On a bright summer morning, 27 members gathered to explore one of the most impressive personal collections of Triumph history in the region—Vernon and Jeanne Brannon’s legendary shop. A true treasure trove of Triumph Sports Car heritage, the Brannon shop featured a lineup that spanned generations: TR3s, TR4s, TR5s, TR6s, TR7s, TR8s, Heralds, Spitfires, GT6s, and even a Dolomite—surrounded by walls rich with memorabilia, rare parts, and vintage racing lore.

Seven proud owners drove their Triumphs and other pre-1980 British sports cars to the event, parking in the rear lot alongside five of Vernon’s beautifully preserved British cars for a spontaneous mini car show. The visual lineup alone was enough to stir the soul of any enthusiast.

The morning wasn’t just about admiration—it also featured a mini tech session focused on diagnosing a 1979 Triumph TR8. The hands-on troubleshooting sparked conversation among both seasoned mechanics and newcomers alike. Tips flew around the room, from installing emergency hood release cables to insights into Slagle racing history.

The event also welcomed four newer members, experiencing Vernon’s “hall of Triumph history” for the first time. Their wide-eyed reactions captured what many of us felt: sheer appreciation for the depth of knowledge, passion, and preservation of Triumph heritage housed within those shop walls.

And let’s not forget the final touch—an excellent selection of donuts that perfectly fueled the day’s camaraderie and car talk.

Filed by Danny Walker