We’ve written before about the incredible Simeone Foundation Museum in Philadelphia. Unlike other car museums, this one dedicated almost exclusively to historic racing machines. In fact, endurance and road racing is the main focus. Most of the vehicles in the Simeone collection have significant competition history. And perhaps more importantly, they are displayed largely unrestored in as-last-raced condition.
One of the more unique aspects that sets the Simeone apart is its insistence on exercising the collection regularly. Once a month (weather permitting), a selection of vehicles leave their displays for the presentation area. There they’re started up before the gathered crowds, then taken through the building to the museum’s back lot for thrilling demonstration drives. Attendees not only get to see these historic vehicles up close, they get to experience their full wonder – sounds and smells included.
Demo Days
We’ve been to the Simeone for past Demo Days and they’re always thrilling. Over Memorial Day weekend we were there delivering a talk on summer car care. The museum was presenting a review of the Fairmount Park Motor Races run on Philadelphia’s city streets in the early 20th century. On display before us were three examples of vehicles that raced in that era – a Stutz, a Mercer, and a National.
After an insightful historical review of the early days of racing in Philadelphia, the museum’s caretaker Kevin Kelly hand-cranked the three cars and led them to the back for their ceremonial laps and a Q&A session with attendees. The scene is unlike any modern parking lot get together as the three Brass Era sportsters sat in repose after their brief runs.
Should you visit Philadelphia, you owe it to yourself to check out a Demo Day presentation at the Simeone Foundation Museum. There is simply nothing else quite like it.
