Step Back in Time: Exploring the Northeast Dirt Museum and Hall of Fame
If you’re a fan of dirt track racing’s rich history, you won’t want to miss the open house this Saturday at the Northeast Dirt Museum and Hall of Fame in Weedsport, New York.
A Vintage Gem: Jim Cal’s Modified Race Car
One of the highlights of the museum’s collection is a beautifully restored modified race car built by Jim Cal. This car competed in the late 60s and early 70s, driven by legends like John Mardo and Chuck Akulis. It features a classic 37 Chevy coupe body, a style commonly used before purpose-built race cars became popular.
Rich pointed out some fascinating details, like the upside-down leaf spring suspension and the “weight jackers” – bolts which could be adjusted to change the car’s stiffness without switching out coil springs. It’s amazing to see how much the cars have changed, but also how many of the core principles remain the same.
Inside the Cockpit
I loved getting a peek inside the car! Compared to modern racers, it’s incredibly spacious inside with a wide cage and a high driving position. The huge steering wheel made me think of driving a bus, and of course, the hand-painted CPS lettering and pinstriping are a testament to the craftsmanship of the era. It’s clear that drivers relied on every bit of that space and visibility to maneuver these classic cars.
More than Just Cars
The Northeast Dirt Museum and Hall of Fame is a treasure trove of motorsports history. The open house is a great time to see these incredible cars, but it’s also a chance to connect with fellow racing fans. This Saturday’s event promises a fun day with a chicken barbecue, raffles, racing personalities, and plenty of bench racing. Be sure to check out their merchandise, too!
