Thurs., May 3, 2007 – Here’s yet another from my favorites file.

Shown here is what I’m told is the first large-scale gathering of classic Minis in the U.S., an event that took place in 1973, in Reno, Nevada. I’m told participants came from far and wide, including a now-friend of mine from Seattle.

The last Minis sold in the United States were mid-’67 models, when Mk2 models briefly appeared. After some six years, the classic Mini community was already building.

My first Mini (see article Feb. 11, 2004) was apparently there too, according to its long-time previous owner. No trailer queen – it was driven there, I’m told.

I’m not sure how the word got out so far and wide, but this gathering marked the start of what we now call “Mini Meets.”

As mentioned in a previous article or two, this year’s “Mini Meet West” will be held in Oregon, and “Mini Meet East” will be in Tennessee.

Kudos to all the host Mini clubs – and a score of volunteers – who make these memorable events happen!

For a larger image, Click Here or go to:

http://www.minimeetwest.com/images/mmw73pic.jpg

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And, if you know more about the ’73 meet, we’d love to hear from you…