One of the more interesting vehicle displays that I have seen at any car show is that of the Southern California Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS). With their unique display of  classic tractor trailers, fire engines, military vehicles, oil and gas tankers and pick-up trucks, they turn heads whether they are on display at a show or in a convoy heading to an event. They have everything from beautifully restored work trucks and semi’s, vintage trucks that appear to be fresh off a working farm, military transport trucks and everything in between. For this reason, we are excited for everyone to see the club at the March 3, 2013 Pomona Swap Meet, where they will be our Featured Car Club.

The ATHS So. Cal. Chapter was organized and chartered June 5, 1982, with ATHS past President Rolland Smith as one of the founders. The group has grown from a handful of truck-loving members to now being over 150 strong. The So. Cal. Chapter encompasses an area from Santa Barbara in the North to San Diego in the South and from the West coast to the Arizona border. The majority of members call Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties home.

The ATHS’s main event is their annual Antique Truck Show and Swap Meet held the 1st Sunday each May at the Orange Empire Railway Museum, 2201 S. “A” Street, Perris, CA. This year it’s held on Sunday May 5 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. when they will celebrate their 28th anniversary of the event. The railroad museum is a great location and has something to keep the whole family entertained. See 2013 event flyer. In addition to the Sunday show, they plan a “Mystery Tour” on the Saturday prior for early arrivals.

An impressive display of ATHS Semi's

An impressive display of ATHS Semi’s

They’re an active group of vehicle enthusiasts attending numerous events throughout the year. The 3rd Saturday of each month they meet for breakfast at a local restaurant. The group also plans outings to local attractions, car shows and private collections. They have an incredible looking display of vehicles parked on the grass at the Route 66 Rendezvous in San Bernardino. In fact in 2012, the ATHS hosted the final leg of the ATHS Historical Route 66 Tour, which concluded with the “Rendezvous”. For 2013, the ATHS Southern California Chapter is planning a convoy Southern California via old Hwy 395, Hwy 58 and Hwy 99 to the Antique Farm Equipment Show in Tulare, since this year they are featuring trucks.

They would like everyone to join in on the fun and Southern Californian hospitality. For more information, please contact them at ATHS-Southern California Chapter, P.O. Box 109, Calimesa, CA 92320.

Be sure to stop by the ATHS display on the front row of the Vintage Vehicle Show/Sell Section at the March 3, 2013 Pomona Swap Meet to see their truly unique truck display and learn more about the club, their events and membership opportunities.

– Matt Zarzana

Truck Show at the Orange Empire Railway Museum, Perris, CA.

Truck Show at the Orange Empire Railway Museum, Perris, CA.

Truckin' for Kids Truck Drags, Irwindale drag race between 53 GMC and 48 Mack Tow

Truckin’ for Kids Truck Drags, Irwindale drag race between 53 GMC and 48 Mack Tow

Military vehicles of the ATHS

Military vehicles of the ATHS

Vintage fire truck on display

Vintage fire truck on display