Legends of the Cruise
By Chris Murphy
George Lucas’ American Graffiti was released in 1973 and since then, Modesto USA has been immortalized in one of the top 100 films of all time. There were so many people, cars and experiences that George drew inspiration from and these were all put together for this legendary film. For years, Modesto has been working on a variety of ways to celebrate our classic history, educate the public and draw tourists from around the world.
Located on 10th St, the street of the original drag is home base to the Modesto Historic Cruise Route and Walk of Fame founded in 2012. Like the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, there are nearly forty Classic Tailfin Markers on the sidewalk and plaza between J and K streets featuring Modesto’s Legends of the Cruise. The first marker was presented to George Lucas in 2013. This is also the starting point for the Cruise Walk Tour featuring 25 interactive kiosks loaded with Modesto, music, car and cruising history.
To learn more, visit www.modestocruiseroute.com for pictures, video and history.
The 2019 Legends of the Cruise are:
Steve Pedego
Dub Kyle
Bill Terpstra
Bob Piccinini
Jerry Sauls
Road Rebels Car Club
Thanks so much to Mat and the crew at Flying Turtle Concrete for making our tailfin markers. Also, a Flying Turtle fun fact, Mat used to be lead singer for a band called the Cadillac Kids. Right on! Please check out Flying Turtle at www.flyingturtleconcrete.com
