When Bob Decker was a teenager growing up in Cedar Lake, he coveted a bright yellow 1960 Chevrolet he observed tooling around town.
Many decades later, his dream came true, as he put his muscle car on display at the Second Annual Car Show recently in downtown Highland — painted yellow, just like that past object of his affection.
“I’ve had this car since 1985 but didn’t start working on it until 1999,” Decker said, as his car drew a crowd. “It had been wrecked and needed quite a bit of work. I rebuilt the engine, had to use another frame and found parts over the years.”
Similar stories prevailed during the Car Show, which was sponsored by Highland Main Street. The exhibit set up along Highway Avenue in the downtown area was the same as last year.
“The overwhelming response from the owners of the show vehicles, as well as the people who attended last year, was the reason for continuing it this year,” said Cecile Petro, Highland Redevelopment director. “Everyone loves cars.”
Petro was right on the money, as hundreds of people came out to take a peek at the 145 cars of various types, years and colors were lined up for the crowd.
“I sure enjoy this, going to see all the old cars,” said Jane Larimer of Merrillville, with a laugh. “When I look down this street, I can tell you the names of people I know that had ones just like them. They bring back a lot of good memories to many of us older people.”
There was no typical visitor to the show — they came in all ages and sizes, and from many areas.
“We live in Illinois but come to Northwest Indiana at least once a month to see my parents,” Jack Roberts of Oak Brook, Ill., said as he looked over a teal-blue and white 1951 Crosley.
“We’re spontaneous when we’re here, and there’s always something interesting going on, so we never have to worry where to go,” Roberts said. “My dad and I always worked on cars together, so this show brings back a lot of memories.
Awards were given in 10 categories and trophies were provided by Thunder Road Productions.
Although the day remained cloudy, that didn’t stop a steady steam of visitors from peeking under hoods or picturing themselves behind the wheel of one of the snazzy automobiles.
“These cars are fantastic. I’ve always wanted to find one to restore,” former school teacher Jeffrey Duggan of Calumet City, Ill., said. “Now that I’m retired, I think I can make that a reality. I always liked to tinker under the hood and now I have the time to do it.”
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Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.