Early Ford V8 Club
of the Inland Empire #23

During the summer of 1969, Dick Colby (already a member of the National Ford V8 Club), Jim Poston, Speedy Gunsaulis, and Bob Mingo decided to pursue their interest in old Ford V8’s by forming a local group of fellow enthusiasts. Through word of mouth and with newspaper ads, they worked to let area people know about the new club. By the end of the year, officers had been elected, a chapter had been received, and the club had officially become the Inland Empire Regional Group of the Early Ford V8 Club of America.

THE FIRST OFFICERS
President: Dick Colby
Vice President: Cecil Meyer
Secretary: Speedy Gunsaulis
Treasurer: Bob Mingo
Historian: Frank Bevard

The early meetings were held in homes, in Dick Colby’s shop, and in the Washington Trust Bank on Trent Avenue. But family participation was encouraged and added to the size of meetings and activities. By November of 1970, Vera Power became the regular meeting place for the ever expanding group. A roster was put out in July of 1970 showing a total of twenty members.

THE FIRST MEMBERS
Joe Yates, Cecil Meyer, Glen Rusho, Frank Bevard, Dick Colby, Bob Mingo, Les Smith, Jim Poston, Speedy Gunsaulis, Chuck Whittaker, Lew Daniels, Don Bakken, Dick Grosch, Franke LaBare, Bob Somes, Scott Fink, Hugh Hyde, Bill Frazier, Jim Barnett, and James Kilmer.

The well known Spokane Swap Meet, held every July, got its start in 1971 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The following year it was moved to the Spokane Interstate Fairgrounds. The Swap Meet has continued to grow, both in size and in popularity. It is considered one of the major events of the year for the Inland Empire old car fans.

Over the years, the Early Ford V8 Club members have participated in an untold number of activities. They have helped one another with restoration and have helped track down needed parts. The many tours, parades, and shows have allowed the proud members to show off their finished cars. Our club has been fortunate to present the opportunity to socialize with other friendly people while sharing a common interest.