Midwest Sports Car and Hot Rod Show 1950

“Auto Show Set for Playland” – This June 24, 1950 announcement from The South Bend Tribune previewed the upcoming Midwest Sports Car and Hot Rod Show at Playland Park. The article highlighted a diverse lineup of American and foreign vehicles set to be displayed over Labor Day weekend, including Hoosier-built classics, California customs, hot rods, midgets, motorcycles, and sports cars such as the Jaguar XK-120 and Javelin Jupiter. The show promised a rare opportunity for close-up inspection of some of the era’s most glamorous and innovative cars.

The 1950 Midwest Sports Car and Hot Rod Show, was a four-day event held September 1–4, 1950, inside the exhibit building at Playland Park in South Bend, Indiana. The show brought together a diverse display of American and foreign-built vehicles, including sports cars, custom cars, hot rods, midgets, motorcycles, and antique automobiles.

Focus on Hoosier Heritage

One of the show’s highlights was a special section devoted to Hoosier-built cars, celebrating Indiana’s contributions to automotive history. Featured marques included Duesenberg, Stutz, Cord, Auburn, and Elcar. These vehicles were presented by local enthusiasts who had meticulously restored or maintained them in perfect running condition.

California Customs Come to Indiana

The event also featured renowned California custom cars, including the Kurtis-Kraft Studebaker, a custom ride powered by a Studebaker engine and owned by Mrs. William Rodgers of Chicago. This car had previously appeared at the prestigious National Roadster Show in Oakland, California. Another featured entry was the Gardner Studebaker Special, a South Bend-built custom that took home the “Most Magnificent Roadster” award at the 1950 National Roadster Show.

A World-Class Lineup

Alongside the customs and Hoosier classics, the show highlighted a robust lineup of foreign cars, such as the Jaguar XK-120, Javelin Jupiter, MG, Riley, Healey, Simca, and Alfa Romeo models.

A Close-Up Look at Speed and Style

Show organizers promised an up-close inspection of exotic and vintage machines, something few in the general public had experienced before. The exhibition aimed to showcase the style, craftsmanship, and performance of custom and race vehicles, while also promoting an appreciation for engineering excellence.

In addition to custom cars, spectators could admire a wide array of hot rods, midget racers, and Indianapolis race cars, adding a thrilling motorsports dimension to the event.