Solved: PN #461 -- Meeting of "old crocks", old cars in Paris, 1906

[Paul Jaray]

Are the cars the object of the gathering in any way or are they just bringing there people for the (unknown) event?

[pnegyesi]

yes, this meeting was focusing on the cars

[Wendax]

Are those cars taxis?

[pnegyesi]

I don't think so

[ropat53]

Is it the presentation of a new model or marque, the two cars that are driving into the crowd, seem to be the same?

[pnegyesi]

It is not about new cars

[faksta]

(One of the) first Concours d'Elegance?

[Paul Jaray]

...or one of the first meeting of 'classic' cars?

[pnegyesi]

It is a point for PJ. "Old Crocks", assembling at the Place de la Concorde, Paris, 1906

[pnegyesi]

The landmark event in defining the characteristics of this cultural development (how the motor-car was beginning to be identified as both collectable and museum object) was the parade of 'vieux tacots' in Paris in November, 1906. Assembling at the Place de la Concorde, the pre-1901 vehicles set out on a route via the Champs Elysées to Bagatelle, Suresnes and Sévres, before returning to Paris. Capturing the imagination of the motoring enthusiast, the occasion introduced the concept of history as performance and the historic vehicle as 'old crock' and veteran.
From: David Jeremiah: The formation and legacy of Britain's first motor museum. Published in 1998