National Corvette Museum Labor Day Celebration
Official Unveiling of the 1998 Corvette Convertible
August 29-Sept. 1, 1997
The Museum Mission
The Mission of the National Corvette Museum is the celebration of the Corvette's invention, and the preservation of the legendary automobile's past, present, and future. This museum will serve as an educational and research model for all to enjoy. The Corvette--America's only true sports car! An
American legend synonymous with impeccable style, unmatched power, and
classic quality!
Just as the trademark style of Arnold Palmer revolutionized
American sportswear, the Corvette has forever changed the way the world
looks at American cars.
Relive the legend at the National Corvette Museum--the
home of America's only true sports car!
The Inception-A Dream Becomes Reality
The National Corvette Museum Foundation(NCMF) was established in 1988 by the National Corvette Restorers Society to plan the construction of a museum to house classic Corvettes and memorabilia associated with the Corvette. The Chevrolet Motor Division endorses the Corvette Museum concept. The 20-member NCMF board, composed of executives, hobbyists, and businesspeople, has an executive board of eight with final decision-making responsibility.Since the first organizational meeting in November 1988, the board has met semiannually to transform the museum dream into a viable reality. The NCMF secured 33 acres of prime property in Bowling Green, Kentucky, on which the 68,000 square foot museum was constructed. Fronting Interstate 65, the museum setting is akin to the General Motors World of Motion Pavilion of Future World in Epcot Center at Disney World in Orlando, Florida-a design that complements the long-standing image of the Corvette as a superior sports car in a class all its own.
Exhibits and Displays
The museum's exhibits and displays cover all Corvette model years, starting with the birth of the Corvette in 1953 and going beyond the present to futuristic concept Corvettes. All exhibits are not shown simultaneously but, rather, rotated to ensure a fresh, exciting perspective for frequent visitors.From nostalgic settings that stir memories and convey the history of the Corvette mystique to exhibits that focus on the Corvette's development and noteworthy accomplishments, the theme exhibits offer something to titillate every taste.
Classic Beauties
The area devoted to the 1950s, '60s and '70s appeal to those of us who fondly remember drive-in diners, the birth of rock and roll, and the hot new sports car that fired the American imagination! This picturesque panorama of the changing American scene elicit an appreciation of the significant influence the Corvette has exercised over other vehicles.Breaking the Mold
Miniatures, clay models, and design sketches take center stage in the area devoted to styling and design. And courtesy of the "design-your-own-Corvette" area, would-be designers will experience the thrill of auto design with the aid of a computerized interactive modeling, layout, and drafting CADCAM system like those used by today's auto industry designers. Visitors can also learn more about the step-by-step process of the design stage for new Corvette models.
Start Your Engines
The performance and racing area touts the field cars used for racing and winning, and includes big block cars. The Corvettes in this exhibit have been used in auto races for every kind over the years, and make outstanding, exciting display vehicles.Solid Muscle
Chevy muscle cars like the Z28, the IROC, and the Chevelle Mark IV are just a few of the showpieces that spotlight the performance cars Chevrolet has produced over the years.
Special Edition
The specialty Corvette display features concept cars, prototypes, custom models, and one-of-a-kind Corvettes from various eras. This high-interest display illustrates the many faces of the Corvette-which have helped it maintain consistently high popular appeal from its inception.All Systems Go!
The powertrains and systems are presented in a dynamic display of moving components and cutaways that focus on the chassis, engines, transmissions, and vehicle electrical systems behind the power of the Corvette.
A Legend
The Zora Room examines some of the contributions of the legendary Zora Arkus-Duntov, former race car driver and Corvette engineer. In addition to photographs and historical information, this display features a bronze bust of Duntov and also includes samples taken from his drawings and notes, concepts, posters, and memorably quotable quotes!Student Bodies
A main museum attraction is the restoration areas, which provides prepartion space for display cars and serves as a learning center. Seminars will teach students the art of restoration through actual hands-on training in restoration techniques. An answer line is available to help solve problems that arise during personal restoration projects and to answer other inquiries received by telephone or fax.National Corvette Museum
I-65 exit 28
Bowling Green, Kentucky
