Once again Gerald took the time to share some pictures with us.  Bob had some information about the parade. In fact, at some point Bob and Gerald managed to connect (see below pic). From both of their comments, it is safe to say the parade eclipsed the old parade record held by the Colombians. Congrats to all the participated.

Bob writes,”The word was that there were 1106 jeeps in the parade. It went on until 10:30, and there were 35,000 people lining the streets of Butler.”

Gerald writes, “After the concert and I strong storm last night. I’m done. There is always next year. I’ll be better prepared. It’s already on for August 2012. I’m sure it will be even bigger. The parade was what everyone was talking about. It was over the top. The locals lined up deep and main street was full. The official count is 1108, I think. Unofficially 1700. We got the record details will follow.”

Windyhill writes, “Great show! I stopped by the “ewillys” table and saw the brick! lol. We just got home, about a 6 hour trip. I modified my 18 trailer so I could tow two willys as one time, my 3b and my brothers stock 3A for this trip. The parade was great, loved being able to walk down the street after and be able to start at the Bantams go threw the WWII Jeeps,and then threw the 2A’s 3A, 3B’s etc by decade! Saturday we got held up with a trailer bearing so I missed most of the show and shine but we did run my brothers stock 3A and my 3B threw the playground! It rained early Saturday which made for a soggy pack up but all in all a great time and we will return!

Here is Bob’s CJ-3B

Ever see a factory set of 9.00 x 13 high floatation tires?   There was a Navy 3A with an original set.   Wow (btw,
I got alot of comments about the Mini Terras and rims on my Jeep.)

Check out this firepower.

Camp and footlocker

Have you ever seen these bezels? Are they stock? (Ed note: I don’t believe they are stock.  I’ve seen similar ones on Phillipine vehicles that seemed aftermarket.)

Now that’s a trailer.

Random Bantam,  that’s an odd statement, but true at the fest. (BRC-40)

The playground

And that’s a rap. They ran out of shirts at the parade.  Everyone was bummed about that.

Later.

ps. I’m drinking lot’s of coffee today and planning for next year.

I’ve been busy all day … any updates will need to wait until later tomorrow.

Sebastain had a great day at the Festival.  He posted pics in two different locations:

http://flatfenderclubofbutler.wordpress.com/2011/06/08/welcome-32/

http://flatfenderclubofbutler.wordpress.com/2011/02/08/welcome-28/

Meanwhile, Gerald has been working hard peddling eWillys.  In his spare time he’s been enjoying the Festival.  He starts again at 6:30am.

Gerald starting off at 6:30am Saturday:

The set-up

Gerald notes h may have just become you East Coast Rep.  Little does he know that as the East Coast Rep his salary will not be much different than mine.  Did I mention it is a volunteer position Gerald?

The Jeeps

Bantam BRC 40 (not the original bantam, but the third version following the BRC-60 and BRC)

Only this update tonight ….

Gerald reported in just a few minutes ago.  Much fun had by all.  There were jeeps everywhere.  He hasn’t gotten the official parade count, but he said people were rolling in for hours.  Thanks Gerald!

Gerald notes, “Things were great tonight at the BantamFest Jeep Parade.  All I can say is there were hundreds………. here’s a couple shots.  i will get an official count on Saturday.”

The staging lot with the Lost Biscuit (Thanks to Gerald, I’m attending virtually.  Rub me for good luck!)

Registration

They were coming in for hours

Late model line ups

General shot.  It was packed

Main Street in Butler

Finished off with a late night tire change from NDT’s to the Turbines with Mini Terras for Saturday.

Already met some cool people, Maine to Australia.