Annual Car Show

Sixteen years ago the Thomaston Police Department was in search of a way to raise money for its Police Explorers program when Officer Terry Hawley came up with an idea to hold an auto show. The department's Main Street Summer Cruise was born and has been an annual event ever since. The event began 16 years ago in the rear parking lot of the Town Hall and has grown to the entire downtown area. The annual Main Street Cruise is usually held in September from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Admission to the event is free to both observers and entrants. Awards are handed out around 5 p.m..

The Main Street Cruise has become more than just an auto show or a way to raise money for the Explorers program but a way to honor the man who founded the event - Terry Hawley. The 2007 Annual car show and every show to follow will be in the memory of Officer Terry Hawley, who was its founder. Although Hawley has passed on the Police Department has made sure that his name will forever live on through the Main Street Cruise. The event's Best in Show trophy will always sport the name of Terry Hawley.

Whether one comes out to honor Hawley or just to take a look at some classic automobiles,  it's important that everyone come out and lend their support as the Police Explorers significantly count on this fund-raiser. The Explorers program has been around in town since 1971 and the Police Department wants to keep it up and running for a long time to come. Much of the money comes from the event's annual T-shirt sale. Incoming funds are put directly toward purchasing uniforms, safety equipment and the group's annual trip to the Explorers' mock police academy.  

To view more pictures visit the Car Show Gallery.