Chicagoans need not fret over traveling to Detroit, California or Florida in order to visit a world-class Concours d'Elegance. They now have one in their own backyard. The three-day Barrington Concours d' Elegance - Legends and Legacies - will feature, September 14 - 16, 100 of the world's finest and most beautiful historic, classic, sports, and racing cars. The Barrington area is just 40 miles northwest of Chicago and a mere 30 minutes from O'Hare International Airport (not including the 30 minutes it takes to get out of the airport).

It is rather unique, being comprised of seven villages plus expansive horse farms, wide-open prairie vistas, rolling hills, and magnificent country estates. This area has been largely protected from over-development over the past 50 years thanks, no doubt to the demographic makeup of its citizens. But hey, I'm not being sarcastic here, folks: over-development and urban sprawl are the two major curses of North American land use. The Concours will be held on the lawns of the Makray Memorial Golf Club; other events include a morning road rally followed by a special exhibitor tour. Proceeds will benefit charity. Our Nigel Matthews will be one of the judges, journeying all the way from Vancouver BC, so if you attend this delightful Concours d' Elegance, step up and say "hello."

[Photo of 1937 Delahaye 137M by Michael Furman]