Have you ever heard of a Gioto Bizzarrini? Pointed out a Pierce Arrow? Or cruised in a Pontiac? These are types of cars, featured in our display, that have vanished from the automobile scene over time. This year’s 9^th annual Auburn Heights Invitational spotlights Vanished Marques, “extinct” cars, some of which you may remember and some you will discover for the first time.

The event, now offered in-person (with safety protocols in place) and online, offers a glimpse of some of the finest early automobiles from the last century. Visitors to Auburn Heights can explore the newly renovated Marshall Steam Museum and discover what life was like when the automobile was a novelty. Exclusive online content, available to all ticketholders, includes rare interviews, behind-the-scenes videos and special programs. Timed entry, masks and social distancing restrictions will be in place, and prospective in-person attendees should visit our website for more information.

Guests are encouraged to come hungry and ready to bid or buy raffle tickets. Local food will be available from On the Roll food truck, as well as ice cream from Woodside Farm Creamery. Beer from Dew Point Brewing of Yorklyn, DE, will be available for purchase along with wine selections from Total Wine. The day’s activities also include a silent auction and raffle, featuring items for all interests, including a private garden and estate tour of Winterthur, special themed baskets, gift certificates and more — all benefiting the Joseph Boxler Education Fund, which supports educational programs at the Marshall Steam Museum.

All proceeds from the event support the Marshall Steam Museum and Friends of Auburn Heights (FAH), a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and operating the extraordinary collections entrusted to its care.

ADMISSION: Advance tickets are $20 ages 15 & up (with timed entry); $14 age 14 and under (infants free); $25 at the gate, but reservations are recommended to avoid delays as attendance capacity will be restrained to adhere to all local safety guidelines. Advance tickets may be purchased starting Aug. 15 online at AuburnHeights.org or by phone at 302-239-2385 (weekdays 9 to 5).