The story of our automotive industry, as told through its historical records and artifacts, is a huge resource.
Used properly, these materials can:
- Help Michigan revitalize its local communities,
- Inspire educators and students throughout the country,
- Positively impact local businesses,
- Encourage tourism, and
- Assist auto hobbyists and researchers.
It has been proven time and again that the past achievements of the auto industry have aroused curiosity, generated travel, encouraged hobbyists and attracted potential workers.
Unfortunately, our history, our artifacts, buildings, and the knowledge garnered from our past is eroding quickly. While many professionals are working tirelessly to manage and protect many of these records, the recent retrenchment of the industry has placed huge stress on their efforts. As a result, much of our history is in danger of loss due to theft, unscrupulous sale, foolish divestment, and worse, simple benign neglect. Once gone from the public trust, they may be impossible to recover.
It doesn't have to be this way. Many organizations can help in the preservation, but right now, efforts are fragmented or under funded or unaware of others who could help in this endeavor. The Automotive History Preservation Society is prepared to work to bring the efforts of these diverse groups together and focus and harness the energy of these groups.
For example, these historical documents and artifacts qualify for substantial federal grants to collect, inventory and preserve them. All that is needed is a cogent plan and a dedicated group to file the paperwork and then manage the process.
The Automotive History Preservation Society is such a group. But we are not just about getting grants money - we are about gathering together all the organizations and people who are affected or can benefit from the industry's history and welding them into a powerful force to ensure that the State of Michigan and the people of the United States reap the benefit of these rich resources. Learn about us - join us - help us! Download our information packet - by clicking the "Read More" button. |