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A brief History of R.a.v.e

R.A.V.E. is the culmination of an idea that has been around this area for several years.  The basis of the club is a group of people who have an interest in or own and drive old and unique cars.  It was felt by these people that an organization which promoted their interests could not only attract others with similar interest- but be of some benefit to the populace of the entire are.

The first formal meeting took place at Ed Fabian's house on December 4th, 1978 with charter members: Dean & Noreen Burgess and sons, Ken & Steve, Ed & Linda Fabian, Bill & Carol Gorguites, Bud & Sandra Smith, Bernard Spencer, Herbert Spencer, Lowell & Ellen Wakker, Reg & Fran Wilson.

1979 saw the club become established as a solid organization, February of that year, the first club officers were installed.  They were listed as President - Lowell Wakker, Vice-President - Ed Fabian, Secretary - Carol Forguites, and Treasurer - Fran Wilson.  The February meeting was also established two other important points, the club colors and name.  Rutland Area Vehicle Enthusiasts was the offering of Xal Lanfear, while red, white, and black were selected as official colors.  Club President Lowell Wakker incorporated these colors into the now familiar club logo that appears on members' clothing and cars.  Reg Wilson secured the Metzger truck for the club, and also arranged for the club to co-sponsor, with North American Van Lines, the showing od the Indy Car at the Rutland Mall.

Meetings in 1979 also included the first discussion of promoting a car show in this area to rival or exceed the well established Bennington Show.  Discussion in this area led to the appointment of Tom Patch and Reg Wilson as Coordinators of the efforts, and this incorporation of the club as a nonprofit organization in March of 1980.  The initial Corporate Directors included Lowell Wakker, Bill Forguites, Ed Fabian, Ed Ridlon, and dean Burgess.

With the aid of the Rutland Regional Chamber of Commerce, the first show in July of 1980 was an overwhelming success, drawing over two hundred cars.  the show drew praise from many people including Hemmings Motor News, who proclaimed it one of the best first year shows they had attended. 

For 2024, we will be celebrating our 44th Annual car show, known as the R.A.V.E. Car Show and Flea Market as well as a large craft vendor area, on July 13th and 14th, at the Vermont State Fairgrounds in Rutland, VT.