Despite an early end due to thunderstorms, Hartwell’s 17th annual Cars and Guitars festival on May 15th attracted a large crowd with vintage cars, live music performances, and family-friendly activities.
With local Hartwell residents and out-of-town visitors, Cars and Guitars broke a record this year with 161 cars for everyone to see. Attendees were able to see many different styles and variations of older cars, such as a 1956 Ford pickup truck and even a 1965 Volkswagen bus.
One person in particular seemed to grab the most attention. Mike Momb, a South Dakota resident, travels the country to different car events to show off his dark maroon 1950 Chevrolet Pickup.
Since its purchase in 1976, the pickup truck has evolved from its initial role as a farm vehicle to its current status as a perfect traveling companion accompanying Momb to car shows. When asked why he travels for these events, Momb responded, “It’s fun! Car people are great people!”
The truck also holds sentimental value for Momb and his family. Not only was it the car that drove Mike and his wife’s first child home, but it was also their daughter’s favorite truck. Unfortunately, she passed away just before her 13th birthday due to cystic fibrosis, and since then, he has chosen to never get rid of the relic.
Similar to Momb, many participants attach sentimental value to their cars, allowing them to gather and reminisce on memories associated with similar vehicles they’ve owned.
The cars weren’t the only ones keeping those in attendance on their toes; with music playing throughout the streets at the beginning of the event, everyone was able to listen to classic songs while admiring the classic vehicles. Kona Ice and bouncy houses were set up for families with younger children to enjoy. Additionally, Local Hartwell shops and restaurants had vendors for passersby and the Hart County Community Theatre was also able to advertise its upcoming productions.
When thunderstorms began around 1 o’clock that afternoon, the cars portion of the event had to finish early. The live music, however, continued as people took cover from the rain.
Southern Hart Brewery hosted musician Steve Heimberger at 12:30 p.m. As he played classics of many different genres on his acoustic guitar, Heimberger offered the customers a calming yet fun energy in the crowded restaurant.
There were other opportunities to hear different live bands perform around the square, such as the Lake Hartwell Bluegrass Band. The Hartwell native band performed inside Common Ground from 1 to 3 p.m. since the rain didn’t allow them to perform on the coffee house’s patio. They played a mix of country and folk mountain music with a violin, banjo, and guitar.
The Cars and Guitars event turned out to be a triumph thanks to the Hart County Chamber of Commerce staff, board, and volunteers, providing Hartwell residents with a Saturday afternoon filled with joy and a spirit of community despite thunderstorms sweeping in.