Celebrating the trucks that built Route 66

“ATHS is proud to be an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration,” said Courtney Cesar, ATHS convention organizer. “There’s no better way to celebrate Route 66 than with the trucks that helped build it. As a historic hub along Route 66, Springfield provides the perfect backdrop for a gathering that honors the legacy and evolution of trucking.”

The weeklong event begins June 2, when trucks arrive at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, with the main show scheduled for June 4-6. Springfield, a historic stop along Route 66, is a fitting host city as the iconic highway reaches its centennial. The event is recognized as an official attraction of the Route 66 Centennial Celebration.

What to expect at the show

Attendees can view hundreds of trucks, from meticulously restored classics to rare working rigs, each representing decades of craftsmanship and trucking history.

“Each of these trucks has its own story and craftsmanship,” said Peter Wild, ATHS convention committee chair. “The convention provides a welcoming space for all trucking enthusiasts to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and share the passion for trucking history during the show and at special events throughout the week.”

Activities beyond the trucks

The convention offers educational sessions, hands-on demonstrations, vendor exhibits, and an evening light show featuring the trucks. Attendees can also enter a raffle for a chance to win VIP tickets to a NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway in September.

Visitors can explore Springfield’s Route 66 landmarks, including the Route 66 Visitor Center, local museums, and roadside attractions such as the World’s Largest Fork and the Birthplace of Route 66 sign.

Thanks to volunteers and sponsors

ATHS credits its volunteers, sponsors, and supporters for making the event possible. Sponsors include Cummins, Mack Trucks, Kenworth, Vander Haag’s, Iowa 80, CAT Scale, Truckomat, Clark Freight, Reiselt’s Machine Works, Gully Transportation, and the Sercombe family.

More information and registration details are available here or through the ATHS Connect mobile app.

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“Autocar is proud to support ATHS and celebrate the legends who paved the way for our industry,” said James Johnston, president of Autocar. “We look forward to meeting truck enthusiasts, showcasing our history, and honoring the visionaries who built the foundation for trucking.”

The ceremony takes place on October 22 at ATHS headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., and offers drivers, industry professionals, and truck enthusiasts alike a chance to celebrate the pioneers whose work still influences trucking today.

2025 Hall of Fame Inductees

This year’s class includes four individuals who made a lasting mark on trucking:

• Joseph A. Morten and Joseph W. Morten – Father and son behind Great West Casualty Company, they set new standards in trucker-focused insurance, providing innovative coverage and top-notch service for motor carriers.
• Roy Carver – Founder of Bandag Inc. in 1957, Carver grew the company into North America’s largest commercial tire retread operation. Bandag went public and was later acquired by Bridgestone in 2007.
• Lewis Semple Clarke – Co-founder of The Autocar Company, Clarke introduced key automotive innovations like the left-handed steering wheel and shaft drive. His engineering vision helped shape early American trucks and left a lasting legacy.

These inductees join a prestigious list of past honorees, including Leland James of Freightliner, Harry Kent and Edgar Worthington of Kenworth, and Earl and Lillian Congdon of Old Dominion Freight Lines.

“These inductees represent the spirit of innovation and determination that built trucking into the backbone of America,” said John Gravley, ATHS executive director.

Event Details and Truck Display

The ceremony starts at 1:30 p.m., followed by cake, coffee, and guided tours of the ATHS facility at 10380 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, Mo., 64153.

Autocar Trucks, recognized as the oldest surviving motor vehicle brand in the Western Hemisphere, will also feature a special display of historic trucks from ATHS members. Truck owners interested in participating in the display can contact ATHS at 816-891-9900 or events@aths.org.

Source: The Trucker

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A Closer Look at the 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton

“This 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton is a very early Kenworth model,” remarked the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in a statement. “Most trucks at that time, aside from Macks, Packards and Whites were assembled trucks. This one is no exception.”

At the heart of this vintage marvel is a Buda 4-Cylinder engine, paired with a Cotta 4-Speed transmission and a Timken-manufactured rear axle. While its top speed of 25 mph may sound modest by today’s standards, during its heyday, this truck exemplified cutting-edge engineering.

“Kenworths are still assembled trucks today,” the museum further explained, emphasizing the brand’s enduring commitment to its foundational approach to manufacturing.

Kenworth’s Origin Story

The story of Kenworth began in 1912 in Portland, Oregon, with the establishment of Gerlinger Motor Car Works by brothers George and Louis Gerlinger. Initially a retailer of both automobiles and trucks, the company released its first heavy-duty truck, the Gersix, in 1915. The business eventually moved to Tacoma, Washington, before being acquired by Edgar Worthington and Frederick Kent, who renamed it the Gersix Motor Company.

Kenworth Motor Truck Company came to life in 1923 when Frederick Kent’s son, Harry Kent, and Edgar Worthington officially incorporated the company by combining their surnames. While Kenworth became synonymous with trucks, it also ventured into bus manufacturing early on and began incorporating diesel engines into its vehicles by 1933. The 1925 KS model on display gained popularity among heavy industries like logging in the Northwest.

Unearthing a Rare Treasure

The 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton currently featured in the exhibit comes with an incredible backstory. Found not far from Microsoft’s headquarters in Redmond, Washington, this truck—with serial number 2012—was used by a construction firm to haul dynamite. With its unique combination of hard rubber tires on the rear and pneumatic tires up front, it is believed to be the oldest surviving KS model to date.

The Legacy of the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Bill Moon, the founder of the Iowa 80 Truckstop, envisioned preserving trucking history, which led to the establishment of the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum. Moon’s passion for antique trucks and collectibles fuelled this one-of-a-kind collection, which now showcases rare and significant vehicles.

“We are pleased to be able to share this collection with the general public,” the museum said. “Every truck has a story to tell and can provide a unique glimpse back in time. Many rare and one-of-a-kind trucks are on display. View short films about trucking history in our REO theater which is a great way to learn even more about the trucks of yesteryear.”

More Stars of the “100 Years of Trucking” Exhibit

While the 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton is the highlight, the exhibit also features other industry-shaping vehicles from the same era, such as:

• 1925 International Water Tanker – Boasting a 4-Cylinder, 283-cubic inch engine with a 4¼-inch bore and 5-inch stroke, this tanker reflects the early industrial ingenuity of its time.

Source: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

• 1925 Douglas Well Drilling Rig – A fascinating example of well-drilling equipment mounted on a truck, showcasing the period’s dedication to functional design.

Source: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

Both vehicles provide an additional layer of insight into the engineering marvels that laid the groundwork for modern trucking.

Experience the Exhibit

Whether you’re a passionate trucking enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring historical innovations, the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum’s “100 Years of Trucking” exhibit offers an immersive glimpse into the industry’s origins. Visit to admire the iconic 1925 Kenworth KS 3-Ton and learn about the pioneering machines that shaped the road ahead.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Iowa 80 Trucking Museum

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January

Vintage Trucks of Florida Winter Nationals
When: January 24-25
Where: Sumter County Fairgrounds, Bushnell, FL
Kick off the year at this nostalgic event dedicated to vintage rigs and trucking history. Learn more at VintageTrucksFL.com.

February

Florida Trucking Show
When: February 15-16
Where: Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale, FL
A must-visit for truckers and industry pros in Florida. Discover exhibits, networking opportunities, and more at FloridaTruckingShow.com.

March

Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS)
When: March 27-29
Where: Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, KY
The largest trucking event in North America returns, featuring exhibits, seminars, and the latest industry trends. Learn more at TruckingShow.com.

May

Midwest Pride in Your Ride
When: May 2-3
Where: Tri-State Raceway, Earlville, IA
Celebrate trucking with a mix of show trucks, fun events, and charitable giving. Details are available at MidWestPrideInYourRide.org.

East Coast Truckers Jamboree
When: May 8-10
Where: Kenly 95 Truck Stop, Kenly, NC
Join the festivities at this iconic truck stop. Live music, contests, and camaraderie await. Visit Kenly95.com for more info.

June

ATHS National Convention and Truck Show
When: June 5-7
Where: Alliant Energy Center, Madison, WI
Fans of historic trucks won’t want to miss this massive gathering. Learn more at ATHS.org.

Wheel Jam Truck Show
When: June 5-8
Where: South Dakota State Fairgrounds, Huron, SD
A weekend packed with fun for trucking enthusiasts and families alike. Find out more at WheelJam.com or call 605-353-7340.

Texas Trucking Show
When: June 21-22
Where: NRG Center, Houston, TX
Get insights into trucking products, services, and innovations at this major event. Visit TexasTruckingShow.com.

July

Walcott Truckers Jamboree
When: July 10-12
Where: Iowa 80 Truckstop, Walcott, IA
Celebrate America’s trucking heritage with exhibits, music, and a fireworks display. More details are available at Iowa80Truckstop.com.

August

Carlisle Truck Nationals
When: August 1-3
Where: Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
From custom builds to classic models, this event showcases the best in the trucking world. Visit CarlisleEvents.com for information.

September

Guilty By Association Truck Show (GBATS)
When: September 25-27
Where: 4 State Trucks, Joplin, MO
Wrap up the season at one of the most popular truck shows of the year, hosted by Chrome Shop Mafia. Find all the details at ChromeShopMafia.com.

Why Attend a Truck Show?

Truck shows are more than just events—they’re a chance to immerse yourself in the trucking lifestyle. Whether you’re showing off your rig, learning about new products, or enjoying the camaraderie of fellow drivers, these events make every mile worth it.

Plan ahead, and make 2025 a year of unforgettable trucking memories!

The post Your Complete Guide to 2025 Truck Shows appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The following leaders will be honored as the newest Hall of Fame members:

• Robert Young, ABF

• John Ruan, Ruan Transportation

• Marvin Rush, Rush Enterprises

• Frederick McKinley Jones, Thermo King

“ATHS welcomes its members and the Kansas City community to celebrate with us and enjoy the Hall of Fame induction of four industry greats,” said John Gravley, executive director of ATHS. “We’ll also have a local selection of historic trucks on display, including the OOIDA tour trailer, which is always a crowd favorite.”

The ceremony, which acknowledges individuals whose contributions have left a significant mark on the transportation sector, will commence at 1:30 p.m. Central Time at the ATHS headquarters, situated at 10380 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, MO.

“We are thrilled to honor these pioneers who shaped the transportation industry,” said Tom Mullen, chair of the American Trucking and Industry Leader Hall of Fame. “Robert Young founded ABF, Fred Jones revolutionized truck and rail refrigeration, John Ruan was a leader in transportation logistics, and Marvin Rush established the nationwide dealership chain Rush Enterprises.”

In previous years, the Hall of Fame recognized notable figures such as OOIDA and Dave Nemo in 2021, Bill and Carolyn Moon in 2022, and Harry Kent and Edgar Worthington last year.

Additionally, several other individuals and trucking companies will receive recognition during the event on October 23.

Founded in 1971, the American Truck Historical Society aims to preserve the rich history of trucks, the trucking industry, and its trailblazers. With a global reach, ATHS boasts approximately 15,000 members and 100 chapters spread across 23 countries and all 50 states.

Source: Land Line

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