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Richmond Hill resident to showcase 1963 Studebaker Avanti in NC
Thumwood Studebaker
Richmond Hill resident Art Thumwood stands with his 1963 Studeabker Avanti. Thumwood, who directs the Richmond Hill Historical Society and Museum's monthly Cars and Coffee events, will showcase the rare classic car at Pinehurst (N.C.) Concours d'Elegance. - photo by Photo provided.

Richmond Hill resident Art Thumwood, first place winner of the Avanti Fest in Jacksonville, Florida, will show his 1963 Studebaker Avanti at Pinehurst Concours d’Elegance in Pinehurst, North Carolina, on Saturday.

“I am delighted to be able to showcase the 1963 Studebaker Avanti to other car lovers and refurbishers alike,” he said. “It is very important to keep the rich history and fascination of vintage cars alive while supporting and raising funds for the continuation of the Richmond Hill Historical Society and Museum.”

Thumwood was presented with the first-place prize for his one-of-a-kind 1963 Studebaker Avanti at the Avanti Fest, which was was presented by the Avanti Owners Association International and hosted by the Avanti Club of Florida. The event brought together 27 Avantis over a three-day period with attendees coming from seven U.S. states and Canada.

Thumwood’s 1963 Studebaker Avanti was “sold” to the Promotional Department and used for advertising, has most of the 1964 model updates and is fitted with every available upgrade for its type. Studebaker Avantis were only produced in 1963 and 1964 and were specially ordered, making the models extremely rare. The shocking closing of the Studebaker plant on New Year’s Eve 1963 made the Avanti the “Last Studebaker.”

Thumwood, director of Cars and Coffee, developed the first Cars and Coffee at the Richmond Hill History Museum in 2014, creating a platform for car lovers and avid restorers to showcase their passion while helping to fund significant changes to the Richmond Hill Historical Society and Museum through donations and sponsorships.

 

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