As one of the first shows to hit the calendar each year, the Silver Springs Ford & Mustang Roundup in Silver Springs, Florida, is a popular launching point for newly finished car projects. Each year we see some of the finest classic Fords, well-cared-for drivers, and interesting trucks, street rods, and custom projects, and every one of the proud owners has a great story to tell about their build. One of the best things about the Silver Springs show is its laid-back approach, with no formal parking by year or class and no formal judging. Whether you're a spectator or participant, you'll always see something interesting and hear all sorts of great stories.
Sponsored by National Parts Depot, Mustang & Fords, and Mustang Monthly, the show encompasses a three-day weekend that includes a Pony Trails cruise, dyno pulls, and a tour of NPD's facility on Friday, with the main show inside the historic Silver Springs Adventure Park on Saturday and Sunday.
The Roundup is a huge draw every year because National Parts Depot (located just down the street from Silver Springs Adventure Park) pays for the first 1,000 cars to register for the show. Each year, registration fills up to that 1,000 mark earlier and earlier (cars after the 1,000 mark pay just $17 for the event, which is still a bargain).
It's great to have a show in January, with more than 1,000 Mustangs and Fords of all years, but that's the benefit of being in Florida. However, the Sunshine State doesn't always live up to its name. There has been some nice weather every other year or so, but usually the weekend can be a bit on the chilly side. For most people, that just means an extra jacket or maybe a hat. Unfortunately, there was some rain in the forecast this year, but that didn't stop the show from having a record-breaking car count of 1,103 cars on Saturday. Although the skies opened up late Saturday afternoon (hurting the returning car count on Sunday), it was still a great show.
We're always amazed during the awards ceremony when NPD's Rick Schmidt asks for the farthest distance traveled, and we hear people calling out "Nevada," "New Jersey," and even "Canada."
While setting up our Factory...
While setting up our Factory Five Cobra replica for display on Saturday morning, I received a call from my wife, who was at the hotel, saying our daughter was ill. This meant I had to leave the park for a brief time. On the way out of the park, I spied Jacksonville, Florida's Bruce Ross and his immaculate '56 F-100, and had to stop for a quick photo. What a sweet-looking truck!
Although you don't need A/C...
Although you don't need A/C in January, having it in August is a lifesaver in Florida. Addd power steering and a dual master cylinder brake setup and you've got a great driver!
Red upholstery and carpet...
Red upholstery and carpet are a grea match with the yellow exterior. A few gauges, gas, brake and a steering wheel are all you need.
After a trip to the corner...
After a trip to the corner drug store, I headed back to the show. While I was gone, Web Producer Greg Clark had taken over some of the photography duties and snagged some really nice rides.
For instance, this '60 Fairlane...
For instance, this '60 Fairlane is something you don't see every day, and Frank McLaughlin of The Villages, Florida, has it in great shape.
Silver Springs is well known...
Silver Springs is well known for its glass bottom boat rides. With the clear spring water, you can see nearly 100 feet below the surface in some places. You can even see the set for the movie "Creature From The Black Lagoon" during your ride.