The ACD travelers toured the Syracuse area, enjoying what the community had to offer which makes them come back every year. Photos by Elisa Walker.

SYRACUSE — About 35 older cars, all Auburns and Cords, came through Syracuse to tour the local area from lakes and boats to Nappanee and Amish Acres. Properly known as the Hoosier Tour, the drivers had traveled from Auburn though many were from all across the country including New Jersey, Missouri and Pennsylvania. For the past 42 years, people have been coming together to bond over their appreciation for old cars and to travel.

“We go around Ohio, Indiana and Michigan with the group to promote the Auburn Cord Duesenberg, or ACD, Festival which is Labor Day weekend in Auburn,” explained Hoosier Tour Leader Troy Ackerman. “It gets the word out about the festival but is also an opportunity for car owners to drive and form camaraderie. This has been going on for 42 years, so friendships have developed from it.”

The friendships born from common interest lets the easy-going drivers joke and have fun, often resulting in them honking when they pass each other, going their separate ways to eagerly explore the area. While some people independently became fascinated with older cars, Cameron Petersen, Mo., grew into the interest through his father, who was a participant of the Hoosier Tour. Petersen has now taken part of the tour for 17 years.

Not everyone has their own vehicle, so many connect and get rides with friends to participate which was what Petersen did until he was able to buy his own vehicle. He proudly drives with the group, but he isn’t opposed to hitching a ride in a rumble seat every now and then.

“We’re just one big family,” commented Kay Metzler, Greenwood.

As many of the drivers are boaters, they truly appreciate the Syracuse area and lake culture. After spending three days in the local area, they head back to Auburn where car shows, auctions, a banquet, a parade and much more will take place from Friday to Sunday.

To many, Auburn is the classic car capital of Indiana which is why there are many spectators present for the whole festival. For classic car enthusiasts the ACD Festival is a fun first-hand experience to have.