Bricklin fans celebrate the made-in-New Brunswick car’s 50th anniversary

**Title: Bricklin Enthusiasts Rev Up Saint John Streets to Celebrate 50-Year Anniversary**
Over the weekend, Water Street in Saint John was turned into a spectacular showcase as approximately 40 iconic Bricklins lined the road, capturing the awe of New Brunswickers of all ages. These unique cars, once produced in Saint John and Minto in the mid-1970s, drew enthusiasts from across the globe to celebrate the 50-year milestone of the Bricklin’s legacy.
One standout feature among the vintage vehicles was the sole black Bricklin with a matching black interior, marking it as a prototype for a model that was never put into production and would have been named the Chairman. Steven Stratton, the proud owner of this exceptional piece of automotive history, journeyed all the way from Virginia for the special event.
Holding the position of Chairman of Bricklin International, a prestigious club boasting a membership of around 240 fervent devotees dating back to 1976, Stratton’s passion for Bricklins was ignited at a tender age of 13 when he first laid eyes on the distinctive gull-wing doors of a Bricklin in Virginia. Fast forward to today, with two Bricklins in his possession, including the coveted Chairman model, Stratton remains committed to preserving and promoting these unique vehicles.
The gathering served not only as a reunion for Bricklin enthusiasts but also as a reminder of the collective effort needed to ensure the ongoing maintenance and enjoyment of these cherished cars. Stratton emphasized the importance of keeping the Bricklin community connected and the cars in prime condition to continue their journey on the roads for years to come.
Contributing to the preservation of the Bricklin heritage is the dedicated work of mechanics such as Terry Tanner, the former head of manufacturing for Bricklin in New Brunswick. Tanner’s relentless pursuit to enhance the original design of the Bricklin resulted in significant improvements to the vehicle, ensuring its longevity and performance for the present generation of owners.
As the event concluded with a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of the Bricklin, including renaming the historical Bricklin factory as The Bricklin Building, it was evident that the spirit of innovation and camaraderie amongst Bricklin aficionados continues to thrive.
For Lars Schwarz, a journalist with CBC New Brunswick, capturing the memorable moments of this extraordinary event was a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bricklin and its passionate community. For more fascinating stories and updates, contact Lars Schwarz at lars.schwarz

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