I have always been a car guy. Growing up in Hueytown, Alabama, the love for cars and racing just came naturally. Some of my fondest memories are Sunday afternoons with my Dad at BIR (Birmingham International Raceway). We watched the Alabama Gang from the old wooden grandstand. I can still smell the burning fuel and rubber, mixed with hot dogs and popcorn. Those memories, and the fact that my Dad and his twin brother always had some cool cars around, fueled my passion for four wheels.
I bought a 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454 in April of 2002, and a few years later my Dad (Tiger) bought a partially restored 1957 Chevrolet pickup. We started working on it and going to shows together with my wife Rene and my Mom, Mattie. It was always a great family outing, and we met some wonderful people along the way. I still have that bright red 1957 Chevrolet pickup; sometimes it is a difficult decision which vehicle to drive to a show.
How the show began
Cars By The Creek was founded in 2002. We approached the City of Montevallo about using Orr Park as a venue for a car show. The open field near Shoal Creek is a perfect setting for the event.
Over the years, the event has raised money for local schools, cheerleaders, majorettes, and the marching band. Donations have also benefited organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, the Montevallo Athletic Club (MAC) and the Country Cattery Animal Rescue. In 2017 we partnered with the Montevallo Bicentennial Committee to celebrate the city’s 200th birthday, drawing more than 200 cars to the field.
Starting 2018, the show is held in conjunction with the Tinglewood Festival, Alabama’s premier all-woodworking event, featuring chainsaw carving, live music, artists, food, and children’s activities.