The LeMay Annual Show is a tradition in Tacoma filled with history, nostalgia, and a deep love of automobiles. When Harold and Nancy LeMay first held an auto show, it was from their own home. “People would come to see our collection and we would serve them lemonade and cookies on our porch,” said Nancy recently.
Over time, the show became too popular to hold in their home and the LeMay’s knew it was time to move it to a bigger location. Fast forward to 2024 and the 46th LeMay Annual Show will be held on August 31 from 9am-4pm at the LeMay Collections at Marymount (325 152nd St E Tacoma, WA 98445). Always on the last Saturday in August each year, the show is an historical tour and gathering that takes you back more than 100 years. “Many, many vehicles of many kinds are on display, but there are many other collections as well because Harold loved history and he collected more than just cars,” said Nancy.
According to Tono Sablan, Executive Director of the LeMay Family Collection Foundation, “this year we’ll be highlighting the 60th Anniversary of the Mustang, so local Mustang Clubs will be featured.” The event, held on the historic Marymount property in Parkland, is free to the public so people can enjoy the collections as well as the beautiful campus that includes a scenic walk through the sculpture garden featuring Rodin bronze works. In addition to viewing the LeMay Collection, classic car enthusiasts are invited to show their own prized vehicles on the Marymount feature lawn.
While Harold LeMay is no longer with us, Nancy understands the importance of his collection and ensures his dream of keeping the collections together. She’s even added one – a Tucker. “Harold always wanted a Tucker, but when the movie came out, they went sky high.” After he passed, Nancy bought him one and added it to his collection.
Want to view the LeMay Family House Grounds? Catch a bus to their original home from the Marymount Campus on the day of the show for a small fee.
To learn more about the annual show or to find out how your car club can become involved, visit LeMay Annual Show – LeMay Collections (lemaymarymount.org).