ATHS JULY-AUG 2015 Newsletter

ATHS NUTMEG CHAPTER STEERING COLUMN
JULY- AUGUST 2015 – OUR THIRTY-SECOND YEAR
DON ARNAUCKAS, EDITOR
14 AVALON AVENUE
OAKVILLE, CT 06779
Next Meeting:
July 12, 2015
Rondeau’s Dairy Bar
1300 Ware St. Route 32
Palmer, MA 01069
Meeting at 2:00 PM
ATHS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President
Jonathan Yeomans
63 Bunker Hill Rd
Andover, CT 06232
860-803-5799
yeomansjon1@gmail.com
Vice President
Peter Yeomans
63 Bunker Hill Rd
Andover, CT 06232
860-742-6796
yeomansdor@comcast.net
Treasurer
Thomas Bachand
108 Harrisville Rd.
Woodstock, CT 06281
774-230-3553
tbachand@charter.net
Secretary
Betty Jay
12 East Main St.
Brookfield, MA 01506
508-867-4294
limrikki@aol.com
At-Large
Harold Foskett
187 Peake Brook Rd.
Woodstock, CT 06281
860-465-7503
foskettequip@snet.net
At-Large
Colonel Arnold Briggs
Membership
Elizabeth Robertson
Editor
Computer Asst.
Don Arnauckas
Kathy Arnauckas
175 Blackmore Pond Rd
West Wareham, MA 02576-1427
P.O. Box 373
Willington, CT 06279
14 Avalon Avenue
Oakville, CT 06779
508-317-7726 or 508-748-2500
ColonelBriggs@aol.com
860-429-3451
historiliz@aol.com
860-274-4758
dwatrans@sbcglobal.net
Show Chair
John Raymond
27 Rixtown Rd
Griswold, CT 06351
860-608-5033
Lindamraymond1@yahoo.com
Webmaster
Linda Raymond
27 Rixtown Rd
Griswold, CT 06351
860-591-1261
Lindamraymond1@yahoo.com
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Well, grilling season is upon us and I switch from snowmobiles to boats, both of which require an amount of patience
that sometimes escapes me. We are lacking in precipitation likely due to the fact that we got it all in January and
February, but hopefully our farmers in the area are doing ok. I can only assume that all of you are supporting
them! This newsletter being presented to you, comes with a heavy heart, but also with a rejuvenated excitement over
our old trucks. We were hit with the passing of Bob West last month. This newsletter is dedicated in his memory. We
also kept him and his family in our thoughts and prayers while looking at the old Macks, Internationals, Fords, etc. at the
National show recently in York, PA.
As Harold Foskett put it so well during our last meeting at Bob’s house, it is great to be a member of an organization that
really comes together during hard times. This club really is a family and the support that was shown to Bernice and the
family was outstanding. Memories of Bob were shared and help was there to move Bob’s trucks to the service and
setup of the meeting, among many other things. Those of you that knew Bob West I’m sure can say that Bob truly lived
a full life and for that we celebrate what a great life he had. I wish I had known him longer but will always be thankful to
him for helping my father out in a pinch hauling a newly restored truck to the Syracuse National show. The trucks in
heaven gained another driver. Bob, you will be missed.
We just got back from the York show which I believe clocked in at 1,213 trucks! This was bittersweet in that my
competitive side feels we could have beat that in Springfield had the weather been the same as York, but it was fantastic
to have such a turnout for all of us to get to see. There seemed to be a higher percentage of post 1950’s road tractors
than the pre-1950’s work horses, but they were great to see. I heard a few 2-cycle diesel trucks buzzing around that I
don’t hear too often, along with a few other rarities like a heavy duty 1942 Ford C.O.E (4 spots away from the 1941 C.O.E
that we brought), Detroit Diesel racing trucks and twin turbo diesel road tractors, a plethora of Divco milk trucks, Mack
mining trucks and wreckers from the 1920’s, and a GMC with a flatbed trailer so nice you could eat a 5 course meal off
of it. We had a good showing of Nutmeggers at the show, many with a truck, it was great to see you all! Kudos to the
volunteers working the show, it was very well organized.
I have posted photos on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/nutmegATHS. We have also populated the
Calendar of Events on our web page (http://nutmeg.aths.org) and pictures will be added there as well. As a relatively
new member compared to others in the club, I would like some help in writing the history of the club so we can post
that on the website as well. Any content you have is appreciated.
With that I’ll close with saying I hope to see you all and your trucks at our Brooklyn Show!!! We appreciate the
volunteers that come out to help setup, run the show, and then take it down; this makes for a pleasant show for all to
see. If your truck is perfect, still working, or in need of a restoration, we want to see it! Sometimes the not-so-perfect
trucks are as interesting as the show trucks, so bring them down for all to enjoy! They all have a story to tell. If you
don’t have a truck, bring the family, kids love these trucks for sure. And if I don't see you at the truck show, I'll see you
at Mike Rondeau’s Ice Cream Shop for our July meeting!
-Jonathan Yeomans
H E L P W A NT E D
BROOKLYN TRUCK SHOW
June 27 Sat. Set Up
1 pm to 3 pm
June 28 Sun: Starting at 7-7:30 am
Truck Registration
Flea Market
Admissions Main (Back) Gate
Show Field Parking (Pick-ups)
Admissions Route 169 Gate
Show Field Parking (Class 6, 7, 8)
Club Booth
End of Show Clean-Up
Let’s ALL volunteer a few hours to give all our members a chance to
enjoy the show. Contact John Raymond NOW at 860-608-5033
or email him at Lindamraymond1@yahoo.com
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NUTMEG CHAPTER
MINUTES OF MEETING
May 17, 2015
Call to Order: 2:10 PM by Nutmeg Chapter President Jonathan (Jon) Yeomans
Opening:
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Chapter President. This meeting was held in the West’s
Picnic Grove where many Nutmeg Chapter meetings have been held over the years. Jonathan expressed the members’
gratitude to Bernice for hosting this event and Bernice welcomed one and all on behalf of the West Family. Jonathan then
led the members in a moment of silence in memory of Robert B. West. Bob was remembered with words of tribute and
honored with the symbolic empty chair on which his jacket was placed.
Bernice announced that Mike Rondeau sent along ice cream for the members and that it would be served after the
meeting. All present expressed genuine appreciation for the generosity of Rondeau’s Dairy Bar.
There were 35 members present. Bob West, Jr. was present as were other members of Bob and Bernice’s family.
Secretary’s Report:
A motion was made to accept the Secretary’s Report of the March 22, 2015 meeting as it appeared in the Newsletter. The
motion was seconded and the members voted unanimously to approve the report.
Treasurer Report of February 28 – April 20, 2015: Tom Bachand
1. Club Account Activity: Deposits of dues, a Newsletter advertisement fee, and two 2015 Thanks Giving dinner ticket
fees were made. A check for the expense of printing and mailing the Newsletter was written from the Club Account.
2. Show Account: Checks were written for the expense posters and flyers printing, and purchasing the 2015 Show Tshirts and dash plaques.
Members had no further comments or questions. A motion was made and seconded and the vote was unanimous to
accept the Treasurer’s Report as read. The Treasurer has the written report on record in Nutmeg Chapter files.
Membership Report: Elizabeth Robertson
1. There are currently 168 members in good standing. 112 members have paid their 2015 dues.
2. Members are reminded that they can pay the past due 2014 dues and current 2015 dues at the Brooklyn Show.
Newsletter Report: Don Arnauckas
1. Members are requested to submit their articles and stories by June 1 to meet the printing deadline. Don invited
anyone present who would like to share thoughts in memory of Bob West to send them into the Newsletter.
2. The Antique Vehicle Law and Bill to increase the age requirement for vehicles is still moving toward legislation. Under
the bill, Connecticut vehicles seeking registration as antique, rare or special interest motor vehicles would be required
to be at least 25 years old. Currently, vehicles 20 years old or older are eligible for this status and special license
plates. For the purpose of property taxes, the bill also increases the assessment of these vehicles in Connecticut from
$500 to a higher value yet to be determined.
3. The Calling Tree membership notification system was recently utilized. Don mentioned that it is essential to include
new members’ contact information on that list. Elizabeth will forward names and information to Jon.
4. Don reminded members that advertisements placed in the Newsletter for equipment, parts or trucks are free. Also,
if anyone has anything to sell, they should bring their posters or advertisements to the National Convention in York,
PA for posting on the York Show advertisement board.
5. Newsletter Expense: If you wish to receive the Newsletter electronically, contact Don. The present cost of Newsletter
production and mailing is $9.60 per year, per member. Future cost is expected to exceed $10.00. Annual Chapter
dues are currently $10.00.
Recommendation: The Club initiate a two-tier membership fee effective January 1, 2016: Dues $15.00 for those
who wish to receive the Newsletter through the US Mail and $10.00 for those who will receive it electronically.
ACTION: This proposal will be mentioned in the Newsletter and at future meetings for members’ feedback.
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OLD BUSINESS
1. Nutmeg Chapter Web Site: Jon reported that he and Linda Raymond have uploaded stories and have started the
Calendar of Events. Pictures will be uploaded in the future. The Nutmeg Chapter Show date is on Face Book.
2. The Past Members Memorial Plaque: Harold Foskett is coordinating the effort to bring the Memorial Plaque up-todate. He and Cynthia are striving to have it presented at the Annual Thanks Giving Dinner in November. Please
contact the Foskett’s if you wish to be of assistance.
NEW BUSINESS
1. ATHS National Convention and Truck Show 2015 in York Pennsylvania is May 28 – 31
It was noted that Bed and Breakfast Lodgings are the only available accommodations at this time in the York area.
2. The Thanks Giving Dinner: Based on the fact that all members present continue to support holding the Thanks Giving
dinner at the Haul of Fame in Canterbury, Jonathan will speak to Denis about the availability for the annual meeting.
It was noted that the earlier meeting time of 12:00 with the dinner immediately following the business meeting
worked out very well last year. Request to do it again this way as made.
3. Nutmeg Chapter Show Brooklyn CT is June 28, 2015
Jonathan noted that John Raymond reported that everything is in order for the 2015 Nutmeg Show. Volunteers are
still needed for Saturday set-up, Sunday breakdown and to serve as alternates in all volunteer positions for the show.
A map of the Brooklyn Fairgrounds truck layout schematic will be included in the next Newsletter.
Better identification and signage will be provided to direct drivers to the Registration Booth.
4. Mike Rondeau has invited the Nutmeg Chapter to hold its next meeting at Rondeau’s Dairy Bar in Palmer, MA.
Members accepted the invitation with gratitude and voted on the date of July 12, 2015 for the meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS
1. Jim Dowd sent along a proposal that the Nutmeg Chapter purchase a 6X9 brick at the ATHS Museum in Kansas City in
memory of Robert B. West. The recommendation was made to purchase a brick in honor of Bob. Tom will take care
of writing the check and placing the order.
2. Get Well Wishes: To Reggie Phillips as he deals with health issues.
STORY TIME or TRUCKING with BOB………
In memory of Bob West, several of his friends paid tribute to their friend and fellow truck enthusiast with their own stories
of miles and times on the road with Bob over many years and decades.
Ken Anderson: While working to develop the Berkshire Green Acres Campground in Ashfield, MA, Ken’s GMC Dump
Truck suffered a broken axle. He called Bob West that Friday evening and Bob came out on Saturday to help. It just so
happened that Bob needed a driver to haul a carnival ride from Williamstown, MA to Torrington CT and Ken became
that driver at 10pm that Saturday night. Until 1985, Ken helped Bob move carnival rides on the “midnight” run. He
noted that Bob was great at bartering and could trade off helpers while always treating others fairly and well.
Peter Yeomans: Pete had invested ten years in restoring a tandem-axle truck that he had planned to haul to the
National ATHS Convention and Show in Syracuse, N.Y. Two days before the show, he finished the restoration project,
prepared his F350 and triple-axle trailer to load, only to discover that the main leaf axle on the trailer was shot and
couldn’t be used. Pete was devastated. He called Bob to see if he could help by hauling the restored truck to Syracuse.
Bob never hesitated, said “Sure, bring it up and you can help me load my golf cart”. Pete expressed a sense of being
forever indebted to Bob for making this happen for him.
Art Jay: Bob trailered Art’s ’48 Federal to the Baltimore, MD National ATHS Convention & Show. Art recalled his surprise
at seeing Bob, Bob’s hauler and the Federal pass him by on the auto bypass level of the George Washington Bridge.
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George Mudgett: George told of being a kid and skipping school to hitch a ride to Syracuse with Bob. He had a lesson
on how to utilize tools on hand when the gas line broke at the carburetor and Bob used a ball-peen hammer to get the
fitting back in place.
Calvin Hutchison: Calvin has been a member of the club for ten to twelve years or so and regrets that he didn’t get to
know Bob longer. He knew Bob’s brother, Byron, as an employee of Ansaldi Concrete in Manchester, CT.
Bob West, Jr: In response to Ken Anderson’s question about the hunting rabbit haul from Bucksport Maine, Bob
recounted the Sunday that the family spent feeding those rabbits after the truck broke down in route.
Jon Yeomans: Jon spoke about the tobacco barns that Bob used to move. Today it would require a wide load escort
and be more of a production than it was in the day when Bob knew the job and just got it done.
Harold Foskett: The Foskett Family have been part of the Nutmeg Chapter for 27 years. Bob was a founding member
of the Club, he set the standard for a non-competitive and rewarding camaraderie among all who wished to be part of
it, and remained devoted to the Club and trucks throughout his life. Harold said that it continues to be personally
rewarding to be part of an organization where all the members pull together. While Bob’s passing is a loss to each and
every one of us and to the Cub, the Club will go forward to live on as it was established. Harold expressed gratitude to
Bernice for always being there for Bob and for the Club. “Bob was a good guy”.
Dorothy Yeomans: Bob West broke the mold and Bernice was the perfect trucker’s wife.
The meeting adjourned at 3:05 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Jay, Secretary
More Trucking with Bob via E-Mail
Bob was one very fine gentleman. Always had time to speak, say a kind word, maybe even tell a
story or two, but, never, ever, had a mean word about anyone. He represents a true Yankee, hardworking,
very resourceful, frugal, and always getting the job done, on time, on budget. He was quick to extend his
hand, thanking you for the business.
This is one great thing about belonging to an organization such as the Nutmeg Chapter ATHS, as we
would never have known him and his lovely wife, Bernice. We are honored to have known Bob, and we wish
him well on his next journey, and hope he finds his All-Wheel Drive MACK, for another potato run out of
Maine.
Rest in Peace, Bob
Colonel and Mrs. Arnold Briggs
And a phone message from Denis Yaworski
Bob was always a regular at the Wednesday morning meetings at the Haul of Fame Museum. It
took him about an hour and 40 minutes to get there and he came in any kind of weather. There were times
when Bob was released from the hospital on Tuesday and showed up at Yaworski’s on Wednesdays.
I recall many times arriving at a truck show and in no time Bob was coming across the field to say
“hello”. Bob hauled many old Fords to Canterbury for me and I always appreciated that. At the Wednesday
meetings we had many lively conversations about Bob’s “lunch box”, but that is another story.
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ROBERT B. WEST
1923 - 2015
The members of the Nutmeg Chapter ATHS extend their deepest sympathy to Bernice and Bob’s children, Robert
Jr. and Susan on the passing of Robert B. West. A founding and devoted member of the Nutmeg Chapter ATHS,
Bob was active in the Chapter until his passing. He attended the January meeting at Matt Pfahl’s and was a
vibrant as ever. The following is his obituary as it appeared in the Hartford Courant on April 30, 2015.
Robert B. West, 92 of Somers, beloved husband of Bernice (Staniszewski) West entered into eternal
peace on April 29, 2015 at Johnson Memorial Hospital, Stafford. He was born in Tolland on January
21, 1923, the son of the late Rupert and Sarah (Wilcox) West. Robert authored an article which
appeared in “The Wheels of Time” magazine. In it he described his experiences in trucking when
he started in the 1940’s. He enjoyed his work especially when a challenge was involved. He moved
a 70-foot log from Cornwall to the Mystic Seaport Museum where it was made into a mast for the
Charles W. Morgan, a wooden sailing ship. Another unusual move involved hauling a boxcar to
Putnam for a museum. Bob and his truck also took part in moving the Edaville narrow gauge railway
from Edaville to the Maine Narrow Gauge Museum in Portland, Maine. He loved dancing, especially
the square dances, and traveled many miles to attend them. Bob loved parties and was very happy
to see many of his friends at his 90th birthday party which was held at “The Haul of Fame Museum”
in Canterbury. He was a member of the Tolland Grange where he served as Master for many years,
the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS), Nutmeg Chapter Founding Member (ATHS), Antique
Truck Club of America (ATCA), Granite State Chapter (ATCA), Scantic Valley Antique Engine club, and
many other related organizations in New England.
In addition to his loving wife of 62 years, Bernice, he is survived by two children, Robert B. West, Jr
of Portland, Maine and Susan E. West of East Windsor, a sister Ruth Frankfort in LeCanto, FL and
many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by three brothers Harold, Byron and
Donald. His family received friends on Friday May 1 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Somers
Funeral Home, 354 Main St., Somers. The funeral service was held on Saturday May 2 at 10 a.m. at
the funeral home. Burial followed in North Cemetery in Tolland. In lieu of flowers, memorial
donations may be made to the organization of the donor’s choice.
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A Tribute to Our Friend Bob
By Don Arnauckas
Bernice ask me to say a few words about Bob at his funeral. How can you say a few words about Bob?
We all have stories about Bob and after 92 years there are a lot of stories.
We could say he was hard working, rugged, a business man, mechanically inclined, devoted to his Family
and the kind of person you would be proud to call a friend. To narrow this down somewhat, let me tell
you what I learned from Bob.
After talking to him at truck club shows and meetings, I always came away feeling young. Listening to him
talk about the projects he was doing on this truck and improving something on another truck, and let’s
not forget the KB International. Bob always had something in the works. I don’t believe he ever got up in
the morning and had nothing to do.
Bob was into recycling long before it became the “in” thing. Just look at his trucks. They were saved by
someone who believed in longevity. Everything Bob had was here for the long haul, even his lunch box!
I recall a conversation around ten years ago, with Bob asking me to look for a stainless steel tanker for
him. He told me what size would be good for hauling cider and most importantly, it would have to be in
good condition because it would have to last him a long time. I thought to myself, “What is a long time
to a man in his 80’s?” Well, with Bob West he was into longevity and there was still a lot ahead.
Not that long ago he told me he registered and insured his trucks and hopefully he’d work a little because
he needed something to do. Work was Bob’s life and he did it in a very professional way. Bob may have
been semi-retired but, never retired. He was always dressed for work.
Speaking of longevity how about Bob & Bernice married for 62 years!! What a team for the long haul.
What I learned from Bob is that there is no finish line in life. You run it like there is no end.
I can speak for the guys of the Nutmeg Chapter ATHS that Bob will be missed. When we get to the end of
the meeting and they say….Anyone have a story???? How about you Bob……..? Now Bob can swap stories
with Roger, Al, TA, Herb, Erv and the other guys. I believe God put Bob here to do his work and brighten
all our lives and he did that well. Now he can rest.
A Note of Appreciation from Bernice
Bernice wishes to extend her sincere gratitude to members and friends of the Nutmeg Chapter for the flowers, cards, and
offers of help that she has received. And, it was wonderful to see so many of his friends at the calling hours on Friday and
the service on Saturday.
Bernice has offered their Picnic Area as a site for future meetings and writes the following:
I was sincere when I agreed to our picnic area as a site for future meetings. Like Bob, I enjoy seeing the place
utilized and everyone having a good time. I realize that the trucks will not be there and this is a big factor in the Club
choosing a place for a meeting. Everyone was wonderful with helping in setting up and then cleaning up. Please include
this in the newsletter. I think our chef, Robbie LaPlante deserves a big thank you for serving as chef. His wife says he never
cooks at home and she took pictures to remind him of his capability.
I’m afraid that I cannot add anything other than that right now because I feel Bob has just gone on another trip
and will be back. I cannot accept anything else for now.
B.W.
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Bob West & ATHS National Shows
Bob attended the National Shows whenever they were in the Eastern part of the country. At the 2014 Springfield
Show, Bob had six of his trucks there. The 2011 South Bend, IN show was the debut of Bob’s 1947 International KB-11
thanks to Wayne DeVoe. In 2006 at the Baltimore, MD show, Bob brought the Mack B-61, his 1935 Ford and Art Jay’s
Federal. I recall seeing Bob at the Auburn, IN show and Bob Manchester and I needed a ride to our motel in Fort Wayne.
Bob said “Hop in my Lincoln and I will drive you.” Large Lincolns were Bob’s car of choice. Also in the car was Bob’s
sidekick, Bob Kenyon. Bob and Bob were travelling buddies, and if you saw one, the other Bob sure to be nearby.
In 2003 Bob was in Syracuse, NY with two trucks. In 2000 Bob had his one-of-a-kind Mack B Model 4 x 4 at Valley
Forge, PA. Bob and his Ford Dump were in Greensboro, NC in 1997 and in 1994 Bob had his Mack B-61 at the Buffalo, NY
show. Needless to say, Bob West was a Supporter of the ATHS and antique truck enthusiasts.
The 2015 ATHS Show in York, PA was the largest antique truck show to date, with the unofficial count of 1200 plus
trucks on display. Golf Carts were sold out and people that did not mind walking were looking for a place to sit down in
the shade. There were trucks everywhere and when you thought you saw them all, you found another area full of antique
trucks. I think those who attended came home “trucked-out”! It was a great show.
On a sad note, it was the first time in decades where we did not see a familiar red truck with black fenders from
Connecticut. I did see Bob Kenyon, but the other half of the Bob and Bob travelling buddies wasn’t there…..Or was he
there?
A high point of Bob’s trucking career was having a six-page article about him in the 2013 July-August of Wheels
of Time, featuring Bob’s trucking experiences till he was 90 years old. This article is proof that an old trucker can write
down his stories to pass on. Our newer members should try to obtain this issue of WOT and read this excellent story of a
real old-school trucker. You will not be disappointed.
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MY LUNCH BOX
By Bob West
I was given this lunch box when I began first grade in Snipsic Lake School. I was six years old at the time. I put
it on Miss Smith’s desk because I didn’t want anyone to damage it. Also, I could see it from where I sat.
The handle didn’t last very long so my Grandfather Wilcox, who had a woodworking shop and grain business,
made a new handle from a harness strap. It is still on it and in use today.
This lunch box has been around. I used it through grammar school and I carried it to work for many years. I
did not use it when I hauled furniture or potatoes.
Now I use it once a week when my wife lets me. Every Wednesday a group of us meet at The Haul of Fame
Museum to get together and swap stories.
My wife does not like this lunchbox so when I didn’t take it for several weeks with my lunch, the guys made
this Declaration of Lunch Box Freedom and signed it. I now use it every Wednesday.
11/03/2012
Bob has written down some of his other stories and Bernice has lovingly collected them over the years.
There may be more “Trucking with Bob” stories in future issues.
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Mack MH Sleeper Cab with Trailer
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2015 Nutmeg Chapter’s Brooklyn Show Truck
Art Jay’s 1948 Federal is the Nutmeg Chapter’s 2015 Brooklyn Show Dash Plaque Truck. It is a model M16 1 ½ Ton truck
has a Hercules JXE 245 ci engine with a 5-speed direct transmission. Art provides the following history of his truck:
The original owner was Kapla Paving Company located in the south end of Hartford. Several people in the Nutmeg Chapter
do remember this company. Kapla was involved in road work throughout the Hartford area. The truck had a Worthington
air compressor, mounted on a custom fitted stylish body. The truck was most likely purchased from a one-time Federal
truck dealership, also located in Hartford’s south end.
The truck was eventually owned by Ken Miller, who had several Federal’s at his Broad Brook, CT location. Ken removed
the air compressor and changed the style of the body. As he began to downsize his Federal fleet, he brought his truck to
the Nutmeg Chapter Annual Show in June 1994 and offered it for sale. I had joined the ATHS earlier, had just retired from
a UPS career and was actively looking for a truck of my own….a retirement hobby. I met Ken for the first time at this show
and he did offer it to me saying, “If there is anything immediately wrong, or you don’t like it, I will take it back.” I never
forgot that honesty. Ken has always been a friend and a man of his word and the trusting Hercules motor might run
forever. I average 500 plus miles a year and have had to rebuild only a water pump over that twenty-one year period. I
have attended four ATHS National Shows including driving it to Syracuse and have attended thirty-one regional shows.
NEXT MEETING
OUR JULY 12, 2015 meeting will be held at 2:00 p.m. at RONDEAU’S ICE CREAM BAR located at 1300 Ware Street, ROUTE
32 in PALMER, MA. Mike invites us to bring your truck if you’d like, come early for lunch and stay for the 2:00 meeting
and gathering. Call Mike at 413-283-5281 for further details. We are looking forward to some delicious ICE CREAM!
JOHN B. MONTVILLE RECEIVES “HISTORIAN OF THE INDUSTRY AWARD”
Congratulations to John B. Montville of Poughkeepsie, NY who received the Historian of the Industry Award at the ATHS
2015 Convention and Show in York, PA. John wrote his first book about trucks, titled simply “Mack” in 1973. Detailing
the history of Mack Trucks from 1890 to 1973, Montville’s book has become a valuable reference source, with information
about various Mack models and production numbers. A second Montville book, “Bulldog” published in 1979, recounts
the history of Mack’s AC models from 1912 to 1938. Montville’s most recent book, “Refuse Truck Photo Archive”, a history
of refuse collection trucks, was published in 2001. John has been a member of the Nutmeg Chapter for many years and
has been selling his books, as well as other books, at many truck shows and meetings.
John Montville with Don Arnauckas at York, PA Awards Banquet
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ITEMS FOR SALE
TRUCK PARTS FOR SALE
FOR SALE 1966 Mack B-83SX Tractor
One Aluminum Fuel Tank 100 GAL, Length 44”
Diameter 28” with 2-5” Straps and 2 Aluminum Frame
Hangers with Footstep
Two Dietz Chrome Steel Headlights, Round for a
Peterbilt or Autocar. New in the Box. Never Mounted
Call Ubald Saskal at 203-584-5105
BOOK FOR SALE by Don Arnauckas
NH-250 Cummins with Quad Box. 55,000 Rears
12x24 Radial Tires. All Tires in Good Condition.
Truck Runs Great. $15,000. Call Bill Mitchell
at 203-739-0118
FOR SALE 1945 GMC COE Crew Cab
A collection of 82 Black & White and Color Photos taken
in Connecticut in the 1950’s, 1960’s & 1970’s. Photos of
Defunct Freight Hauling Companies & some OwnerOperator Rigs. These are working that will be
remembered by drivers who were part of the Golden
Age of Trucking. Priced at $35 including tax (Plus $5 if
mailed).
Contact Don Arnauckas at 860-274-4758 or email at
dwatrans@sbcglobal.net.
Originally a line-truck for NJ Bell Telephone Co.
I’ve owned truck since 1979. Last run in 2002 to ATHS
Brooklyn Show. Some parts removed for restoration
work. Still need restoration. Towable. Removed & extra
parts will be needed to pack up for transport.
Sales Price $5,000. Rebate up to $4,000 after we’ve
been treated with respect & you’ve removed
everything. (You will need the $4,000 & more to restore
this unusual truck.) Contact Charles Dainton of
Mansfield, CT 860-456-2033 (H) or 860-933-5407 (C)
FOR SALE 1950 IH L-160 PLATFORM DUMP
Has not run in a while, Rough condition.
Truck located in Hebron, CT
For More Information
Contact Lee Johnson at 860-617-6445
MIKE’S MYSTERY TRUCK???????????
Visit our Nutmeg Chapter WEBSITE:
http://nutmeg.aths.org
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Visit the Nutmeg Chapter on FACEBOOK at:
https://www.facebook.com/nutmegATHS
ATHS CT Nutmeg Chapter Steering Column Calendar of Events for 2015
June 13
2015 Truck Driving Championship sponsored by Motor Transport Association of CT at NETTTS, 32 Field
Rd, Somers, CT. 8:00 am Sharp! Nutmeg Chapter is a sponsor of this event and will display trucks at
this event. Contact Jon Yeomans for further details at 860-803-5799 or yeomansjon1@gmail.com
June 13
Touch-a-Truck at the Lutz Children’s Museum, 247 South Main St, Manchester, CT Contact Bob Eckert
at 860-643-0949 ext. 18 or reckert@lutzmuseum.org
June 13-14
ATCA Connecticut Yankee Chapter Show—8 AM to 4 PM (Always the week before the Macungie
Show) Bethlehem Fair Grounds, RT 61, Bethlehem, CT. Contact Bill Mitchell at 203-739-0118.
June 14
4th Annual Mass. Diesel Truck Show at Brockton Fair Grounds, Brockton, MA. Starts at 8:30 am
June 19-20
ATCA Annual Truck Show and Flea Market, Macungie Memorial Park, RT 100 Macungie, PA Contact
ATCA at 610-367-2567
June 27-28
Transport for Christ Truck Rally & Rally Celebration at Lebanon Expo Center, Lebanon, PA. Contact
Cerwin & Doris High @717-665-6347 or www.transportforchrist.org
June 28
ATHS Nutmeg Chapter Annual Truck Show and Flea Market (Always the week after Father’s Day)
Brooklyn Fairgrounds, Brooklyn, CT.- 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact John Raymond 860-608-5033 (cell)
July 9-11
Walcott Truckers Jamboree, Iowa 80 Truck Stop, Walcott, IA. Visit the website for more details
www.walcotttruckersjamboree.com
July 11-12
ATHS LI Chapter 14th Annual Show at Island Antique Power Association Grounds, Riverhead, NY.
Contact Denis Ryan at 631-821-4845
July 12
ATHS Nutmeg Chapter Meeting at Rondeau’s Dairy Bar, 1300 Ware St., Route 32, Palmer, MA
Business meeting at 2 PM. Contact Jonathan at 860-803-5799 or Mike at 413-283-5281
July 12
ATCA New England Chapter Truck Show, 8:00 to 3:00, Bolton Fairgrounds, RT 117, Lancaster, MA.
Contact Bill Semple at 978-460-0465 or oldtrucksrfun@verizon.net. Able to deliver trucks on
Saturday, self-contained motor home parking. Vendors & food available. Parking for 500 trucks.
July 18-19
QVEA-Zagray Farm Summer Show, Route 85 in Colchester, CT - 8:00 am- 3:00 pm. Contact George
Lehr @ 860-639-1213, Ed @ 860-442-5182 or www.ZagrayFarmMuseum.org
July 18-19
ATHS Pine Tree Chapter Commercial Vehicle Meet, Transportation Museum, Owls Head, ME
Contact John Ellingwood at 207-590-2298
July 26
ATCA Bay State Chapter 14th Annual Show at Worchester Sand & Gravel, 182 Holden St, Shrewsbury,
MA Contact Mike @508-852-1683
July 26
ATCA Uncle Sam Chapter Antique Truck Show @ Washington County Fair Grounds, Route 29,
Greenwich, NY. Contact Clarence Ritchie at 518-642-9437
July 31–Aug 2 Northeast Rockbusters Antique Construction Equipment Show & Display, Mark Gluck’s Farm, 159
Packerville Rd, Plainfield, CT 8 to 5 daily. www.nerockbusters.com for more details.
Aug 1
ATHS Green Mountain Chapter Truck Show (Always the Saturday before the first Sunday in August),
High School Grounds, RT 5, Bellows Falls, VT. Contact Roger Martin at 802-439-5797.
Aug 2
Belltown Auto Show, Firemen’s Field, RT 16, East Hampton, CT. Contact Larry Emmons @ 860-2678584
Aug 6-9
16th Annual Brockway Show, Brockway Museum, I-81 Exit 12, Cortland, NY. Contact
www.brockwaytrucks.org or 607-299-4185
Aug 9
ATCA Mid-Hudson Chapter 12th Annual Truck Show, Ulster County Fairgrounds, New Platz, NY.
Contact 845-255-6211 or walotis@yahoo.com
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Aug 21-22
ATHS Classic “White Bash” @ IOWA 80 Truck Stop, Walcott, IA. Contact Bruce Ohnstad @
612-824-5843
Aug 23
ATCA Granite State Chapter Show for Vehicles 1960 or Older-NEW LOCATION is Epping New
Hampshire Speedway, 15 miles south of previous location, RT 27 (a mile from RT 125). Contact
Marilyn Smith at 603-664-9761
Sept 4-6
Woodstock Fair, County Fairgrounds, Woodstock, CT. (Always Labor Day Weekend) Contact Cal Neely
at 860-928-0341 or Harold Foskett at 860-928-5748
Sept 12
2015 Mack TrucktoberFest, Mack Service Center Museum, Allentown, PA - Contact 610-351-8999 or
macktruckhistoricalmuseum.org for details.
Sept TBA
ATHS Nutmeg Chapter Meeting Date and Location TBA
Sept 13
2015 “Wishes on Wheels”, Rentschler Field, East Hartford, CT - Registration at 6:30 am; Convoy at
9:30 am. Information at www.wishesonwheels.com
Sept 19
US Diesel Truckin’ Nationals, Raceway Park, Englishtown, NJ. Phone 743-446-7800 or visit website for
details at www.racewaypark.com
Sept 19-20
Bennington Antique and Classic Car Show and Swap Meet (Always the second week after Labor Day)
RT 7, Powmat, VT.
Sept 25-26
ATHS Hudson Mohawk Chapter Antique Truck Show and Flea Market (Always the third week after
Labor Day) Ballson Spa, NY. Contact Dick Linstead at 518-581-1829.
Sept 26
Friends of Autocar Annual Show & Luncheon at Goshen Fire Co., West Chester, PA. Contact Ed
Goldsborough @610-667-0629 or goldsborough@gmail.com
Sept 26-27
CT Antique Machinery Association Fall Festival (Always the last weekend of September), RT 7 One
mile north of Kent, CT.
Oct 2-3
Gerhart’s Mack Day, Lititz, PA. Contact 717-626-8544 for more information
Oct 3-4
QVEA-Zagray Farm Fall Show, Route 85, Colchester, CT 8:00 am – 3:00 pm. Contact Ed @860-442-5182;
George @860-639-1213 or www.ZagrayFarmMuseum.org
Oct 3-4
Old Time Fair, Blue Slope Museum, Inc., 135 Blue Hill Road, Franklin, CT. Contact Ernest Staebauer at
860-642-6413, or cell 860-377-3747
Oct 11
ATHS Pioneer Valley Chapter Annual Truck Show (Always Columbus Day weekend), Mestek Field, RT
10 & 202, North Elm St, Westfield, MA. Contact Don or Nancy Prifti at 413-569-3666
NOV TBA
ATHS Nutmeg Chapter Annual Thanks-Giving Dinner and Annual Meeting. Location and date TBA.
Please call the contact number(s) before traveling to a listed event to verify that the information
contained in this list is correct. Refer to “WHEELS OF TIME- THE ROUTE GUIDE” for other ATHS events
Thank You Arnold and Jonathan for your continued support of The Steering Column!
Colonel Arnold Briggs
175 Blackmore Pond Road
West Wareham, MA 02576-1427
Cell: 508-317-7726
Home : 508-748-2500
Email: ColonelBriggs@aol.com
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FROM THE EDITOR’S LOG BOOK
Nutmeg Chapter Welcomes New Member Ronald Emanuelson of Middletown, CT
CARES & CONCERNS
Members extend Get Well Wishes to Reggie Phillips who has been hospitalized recently.
We wish Elizabeth Robertson, our Membership person, a speedy recovery after a recent fall.
Looking for any photos, short stories on your restoration project or “road stories” to share with fellow members.
Please give the Editor a call or email, if you prefer, and we can put something together for you. Everyone has a story
that should be shared with your fellow truck enthusiasts! AND if you have any stories to share about Bob West, please
contact Don Arnauckas. We will publish them in the next newsletter.
If you have any information for our Cares and Concerns column, we need to hear from you.
Do you have something to sell, some part for your restoration project that you are looking for? Contact Don at 860274-4758 or dwatrans@sbcglobal.net. You can advertise it for FREE in our newsletter!
Mike’s Mystery Truck? This month’s truck is a 1930 MACK BX Tractor owned by Wooster Express Co. located in
Hartford, CT. Thank You Mike Pietraroia for your continuing contributions to the Steering Column.
Did you know that the Nutmeg Chapter Newsletter is available via e-mail? Photos will be in color in the e-mail
version rather than black and white. Please contact Don Arnauckas to receive The Steering Column’s e-mail version.
Jonathan has posted many wonderful photos of trucks at the York, PA show on our Facebook page. Check it out!
Also, go to the ATHS website for videos and photos of the York Convention & Show events!
Jon is looking for assistance in writing the Nutmeg Chapter’s history for the website. If you are one of our
long-time members, you can be of help. Contact Jon, he will be happy for your help.
IF your mailing label is marked in red and does not state 2015; that means we have not received your dues
for 2015. Please mail you membership dues ($10) today or see Elizabeth Robertson at the Club Booth at the
Brooklyn Truck Show! Thank you.
The Nutmeg Chapter Of The American Truck Historical Society Membership Application
***MEMBERSHIP DUES ARE UPDATED ON YOUR ADDRESS LABEL*** Renew for 2015 Now !
$10 PER YEAR ~~~ SEND YOUR DUES TO MEMBERSHIP CHAIRPERSON, ELIZABETH ROBERTSON, NUTMEG CHAPTER,
ATHS, P.O. Box 373., WILLINGTON, CT 06279; Phone: 860 429-3451 OR E-MAIL Elizabeth at historiliz@aol.com
IS THIS A NEW MEMBERSHIP_________________________ RENEWAL__________________________ __ _ ____
NAME ______________________________ _____
___ _____
SPOUSE’S NAME_________________________________________
MAILING ADDRESS __________
_
________________________________________
CITY ___________________________________
________ State ____ ________Zip/Postal Code
Email_________________________________________
In what form do you wish to receive The Steering Column?
Yes
_ _____
_ (Only Used For Important Notification)
Hard Copy
_____ E-Mail ____
Phone Number (________)________ _______________ Cell Phone (____ ___)_
Are you a Veteran?
___
_____
___
___ _
__
No____
IF YOU OWN A TRUCK (S) ENTER INFO HERE AND ON AN ADDITIONAL SHEET:
MAKE _________
_____MODEL ______
______YEAR____
____
NUTMEG CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN TRUCK HISTORICAL ESTABLISHED IN 1983 PUBLISHES THIS NEWSLETTER, EMAIL: yeomansjon1@gmail.com.
ATHS BYLAWS STATE THAT LOCAL MEMBERS MUST ALSO BE NATIONAL MEMBERS IN GOOD STANDING .
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