In the Heritage Tourism category, the recipient was Lloyd Ganton, operator of Ye Ole Carriage Shop in Spring Arbor. Ganton was nominated for establishing the largest collection of automobiles made in Jackson in the world. He works every day to be sure that no one forgets Jackson’s manufacturing and labor history. His museum doesn’t just feature Jackson-based vehicle history, but movie/TV collectible vehicles and a completely recreated Coca-Cola diner are also displayed. All who have the privilege to visit Ye Ole Carriage Shop are amazed at the scope of and Ganton’s passion for the collection, which has been curated for over 40 years.
In the Education/Interpretation category, the recipient was the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn for their “Achievement Exhibition, African American Success Stories in Automotive, 1873 – 2022.”
In the Revitalization category, the recipient was the Ford Piquette Plant Museum in Detroit for their first-floor restoration.
Also, the recipient of MotorCities Milestone Award, was William R. "Bill" Chapin. He was a founder of MotorCities and was there when the Automobile National Heritage Area Act was signed by President Clinton in 1998. He signed the articles of incorporation, served as board chair and continues as a member of MotorCities' Leadership Council. Finally, between 2010 and 2017, Chapin served as President of the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn.
In addition, a Champion Award was given to U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow for her support of MotorCities over the years, but in particular for her introduction and championing of the National Heritage Area Act in Congress, which was signed into law earlier this year.
Visit Detroit was the Presenting Sponsor for the Gala. General Motors was a Founding Partner/Award of Excellence Sponsor. The UAW International Union was the Michigan Auto Heritage Day Sponsor. Ford House was an Award of Excellence Sponsor. Supporting Sponsors included Albert Kahn Associates, Choose Lansing, Destination Ann Arbor, and The Henry Ford. Event Sponsors included Doeren Mayhew, Don Nicholson Enterprises, Gilmore Car Museum, Grigg Graphics, and Project Arts and Ideas. Dore Productions was an In-Kind Sponsor.
About MotorCities NHA:
Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2023 and headquartered in Detroit, the MotorCities National Heritage Area Partnership is a nonprofit corporation that is part of the National Heritage Area System of the National Park Service, serving 16 counties representing a population of over 6.5 million. Its mission is to preserve, interpret and promote the region’s rich automotive and labor heritage while enabling, supporting and respecting its diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. Regional programs inspire residents and visitors with an appreciation for how the automobile changed Michigan, the nation, and the world. Each year, MotorCities generates $489.7 million in economic impact, supporting 5,343 jobs and producing $40 million in tax revenue in Michigan. Over its 25-year history, MotorCities has awarded more than 300 grants for a total investment in local programs of more than $1.7 million. Find MotorCities on the web at www.motorcities.org; also visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/motorcities and follow them on Twitter/Instagram: @MotorCities.