Few things connect a driver to an automobile quite like a manual transmission. For generations, shifting gears, operating a clutch and listening to an engine were essential parts of driving. From early automobiles to American muscle cars and modern sports cars, manual transmissions have played an important role in automotive history.
MAYNARDVILLE, TN — The Union County Chamber of Commerce and Union County Government are bringing back a beloved holiday tradition with the revival of the Union County Christmas Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 28, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Union County Courthouse in Maynardville.
The community is invited to gather for an afternoon and evening of Christmas festivities, family-friendly activities, local entertainment, and holiday cheer as Union County kicks off the Christmas season together.
The history of the American automobile industry includes many brands that once played an important role but eventually disappeared. One of those brands was Rambler, a name associated with practical, affordable and innovative automobiles. Although Rambler is no longer produced, its history remains an important part of the automotive industry.
When the Edsel was introduced in 1957, Ford Motor Company believed it had created a car that would become one of America’s most successful new automobiles. Instead, the Edsel became one of the most famous unsuccessful gambles in automotive history. Although the Edsel disappeared from production after only a few years, its unusual styling, innovative technology, and place in American automotive history have made it a highly collectible classic car today.
In Union County, Tennessee, motorsports are more than just a weekend pastime. Its part of the community's identity. Whether it's a Friday night spent at the drag strip, a Saturday evening under the lights at a dirt track, or afternoon at a local cruise-in, racing has connected families and friends across generations.
Make plans now to join us for one of Union County's most anticipated community events as Thunder in the Park returns to Wilson Park on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A Journey through History, Heritage and the American Spirit
In 2026, America celebrates two remarkable milestones that highlight our nation’s rich history and enduring spirit. The year marks the 100th anniversary of Historic Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” as well as the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Together, these anniversaries offer an opportunity to reflect on the people, places and events that have shaped our nation and inspired generations of Americans.
The Chevrolet W engines mark the birth of Chevrolet’s big-block performance era and stand among the most legendary powerplants in American automotive history. Produced from 1958 through 1965, the W-series engines were bold, innovative and brutally powerful for their time. Long before the famous 396, 427, and 454 Mark IV big-blocks took over drag strips and racetracks, the W engines had already established Chevrolet as a serious performance contender.
The Ford Starliner stands as one of Ford Motor Company’s most ambitious and performance-focused designs of the early 1960s. Produced for only two model years, 1960 and 1961, the Starliner was Ford’s bold attempt to merge cutting-edge styling, aerodynamics, and big-block power into a full-size production car. Developed during the height of Detroit’s philosophy to “race on Sunday and sell on Monday,” the Starliner was intended to dominate both the showroom floor and the racetrack.
The Thunder Road Car Show & Swap Meet took place on Saturday, March 21, in Maynardville, with an incredible turnout that brought together car enthusiasts from near and far for a day celebrating automotive culture, community and family fun. This year’s event showcased 262 registered cars, from vintage classics to modern muscle, attracting an estimated 1,500+ spectators who strolled through the show all day, taking in the sights, sounds and energy of the event.