In another look at local automobile history, we note an event in April of 1934 sponsored by the New Westminster Rotary Club and held in Queen's Park Arena. This was proudly proclaimed this city's "first auto show."
Because this was a new event, other items and features helped draw attendance. A major ad lays it all out: "the show will feature displays of the new 1934 automobiles by local dealers, a fashion parade of the latest creations for spring and summer, and exhibits by the automobile accessory, radio, refrigerator and electrical appliance dealers."
The 1934 automobiles were the stars of the show. "Today's automobile is more than ever tomorrow's vehicle - in looks, in comfort, in speed, in driving economy. To appreciate it you must see it."
The auto dealers participating in the show presented extensive ad copy in the paper pushing feature after feature to attract those who might have an interest in the
cars. Trapp Motors told of the McLaughlin Buick and its "floating ride" as well as their Buick's "gliding ride." Fraser Motors explained how "Chevrolet Gives Revolutionary Value." Fogg Motors gave "100 Reasons Why You Should Own a New Ford."
The Columbia Garage said that the wheels of their Dodges "make roads smooth as billiard tables." CC Brown Motors drew attention with articles about the new Plymouths that would be at the show and the years of research that led to the "Chrysler Airflow Cars." Pacific Motors wanted everyone to be aware of their stock of new model Hudson and Terraplane cars.
The Rotary Club, sponsors of the auto show, were able to achieve one of their charitable aims. An ad for the auto show noted attendance would "Help the Rotarians help the underprivileged children at the fresh air camp."
The Queen's Park Arena event was opened by Mayor Fred Hume, and, in an interview, he thanked the club and local businesses for their efforts with "the first New Westminster automobile show ... the scale upon which it is to be presented, its magnitude and importance bring credit to the Royal City."
He also added a comment which, in our present day life, would not be met with an overall positive reaction. He said: "Those of us who have been privileged to watch the progress of the motor car from its earliest days, appreciate more perhaps, than the younger generation, what a marvellous influence it is in our everyday life and how it has bettered the conditions for millions of people."
The role of women in the new auto age was also discussed.
In one article: "The modern woman has not only become a potent factor in the buying of motor cars, she has become a very strong influence in their making."
