The iconic Kenworth truck assembly plant in Chillicothe, Ohio, marked its 50th anniversary with its annual Truck Parade in downtown Chillicothe, celebrating this grand milestone in style.
This year’s event showcased over 60 Kenworth trucks, from brand-new models to vintage classics. Highlights included a 1923 Kenworth, along with trucks from the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, complemented by the latest trucks assembled at the local plant. The assembly plant, which started operations on March 4, 1974, saw its first truck, a Kenworth W900, roll off the line the following day.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary, the parade’s grand marshal, Dan Murphy, led the 1923 Kenworth. Murphy’s long tenure at Kenworth Chillicothe began in 1974. He rose from a production specialist to a section supervisor before becoming a liaison engineer. He retired in May of this year.
The parade’s conclusion featured a T680 high-roof sleeper truck decorated with a commemorative anniversary wrap showcasing historical images of Chillicothe, prominent local landmarks, and memories from past parades. The grand finale was a live performance by The Mantz Brothers band from Nashville, staged atop a trailer pulled by the T680, transforming it into a concert venue.
Jack Schmitt, the assistant plant manager at Kenworth Chillicothe, reflected on the parade’s significance: “The Kenworth Truck Parade is an esteemed June tradition in Ross County. Celebrating our 50-year legacy of producing ‘The World’s Best Trucks’ here in Chillicothe makes this year particularly special. We extend our gratitude to our community and to the drivers who join us each year to make this event a success.”
Leading up to the parade, various events were held at the Kenworth Chillicothe plant for drivers and their families. These included plant tours and a behind-the-scenes look at where many Kenworth trucks are made. On parade day, the plant also hosted an employee event.
In a show of community support, Kenworth Chillicothe partnered with the United Way of Ross County for a 50/50 raffle, raising funds for the organization. Raffle tickets were sold by employees and United Way members, and additional funds were received from VIP sponsorships along the parade route. Altogether, the initiative raised over $37,540 for the United Way of Ross County.
The Kenworth Chillicothe plant, situated on a 120-acre site approximately 50 miles south of Columbus, Ohio, began operations in 1974. Spanning 622,000 square feet, the facility is equipped with advanced technological tools, including robotic assembly and a modern paint facility.
Since October 2021, the multi-level paint facility has employed bell spray head technology to improve paint quality and efficiency. In recognition of these innovations, in 2022, the plant received two Manufacturing Leadership Awards from the National Association of Manufacturers.
Source: The Trucker
Photo: Kenworth
