1934 Duesenberg J-505 Convertible Sedan, Body by Derham Won Best in Show
71st annual joint meet of the HCCA/AACA in Redding, Connecticut, October 23, 2022
by Dick Shappy
A few weeks ago I was contacted by Shenton King of Fairfield, Connecticut and
was invited to the 71st annual joint meet of the Fairfield County Region
Horseless Carriage Club of America and the Antique Automobile Club of America
to be held in Redding, Connecticut at the residence of Dick King, Shenton's
father, on Sunday, October 23rd.
1934 Duesenberg J-505 Convertible Sedan, Body by Derham Won 'Best in Show'
I was honored to be invited to this prestigious event so I reached out to my
good friend, John Lopes, and asked if he would like to accompany me. The
weather forecast for Sunday looked grim as rain was predicted for most of the
day. On Saturday, the 22nd, John and I loaded my 1934 Duesenberg convertible
sedan with roll up windows into the trailer and secured the car for the three
hour ride to Redding. The three hour ride turned into a three and a half hour
ride when we found that commercial vehicles and trailers are not allowed on the
Merritt Parkway.
Shenton King presenting the 'Best In Show' award to Dick Shappy
As we entered the show field, I was greeted by Shenton and was directed to the
front of the show field where the car was afforded top viewing status. The show
field was different from many shows that are held today as the cars were all
pre-war and handpicked by special invitation.
Best In Show award
It was great to be in such exclusive company with early brass and steam cars
and early classic era cars as well. It was a real pleasure to see so many old
friends and their old cars at what we will consider to be the last show of the
year for this area. I was totally surprised to receive the Best in Show trophy
for my 1934 Duesenberg convertible sedan. It was a wonderful day and an amazing
show and I will add that the rain actually held off until minutes after the
final awards were presented.
