Kenworth deploys 100th anniversary-themed trailer

A Kenworth 100th anniversary-themed trailer and history exhibit is making its way across North America to commemorate Kenworth’s milestone anniversary. The history exhibit will be on display at industry trade shows and community gatherings throughout 2023.

The special trailer is a Great Dane 53-ft. step-deck van that features an extensive timeline of Kenworth’s history, video presentations, vintage Kenworth badges, and more. Those who experience the historical exhibit will come away with an in-depth understanding of Kenworth’s past and key developments that will help shape Kenworth’s future, the manufacturer said.

The trailer used for this tour has a unique history of its own. It was previously used in Kenworth’s 75th anniversary tour in 1998 before it was purchased by the late Allen Koenig, founder of Midwest Specialized Transportation. Prior to the tour in 1998, Koenig was asked to provide planning assistance and drivers for the tour.

Kenworth supplied Midwest Specialized Transportation drivers with a Limited Edition Anniversary W900L to haul its anniversary trailer throughout North America. Following the Kenworth 75th anniversary tour, Al Koenig purchased the special truck and trailer combination, which has remained in the Koenig family. Since then, the Koenig family has periodically showcased the trailer at truck shows and events so communities around the country can learn about Kenworth’s history. In preparation for this year’s anniversary tour, Kenworth re-connected with the Koenig family to restore the trailer and update the historical exhibit with new information about Kenworth’s history.

“My dad loved trucks, especially Kenworths,” Chris Koenig recalled. “He was a firm believer in the Kenworth product, which is why he only operated Kenworth trucks when he owned Midwest Specialized Transportation.”

According to Koenig, Al was a serious truck history buff and once served as chairman of the America Truck Historical Society and held positions with the America Trucking Association and other trucking organizations to help preserve the history of the trucking industry. So when Kenworth approached him in 1998 about helping with Kenworth’s 75th anniversary tour, the answer was ‘absolutely.’

“From Kenworth plant tours, attending customer events, and getting to know Kenworth employees over the years, my dad grew a deep appreciation for Kenworth’s rich history,” Chris Koenig said. “He liked to collect truck memorabilia. When the Kenworth 75th anniversary tour ended, he wanted to own part of Kenworth’s history through the truck and trailer combination and teach others about Kenworth’s history.