Antique trucks are displayed at an American Truck Historical Society show. Westfield will host an antique truck show this Sunday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Mestek Field. (Photo by Nancy Prifti)
Spectators look over a dump truck at an American Truck Historical Society show. The Pioneer Valley Chapter will host a show in Westfield Oct. 13. (Photo by Nancy Prifti)
WESTFIELD – Truck lovers are in for a treat this Sunday as the Pioneer Valley Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS) hosts an antique truck show.
The show is set for Oct. 13 at Mestek Field from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
ATHS PV President Don Prifti of Southwick said he is excited about the location, which is a new spot for the show.
“I think it will be good in Westfield,” said Prifti.
Prifti’s wife Nancy serves as the chapter secretary and said proceeds from the show will benefit the Amelia Park Arena.
“It’s a good organization and they do good things for children,” she said about why Amelia Park was selected to receive the funds.
Prifti said he took over as president after the now-defunct New England Chapter of ATHS began branching out into smaller chapters. He said he wanted to make some changes to the show and is strict about the age of the vehicles displayed.
“They must be at least 25 years old,” he said.
Anyone who wants to exhibit their antique truck is welcome to show up at the field, located at the corner of Notre Dame Street and North Elm streets, the morning of the event. Cost to enter the show is $5 for vehicles 25 years or older. Admission to the show is free for spectators.
Prifti has a soft spot – a passion, even – for the Auto Car. He has proudly displayed his ’87 Auto Car, which is still working at Prifti Auto in Southwick.
Prifti said he only takes it out to tow when necessary and treats his baby well.
“There isn’t a spot on it,” he said about his maintenance methods. In addition to keeping it super clean, the truck is housed and maintained regularly. It is even featured in an antique truck calendar.
Highlights of the day, aside from the cars, include door prizes, a raffle, entertainment by Cory & The Knightsmen, food from Old Town Caterers, and a new ATHS shirt for sale.
A flyer for the event calls for antique trucks that are “As is, Rusty or Restored, it doesn’t matter!”
ATHS is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the dynamic history of trucks, the trucking industry, and its pioneers.
Prifti said he is hoping to have 100 vehicles on display.
“We have trucks coming from the Albany area, Boston area, and New Haven area, and from all over New England,” he said.
Anyone interested in learning more about ATHS and becoming a member should contact Prifti at his business on College Highway.
