President's Message

Welcome to The Model A Ford Foundation website. Known as MAFFI, our foundation operates the world class Model A Museum on the grounds of The Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners, Michigan. Our museum replicates a Ford Model A dealership and showcases thirty wonderful vehicles. From sedans to convertibles to trucks you will find an incredible display of Ford Model A's throughout all the model years of production, 1928-1931. Many unique vehicles are also on display including a school bus, a fire engine, a Police Patrol Wagon and a Town Car. You will also see Model A #1, the car gifted to Thomas Edison from Henry Ford.

In addition to Model A vehicles of all types, we have on display era fashions as well as memorabilia and artifacts related to the Model A and the late 1920's and early 1930's time frame. Education is a key objective of The Foundation and the Museum. We have several interactive displays, which allow visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Model A vehicles and automobile technology. One of our most enjoyed exhibits is our Interactive Start Display which teaches visitors the many steps required to start a Model A. Audio prompts guide a visitor through the process and the visitor is rewarded with the sound of a running engine, the horn honking and the seat vibrating upon a successful start. Please be sure to check out this display and the other displays that we are certain will enhance your visit.

During the third weekend of each September, we have our annual Model A Days event. During this weekend, we have a two day swap meet, technical and fashion seminars, a jazz band and a "First Start" exhibit among our activities. The "First Start" exhibit brings a car back to life that has, in many cases, been dormant for decades. We also offer rides around the campus in Model A's, free of charge. Kids of all ages have a great time taking a ride in "Huff 'N Puff" our 1930 Model A school bus.

We hope you will visit us any time of the year, but especially during Model A Days, where we typically have over 200 Model A's on The Gilmore grounds. Please consider joining MAFFI. You will get so much from your membership, and your support will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you,
John W. Begg
President