This past weekend, Bouligny Plaza in New Iberia, LA was abuzz with excitement as car enthusiasts gathered for the highly-anticipated Bayou Teche Fest 2024. Amidst the festivities, one peculiar yet fascinating sight caught everyone's attention - Greg DeKeyzer's fully-functional 1915 Ford roadster, which he effortlessly hand-cranked to bring to life.
DeKeyzer, an avid collector and restorer of vintage vehicles, took great pride in showcasing his prized possession. In an interview, he shared his experiences with the century-old roadster, which has been a labor of love for years. 'This car has a special place in my heart,' he said, beaming with pride. 'Not only is it incredibly rare, but it's also an excellent example of automotive innovation from a bygone era.' As DeKeyzer carefully cranked the engine, it roared back to life, drawing a large crowd of onlookers.
The Ford roadster, measuring just over 15 feet in length, features a single door on the driver's side and is propelled by a 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing a modest 20 horsepower. While not exactly built for speed, DeKeyzer revealed that his trusty roadster has reached remarkable speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. To put this into perspective, that's nearly the same speed as the average early 20th-century city traffic!
As he took the roadster for a spin around the plaza, the crowd marveled at its agility and maneuvers, given its age and design. The sight of DeKeyzer proudly riding in his vintage vehicle sent waves of excitement throughout the festival grounds. For those in attendance, it was an unforgettable experience that not only highlighted the significance of automotive heritage but also served as a poignant reminder of the human spirit's capacity for innovation and perseverance.
Beyond the striking display of vintage machinery, the Bayou Teche Fest 2024 offered attendees an array of engaging activities, live music performances, and local art exhibits. Visitors savored Southern delicacies while strolling through the charming Bouligny Plaza. The event served as a resounding tribute to New Iberia's rich cultural history, fostering community connections and uplifting the local economy.