Historic Military Convoy set to stop in Mason City, Iowa

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Lindsey James, Executive Director
Phone: 641.422.1663

The Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) Jefferson Highway Convoy will pass through Mason City from October 7-9, 2024, as part of its 30-day journey retracing the historic Jefferson Highway. The convoy will travel more than 2,500 miles from the Minnesota border to New Orleans, Louisiana, celebrating the 15th year of the MVPA’s convoy program. This year’s event marks the eighth convoy organized by the MVPA and the first to follow a north-south axis through the heart of the country. 

As the convoy crosses into Iowa on Monday, October 7th, members will be treated to a Pancake Breakfast in Northwood, hosted by Waking Miss Winifred, at the Olson Community Room (902 1st Avenue South) at 9:30 AM. Waking Miss Winifred, a subsidiary of the Worth County Historical Society, is dedicated to restoring the historic Hotel Northwood, formerly known as the Winifred Hotel—a key landmark for early Jefferson Highway travelers.

“We’re proud to highlight our efforts to renovate the Winifred Hotel, a symbol of the hospitality offered to travelers along the Jefferson Highway in its heyday. We see this breakfast as a moment to connect our shared passion for history and preservation." said Waking Miss Winifred Board Member Brett Bachtle.

Following the breakfast, the convoy will continue south and arrive in Mason City around 11:30 AM, where they will stay at the MacNider Campground until Wednesday, October 9th. A police escort will guide the convoy into the city, and an official welcome will be provided at the campground.

On Tuesday, October 8th, the group will have a full day to explore Mason City’s renowned cultural and historic attractions, including the Historic Park Inn Hotel, the last remaining hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This beacon sits along the original Jefferson Highway route, reflecting the rich history of early 20th-century travel and tourism.

“The convoy allows us to not only celebrate our own deep connection to the Jefferson Highway but also share the stories of our historic landmarks and attractions with visitors from across the country,” said Visit Mason City Executive Director Lindsey James.

A public viewing event will be held at the VFW (1603 South Monroe Avenue) from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Monday, October 7th, giving the community a chance to see the historic military vehicles up close. The public is encouraged to come out and meet the convoy participants while learning more about the history of the Jefferson Highway and the vehicles that played a role in U.S. military history.

“It’s not every day that we get to host such an interactive event, and we welcome the public to engage with convoy participants and learn more about the history of the Jefferson Highway through this rare and memorable experience,” James said. The convoy's journey through Iowa highlights the importance of preserving both the vehicles and the history of the Jefferson Highway, one of America's earliest transcontinental highways.

ABOUT VISIT MASON CITY

Founded in 1985, Visit Mason City (VMC) is the designated destination marketing organization and sales organization for Mason City, Iowa. Funded through hotel/motel tax dollars, a county investment, and private partnerships, VMC’s mission is to enhance the economy of Mason City and the North Iowa area through the promotion of the area as a destination for overnight visitors.