Autos as old as 85 years to new gather in New Iberia for Cruisin’ Cajun Country

Published 6:30 am Sunday, May 19, 2019

The breeze in Bouligny Plaza was a perfect complement to a glorious spring day as collectors gathered to show off their cars, trucks and created machines. There was no competition, except the Poker Run that awarded best and worst hands collected at the stops along the highway ride. The sole purpose of the event was to bring in people who share a hobby together for a good time. Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama and Florida residents made the 2019 trip for the 11th annual Cruisin Cajun Country three-day event. There’s no better place for driving than the surrounding beauty of Iberia, St. Martin, St. Mary and Vermilion Parishes. The proceeds raised through the club events are given to more than 12 charities in the area, said Johnny Bourque, president of the car club. Last year the group gave away more than $12,000. There were 179 vehicles on tour in Acadiana this weekend.

One owner from Longview, Texas, Hewitt Wheless, said about the New Iberia host club Cruisin’ Cajuns, “These people have what I call sunshine in my heart.” The club has raised money to give away four special handicapped tricycles. Two were given this weekend working through a physical/occupational therapist in Lafayette. AMBUCS developed and now provides custom equipment to all ages for mobility challenged people.

Seeing the vehicles on the roads of the Teche Area, at the Ramada Inn host hotel or on show at collecting spots like J.P. Thibodeaux on the U.S. 90 Frontage Road and Bouligny Plaza is one more way the hospitality of south Louisiana is bringing an economic boost through tourism into the communities along the Bayou Teche.