The Early Bird Swap Meet was simply known as the Model T Club Swap Meet. This
event was originally held in different member's garages. We soon outgrew
this format and in 1965 we held the 1st. swap meet at Stacker Stables in Spanaway,
Washington on President's weekend in February. Founding member, Hans
Sjoboen was the official announcer and he preceded his announcements by starting
with a "Cockle Doodle Do". Being the first Swap Meet of the year thus
the term "Early Bird" was born. Several years later the swap meet became
known as the Early Bird. This name change was a reflection of the changes
taking place within the hobby for all makes and models not just Model T's.
Model T parts can still be found at the swap meet along with Classic, Street
Rod, High performance and Antiques and Collectables. 1980 the membership
moved the Swap Meet to the Puyallup Fairgrounds and attendance has grown every
year since. We now have vendors from all western states and Canada.
The Tacoma Model T Club is a non-profit organization and profits from the swap
meet are used in the area communities for Youth Activities, Charities, Food
Banks and Youth Scholarships with emphasis on students seeking a career in the
automotive field. The Tacoma Model T Club has won the prestigious "Eagle
One" award three years for being the most charitable car club in America.
Thank you for supporting our swap meet and organization. |
