Have you seen the news about the treasure trove of 500 classic cars stashed away in the small town of Pierce, Nebraska?  Apparently there have been stories for years about a dealer who kept unsold stock over the course of his career.  What’s amazing is that the rumors were true.  And now this vintage collection of mostly Chevys from the 1930’s to the 1970’s, many with 20 miles or less on the odometer, are being auctioned off.  The two day Lambrecht Chevrolet Company Auction has drawn the attention of classic car lovers from all over the world… obviously!  As of this writing, a rare 1958 Chevy Cameo truck had a high bid of $46,000.  Slightly over my budget already, and it’s expected to hit six figures!  Meanwhile, the 1977 Chevy Vega is at a much more affordable $3,400.  If only I had listened to my parents and become a doctor!

In similar news, the Bourbon Tunnel in Naples, Italy recently unveiled a number of World War II era cars and motorcycles that had long been forgotten.  The tunnel system, originally built as an escape route from the Royal Palace of King Ferdinand II of Bourbon, was used as a hospital and air raid shelter during the War.  The cars, including Fiats and Lancias, are thought to have been confiscated by the police and stored in the tunnels during the Fascist regime.  Now they provide a rusted glimpse into Naples’ past.

There must be a biological need to search, explore, and discover.  The craving is human nature.  From Columbus in 1492, to the California Gold Rush in 1848, to the yard sale that I rummaged through last Saturday… it seems people are always looking for something. That’s what makes the Lambrecht Auction and Bourbon Tunnel stories so compelling.  Because actually  finding the treasure is indescribably exciting.  Everyone loves a good barn find!  (FYI, I scored a sweet set of gently used golf clubs at the yard sale!  Okay, my wife wasn’t as excited as I was, but…)

It’s this biological need that makes the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show so valuable to both buyers and sellers from all over the nation.  We’re one of the few places where you can routinely expect to find unbelievable treasures.  With the next show just around the corner, you can feel the excitement building here.  Soon the place will be buzzing with the passion and anticipation of people on a quest… whether they’re searching for an original rocker molding to complete their ’41 Buick, the badges needed to restore a ’55 Bel Air, or maybe just a “Chevy Parking Only” sign to complete the garage!

If you’re an “automotive archaeologist,” mark October 20th on your calendar.  It’s going to be a helluva show.  And let us know if you feel like flying to Nebraska this week… we may just tag along!