The Foothills Model T Ford Club was first established in 1971, when founding members met in a home kitchen to discuss the idea of forming a Model T Ford club. The club is approaching it’s 50th anniversary, so it appears important that we document our historic information for future generations of Model T enthusiasts. One of the club goals is to keep the “Ford T “alive, and on the road with continuing club events and activities.
Early members enjoyed “Box Socials “, “Progressive Breakfasts”, & packed bag lunches for day touring events. Some years “campouts” were enjoyed by members. Early members made numerous parts required to replicate parts needed for restorations. These items included body panels and.numerous metal fabricated parts, as well as various wooden components needed to restore the vehicles. The North American restoration parts availability was only limited, and not nearly as extensive as it is today. While some members today still fabricate. and duplicate original parts, the “T” hobby has certainly benefited from the availability of industry produced reproduction parts.
Today Foothills Model T Ford is a member and part of the American based MTFCA, with approximately 95 local members, and about 200 vehicles in Western Canada. Monthly meetings are held the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Aerospace museum in Calgary. The club has an executive, with well managed financial resources, and numerous events held throughout the summer months. The club has regular get togethers held throughout the year, and an annual safety inspection to ensure all vehicles used on the summer tours meet proper safety requirements.
Club members are a vibrant, enthusiastic bunch of ol’ farts that socialize on a regular basis by attending swap meets, garage tours, and annual Christmas parties. As a recent member, I have enjoyed several years of meeting, and enjoying the knowledge, companionship and enthusiasm of Foothills T members.
Written by Rod Wallace