{FORGED?} RE AMC Clubs, pt 1

[dap@xxxxxxxxxx]

{Split into several messages because of size)

Oh Boy,

I most generally try to stay out of these but this one is just asking for a comment. I go waaay back in AMC club history.  I joined the Nash Club in 1973 and then AMO a little later.  I was actually one of the early editors for AMO.  I gotta tell you guys that are much newer to the AMC club scene that were not there in the 70s and were not part of the behind the scenes crap you will not nor can not ever understand why us old timers feel the way we do.  Try as hard to forgive and forget now nearly 20 years later it all comes back every time I attend a meet.  I have been a member of all of the National Clubs except Jock's at one time or another but all the behind the scenes crap was just too much.  This is my history of why this hobby is what it is today. I realize I am only one member, but I know my feelings are not unique.

Nash Car Club:  first attempt at a national club. (OK there was a Hudson club, too).  When the suggestion was made at the national meetings to include AMCs newer than 1957 that idea was shot down on several occasions.  Thus the fracture begins.  This club will only recognize Nash cars and, oh by the way, AMC cars including Hudson, Rambler and Mets  1955-57  (plus the remaining Mets until all were sold... 1960 maybe??).  This club is run by group of elected officers. Basically a very family friendly club.  Everyone feels welcome. No completitive judging, just don't bring the newer cars on the show field. (OK to admire them in the parking lot, though)

AMX club.  Basically one leader for one set of cars 1968-1970 AMX. Fair enough.  You knew what you were getting from the get go.  No surprises here.

AMO..  comes along to fill the gap of cars built after 1957, but will recognize cars built before 1957, but not the old Nashes and Hudsons.  This club has a bd of directors and elected officers.  After a few years to mature it was then run by one person for an eternity, albiet with an everchanging bd of directors.  Also, this became a very performance oriented club where many owners of "Nash" type cars felt unwanted and cars unappreciated.  If the car didn't have a V8 (preferably a 401) and mag wheels, you best leave it at home.  (This was never stated officially, but is the feeling of many owners of this type of car).  Main goal...  take over control of the AMX club. This became a very arogent club.  Basically, at national events especially, if you ain't a member with an AMO badge on your car, stay out of our way.  (Thank goodness all the local clubs didn't always feel this way or show this arrogance)



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