The New York State Museum is displaying two historical vehicles at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse, NY, through September 1, 2014. The two vehicles, a 1932 Packard Phaeton and a 1967 Lincoln Executive Limousine, were used by New York Governors Franklin D. Roosevelt and Nelson A. Rockefeller, respectively.
“The Board of Regents and the New York State Museum are honored to exhibit two historical vehicles from the Museum’s collections at the Great New York State Fair,” said State Museum Director Mark Schaming. “For the first time at the State Fair, thousands of New Yorkers will have the opportunity to see these two historical cars that transported Governors Roosevelt and Rockefeller across New York State.”
The 1932 Packard Phaeton was purchased in 1932 by Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt for his use in Albany. When Roosevelt was elected to the Presidency, the vehicle became part of the state fleet. Though kept in running condition, it was rarely used after 1942 when Governor Thomas Dewey acquired a Cadillac. In 1982, Governor Hugh Carey transported Queen Beatrix and Prince Claus of the Netherlands in the Packard when they visited Albany.
The 1967 Lincoln Executive Limousine was placed into service for Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller on March 6, 1967. Rockefeller privately purchased an identical vehicle for his use while in New York City. Its amenities included air conditioning, radio, cassette player and television receiver, as well as a sliding window for privacy. The car was used by succeeding governors until 1988.
Earlier this year, both vehicles were on display at the New York International Auto Show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. The display at the State Fair will mark the second time both vehicles are on display together outside of Albany, NY.
The State Museum is a program of the New York State Education Department’s Office of Cultural Education. Located on Madison Avenue in Albany, the Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission is free. Further information about programs and events can be obtained by calling (518) 474-5877 or visiting the Museum website at www.nysm.nysed.gov.
Photos: above, Governor Rockefeller (facing camera) stands beside the Lincoln Continental Lehmann-Peterson limousine in 1967 (courtesy New York State Archives); and below, President Elect Franklin D. Roosevelt seen here with the Packard in late 1932. (courtesy of John A. Cond).
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