbrellas and dressed in rain gear.  This crowd was determined to come and take in everything the show had to offer despite the conditions.  From the endless rows of chromed-out classics, to the huge indoor & outdoor vendor area, to the midway which featured everything from mouth-watering cheesesteak sandwiches to fruit smoothies, there was plenty to see.  Despite the rain on Saturday, the trucks continued rolling in all day to push the grand total over 1,000!

The 2012 edition of the ATHS National Show was a huge success and a big round of applause should go out to everyone who worked hard to make it such a great event.  If you like classic trucks you have to attend this show when it comes to your state, or make some travel plans if you can't wait.  Hopefully you'll get to see all of the beautifully restored classics that paved the road for todays more modern working show trucks.