History
Established on June 5, 1982, the Southern California Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (SoCal ATHS) is rooted in a rich history of trucking enthusiasts, founded with the leadership of ATHS past president Roland Smith. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2012, the chapter has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from a modest group to a robust community of over 150 members. Encompassing a sprawling region from Santa Barbara to San Diego and Los Angeles to the Arizona border, the majority of our members hail from the greater Southern California counties of Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside.
Logos
Their distinctive logos narrate a tale of Southern California’s evolution. The original logo features a Moreland truck, a quintessential Southern California vehicle built in 1919 in Burbank, cruising through an orange grove, flanked by palm trees, with majestic snow-capped mountains in the background. The updated logo portrays a “Needle Nose Peterbilt,” reflecting the evolving trucking memories and preferences of our present-day Southern California Chapter members.
Member Activities
Dedicated to keeping their members engaged, SoCal ATHS offers a diverse array of activities. Their signature event is the annual antique truck show, held on the first weekend in May at the Southern California Railway Museum. Additionally, every third weekend of the month, the club gathers for breakfast at a local restaurant, fostering camaraderie among members. Throughout the year, they organize outings to explore local attractions and visit private truck collections, creating opportunities for shared experiences and lasting memories. Notably, in 2012, the club proudly hosted the final leg of the ATHS Historical Route 66 tour, coinciding with the famous “Route 66 Rendezvous” in San Bernardino.
Pomona Swap Meet
The SoCal ATHS are gearing up to bring a fleet of iconic trucks that will turn heads and spark conversations. SoCal ATHS members will be on site to share their wealth of knowledge, swap stories, and answer questions about the trucks on display. It’s a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with the passionate individuals who are dedicated to preserving the legacy of American trucks. Whether you’re a seasoned truck enthusiast or just discovering the allure of vintage vehicles, SoCal ATHS is sure to leave a lasting impression as our Featured Car Club. Check them out in person at the March 3rd Pomona Swap Meet, or visit them online!
