The iconic Lions Club concession trailer that has served popcorn, snow cones, cotton candy, hot dogs, bottled water, candy bars and hot chocolate to the community for over 50 years is retiring.Â
The 1938 Pierce-Arrow modified travel trailer purchased by the Lions Club in 1970 has been a part of the Wapakoneta area in recent years at the WHS Fun Days, Eagles Club Family Picnic, Wapakoneta Halloween parade, Buckland Memorial Day parade, Otterbein St. Marys Fish Fry, Farm Bureau picnic and private parties.Â
Its history over the years includes serving at the Wapakoneta Lions Club GoCart Races, Auglaize Acres picnic, local football games, swim meets and the 25th anniversary of the Neil Armstrong Airport.Â
Pierce-Arrow was an American automobile manufacturer based in Buffalo, New York, which was active between 1901 and 1938.Â
It was known for its expensive luxury cars. With car sales plummeting during the depression, the company began manufacturing commercial trucks, fire trucks, motorcycles, bicycles and camp trailers.Â
Camp and travel trailers were built between 1936 and 1938, with approximately 450 to 525 manufactured. Three models were offered.Â
At 19 feet, the Lions Club trailer was the longest made. It was also one of the first travel trailers to offer brakes.Â
The trailer was modified over the years to improve the variety of concessions offered and was maintained in top shape by the membership, including Lion Stan Maxson’s SOHIO Service station. Lions Club member Howard Romshe was the first caretaker of the concession trailer. Â
Successive members Ralph Shoup, Bob Eisert, and, presently, Frank Heffner have chaired the concession service.Â
These members coordinated work crews, purchased supplies, scheduled events, and found storage for the trailer during the winter months.Â
The Lion’s Club’s trailer was a fixture in our community for many years, so it is appropriate to give a public sendoff as it is retired.Â
