The first ever Walter P. Chrysler Legacy Gala, an event set up to honor the American manufacturer's history, opened and closed its doors this weekend, with some 570 attending. The event also marked the official launch of the Walter P. Chrysler Legacy Campaign, a multi-year endeavor set up to ensure the museum's viability.
During the event, those present paid tribute to automotive icons like Lee Iacocca, Jay Leno, Richard Petty and Virgil Exner. All were inducted in the Walter P. Chrysler Legacy Circle. For the common cause, the museum, $1 million has been raised.
"The Legacy Gala was a coming out party, of sorts, to tell the world we're now a nonprofit, dedicated as ever to showcasing Chrysler's rich heritage for decades to come," Frank Fountain, Museum Foundation chairman of the board said at the event.
"What better way than with a joyous celebration of decades of creativity and ingenuity that began with the inspiration and passion of one very enterprising man?”
Among the ceremonies held during the event, an auction of items and services, like a day with Richard Petty and a private tour of Jay Leno's Big Dog Garage, were among the highlights of the night. Jay Leno gave a a full length performance, as well as tickets to his "The Tonight Show."
"This was a grand occasion to salute the achievements of four outstanding gentlemen and welcome a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of current and retired Chrysler executives, auto enthusiasts and industry leaders, as well as our colleagues throughout the community to our magnificent Museum," Fountain added.
During the event, those present paid tribute to automotive icons like Lee Iacocca, Jay Leno, Richard Petty and Virgil Exner. All were inducted in the Walter P. Chrysler Legacy Circle. For the common cause, the museum, $1 million has been raised.
"The Legacy Gala was a coming out party, of sorts, to tell the world we're now a nonprofit, dedicated as ever to showcasing Chrysler's rich heritage for decades to come," Frank Fountain, Museum Foundation chairman of the board said at the event.
"What better way than with a joyous celebration of decades of creativity and ingenuity that began with the inspiration and passion of one very enterprising man?”
Among the ceremonies held during the event, an auction of items and services, like a day with Richard Petty and a private tour of Jay Leno's Big Dog Garage, were among the highlights of the night. Jay Leno gave a a full length performance, as well as tickets to his "The Tonight Show."
"This was a grand occasion to salute the achievements of four outstanding gentlemen and welcome a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of current and retired Chrysler executives, auto enthusiasts and industry leaders, as well as our colleagues throughout the community to our magnificent Museum," Fountain added.