CCCA Western Pennsylvania Region

Western Pennsylvania Region

The origin of the Western Pennsylvania Region of the Classic Car Club of America. The CCCA was founded in 1952 to preserve the history of "Classic" cars as clearly defined by the organization. Our region was organized only one year later and became a CCCA region in 1954. We are proud that only four regions predate ours.

Early activity was centered around Irwin PA where very longtime member Ed Blend lived with his father who seemed to know every classic car owner in the area. The first shows were held next door at the Blue Dell drive-in theater on Rt. 30, coincidently known as the famous Lincoln Highway in automobile lore. In the 60s shows expanded to the Greengate mall and to the North Hills.

Social activities with Classics included the "Open Ditch" annual picnic that survives in many iterations to this day in spite of its weird name (which came from "Watch out For the Open Ditch") at the first one. A later highlight was the Rolling Rock Polo event in Ligonier that was a contest to see who could bring the most exotic tailgate spread of food and beverage. Everyone won that contest.

A utilitarian benefit of membership in WPR beyond just enjoying Classic Cars is finding help to maintain your own because each problem you encounter has likely been suffered by other club members. When we can’t offer advice, we can offer sympathy. WPR Membership peaked in the 70s but while the quality has lasted, numbers have waned. I suspect that somewhere in the early by-laws was a clause that required every classic sold to go out of state. But there are still fine cars still here along with classic people so stick around and enjoy them with us.

Classic Car Club of America (CCCA)

The Classic Car Club of America defines a Classic as a "Fine" or "Distinctive" automobile, American or foreign built, produced between 1915 and 1948. Generally, a Classic was high-priced when new and was built in limited quantities. Other factors, including engine displacement, custom coachwork and luxury accessories, such as power brakes, power clutch, and "one-shot" or automatic lubrication systems, help determine whether a car is considered to be a Classic. Download Full Text List of Approved CCCA Classics as a PDF

While it is desirable to have a sincere interest in these fine automobiles,it is not a requirement to own a CCCA Classic to enjoy membership in the Club.

The Grand Classics are the premier National shows for Classic Cars, and the CCCA judging standards are used by all of the major concours shows. A CCCA National first is recognized throughout the hobby as the standard of excellence. This is a good opportunity as well to see how your car "stacks up" and what, if anything, you need to do to preserve it historically. You must of course be a member of CCCA to participate, and only CCCA approved Classics are allowed on the show field. You Don’t need a Show Car or Trailer Queen to participate, we have a Touring Class for cars that are more drivers than show cars. (CCCA Membership Form)