2025 Misselwood Concours d'elegance

Receiving the President's Award: 1956 Packard Caribbean Hardtop

One of the highlights of my car-show season is a small but charming event put on by Endicott College in the bucolic sea-side enclave of Beverly, Massachusetts: The Misselwood Concours d'Elegance. Hosted at a 19th century "summer cottage" now a hospitality and wedding venue owned by the college is less grandiose than Newport's Audrain Motorweek & Concours at the Breakers - but none the less beautiful or entertaining.

Whereas the guilded-age cottages of Newport's 19th century new money are on full display for all to envy along Bellevue Avenue, the winding backroads Boston's north-shore (route 127) discretely yields only passing glimpses of equally as majestic summer homes - concealed behind private gardens, tall hedges and the occasional gatehouse - typical of the old-money families abhorrently averse to blatant displays of wealth.

As an invitation only show - multiple day event - car owners may submit an application for entry / display. The coordinators of this and other Concours d'elegance go to great lengths to select interesting, eclectic and special interest automobiles that are either significant in their place within automotive history and very often less commonly viewed in public. The venue, unique opportunity to view uncommon cars and what is often times a more dressy affair, fuels the sense that this is an event rather than a gathering of hobbyists. Many times owners have invested thousands - and often millions - of dollars in these cars. The event organizers also roll out the red carpet figuratively speaking - hosting elaborate welcome receptions, gourmet luncheons, dinners, lectures and of course, the Tour d'elegance - a caravan of attendees' cars through a 50 or 60 mile tour of some of the areas most beautiful back roads. In many instances, the tour is mandatory for consideration of an award.

Ending with the actual Concours d'elegance - an award ceremony with the pomp and circumstance of a college graduation - most offer awards for special classes, either by year, body style, make, etc. As was the case at this event.

Awarded by the College President is favorite among the cars on display.

Whether you're a participant or just attending to view the event - I've found that the barriers that often divide us in society come down during such events. We're all there to appreciate the cars, the venue, talk with others about our own car-experiences and favorites. I've met friends who live all over the world - sometimes getting together at other events. People whom I might otherwise not have either the cause or opportunity to engage - and befriend.

So car show season is much for me. Sure I love to drive my old cars. Being invited is fun. Who doesn't love a trophy? But it's the shared joy with other the people that makes for more smiles per gallon.