Ford Is Bringing The Model T, Mustang, And Jay Leno’s Pickup To D.C.

Building America Together

America's 250th birthday is an important one, a nation deeply ingrained in the culture of not just itself, but of the world as a whole. Ford can claim the same, having been part of the automotive story for more than a century.

Ford's role isn't limited to being one of the longest-standing American brands; its contribution to the innovation of car production and the mass-market model is undeniable. In celebration of both America's and Ford's shared journey, the latter is taking over Union Station.

Driving America Forward

Ford has just announced that starting July 1 through the 14th, a special interactive display will be held at what they call the "front door" of Washington, D.C. Union Station. The automaker calls it Driving America Forward: A Ford Experience, which will be free, open to the public, and open daily.

The exhibit itself will house some of the most iconic cars throughout Ford's century-long automotive journey. One of the cars traces the very beginning: in 1927, after almost 20 years of being the first mass-produced car, the fifteen millionth (and last) Model T rolled off the production line.

Next is the 1964 World's Fair Mustang, a tourist attraction ride (designed by Disney) that would take guests on a 12-minute journey through mankind's advancements. The ride was active for just 2 years, with most of the Mustangs sold off afterward; this car is one of four known to still exist.

Jay Leno also contributed to the festivities by loaning his 1934 Ford Pickup truck for display, which he considers one of his favorite cars in his vast collection. Alongside the truck is a Ford Model A, which replaced the Model T and was designed by Edsel Ford; it quickly became a worthy successor, ushering in a new era for the brand. The 1956 Ford Thunderbird is one of the most recognizable cars ever made; it was a luxury sports car that looked so good it was the hero car in the film American Graffiti. Rounding out the list are the 1951 Ford 8N Tractor, 1954 Ford F-100, 1966 Stroppe Bronco, Baja winner, and the Ford GP Military Jeep.

The Story Continues

Apart from certain automotive icons, Ford has also had a strong history with racing; in fact, it has notched 125 years of racing heritage. Currently, Ford is present in multiple top-tier motorsports disciplines, but its latest venture is a return to Formula One with the Redbull team.

There are also other displays across the station that showcase the different innovation milestones courtesy of the Ford Motor Company. These include different artifacts still preserved from Ford's history.

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