WFFMM-NAAM Conference 2022

This panel discussion will discuss previously uncharted automotive cultures to identify the pioneers who established the industry around the world. How will this change how museums change the way they present history that may require revision to accurately represent a time or culture? Neal Bascomb (speaking from off-site) will present the pre–WWII Grand prix culture to share the story of and American heiress, a driver of Jewish ancestry, and the challenge to compete against the Nazi-sponsored Mercedes Grand Prix juggernaut. Ed Welburn will describe his efforts to bring the story of a Colored Speedway Association driver to the big screen. Brian Baker from the Automotive Hall of Fame will share recent efforts to seek out the untold stories of automotive history and elevate these individuals for induction into the Hall of Fame. This discussion will cover how museums are having to pivot to seize the opportunity to share many stories that have not been shared because of the change in culture that the early 21st century has presented. Discovering racecars, and stories previously reported only in publications targeting limited communities is part of this discovery process. Finally, we will discuss the little-known pioneers of the automobile in cultures such as the Soviet Union, South Africa, and South America. This promises to be an eye-opening conversation that will challenge us as museums to reconsider the scope of what we preserve and present to our audiences.