MTFCA Forum

I first started coming to Iola over twenty years ago to peddle signs when I was in that business. I haven't been able to come every year, but I've been here more times than I've missed. I'm sorry to say in recent years it's declined to the point where I think It's no longer worth the trip. The high price of admission (now $28 for the weekend) isn't justified by a meet and car show that focus more and more on postwar and later vehicles. There are still a few folks dealing in prewar parts, but mighty few compared with a few years ago, and the car show has followed the same trend. I believe this will be my last time.

Here's what I got. Yesterday: 50 ball bungees, 5Z-157 wrench, Ford oil can.
Today: A good Hayes rim, NOS oil pan, 2" abrasive wheels, two wire brushes, and (not shown) an original New Day cover for $1.


Some T guys: Adam Doleshal

Ron Paetz brings Model T parts and a shady spot to rest.

Joe Reid (white shirt) brought his two Model T's.

The show is definitely changing, they are bringing in newer cars and ideas. Model T parts are becoming harder to find. It is hard to compete with the internet. I live close and bring cars so it is still fun and just costs me time. How do costs compare with Hersey? We did have three days without rain which is very rare. Don’t give up hope.

We need parts from Iola, Kansas. That is quite a place to visit and shop.

Yes it is changing, but I still enjoy a weekend of camping and cars. I see or learn something new every year.

Old car swap meets and shows are slowly changing because the people are getting older and interest in ‘newer’ old cars. There will be a place for T’s and other old cars but generations change. And with that change interest in the cars they grew up with increases. 60’s, 70’s and 8O’s cars are considered old nowadays.

I spent all day Friday walking around and managed to find some much need T parts: steering wheel, head light rim and lenses. All for decent prices! I also had a chance to meet and greet on of my all-time heroes in the custom car world: Gene Winfield. It was a pleasant and enjoyable day!

My impression of Iola pretty much mirror's Steve's: it was a lot of walking for darn little benefit. I saw very few pre-war parts and little that interested me as a Model T guy. The admission price isn't a big deal for me, but the lack of parts is. Unless I get interested in muscle cars and custom builds again, I will cross this meet off my list. Have enough stuff to get done around here anyways to keep me busy.

This is why the pre-war swap meet at Luray needs to be strongly supported. I went for the first time this year. It was small but you didn't have to walk far to find good stuff at great prices.
We'll see you at Hershey too.
Terry