You could excuse local residents last week if they found themselves inquiring of news from the front, the health of King George, or the steamship schedule at Picton Harbour.

The Southern Ontario chapter of the Horseless Carriage Club paid us a visit. The Tales and Trails Tour brought over 35 pre-1916 motor cars, and their owners, to this bucolic ’burgh for a week of motoring about the picturesque byways.

Wineries, beaches, sightseeing. The vistas and venues were appealing to those who prefer moving at a slower pace, in a Model T Ford, EMF or REO.

Club President Kim Baechler said members were impressed with the beauty of Prince Edward. Touring in classic cars,  most of which are convertibles or feature open tops, at about 30-35 miles per hour makes for a most enjoyable excursion when it comes to leafy laneways.

“When you are driving a car down the road at 30 mph, you see and experience things much differently than you would if you were driving 60 mph. 

“Even the younger generations who get behind the wheel of these cars, they come out of it remarking how much fun and exhilarating it is compared to driving a modern vehicle.”

Pastoral Prince Edward 

The pastoral countryside made the tour that much better.

John and Jackie Porco of Myrtle, Ontario made trips to the PEC Lavender Farm, the Struisvogel ostrich ranch, a few wineries, and even Hay Bay.

When asked if there was any trepidation driving his 1911 EMF Model 30 aboard the Glenora Ferry, Mr. Porco said yes, at first.

“But it’s mostly made of wood so I think it will probably float,” he quipped.

The Porcos thoroughly enjoyed the County and plan to return.

“The food, the wine, everything has been wonderful. People are so friendly and welcoming,” Ms. Porco said.

“Everyone is just so happy to see these cars — it’s not something you can see every day,” Mr. Porco added. “They really bring a smile to every one’s face. People come up, ask questions and it’s a really nice and easy way to meet new friends.”

Mr. Baechler figures for the few that might see a Model T as an irritant on the road, the vast majority are truly keen to watch.

“Walking through a museum is one thing, but seeing and hearing these vintage cars is something else.”

Of course, these moving museum exhibits are bouncing down poorly kept County byways.

Mr Baechler noted though that early automobiles were designed for the rudimentary roads of their day.

“We had a handful of issues, but for the most part, everything went smoothly.”

A Cruise Night to Remember

The club hosted the tour’s closing banquet at the Crystal Palace. Most members dressed in period garb to make the night more authentic.

The activities ended with a unique Prince Edward County Mash Up: Picton Cruise Night, a show and shine of vehicles from the 1930’s to today held its weekly meet up outside the Crystal Palace.

A more complete rolling motor car museum in Prince Edward County there has never been than on Thursday, July 10. Full Stop.

In fact, the offerings were so eclectic, the Fraser family’s 1928 Buick McLaughlin  — you’ve seen it at any local parade worth the name — wasn’t the oldest example in the yard.

“It’s nice not to have the oldest vehicle here at the show for once,” Graham Fraser said with a laugh. “I figure I’m right in the middle with this Buick.”