70 Years of Jeep Exhibit Spotlights Rare 1941 Willys MA at Walter P. Chrysler Museum Apr. 19 - Dec. 30

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- An original 1941 Willys MA is the focal point of an anniversary exhibition at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills, Mich., that celebrates one of the automotive industry's most iconic vehicles.  70 Years of Jeep® runs April 19 – Dec. 30, 2011.

Featuring a changing array of eight production and concept vehicles, 70 Years of Jeep traces the vehicle's evolutionary rise from military reconnaissance use to the transportation of choice in navigating all manner of terrain for millions of adventure-seekers.  The special exhibit also features historical images, memorabilia and extensive narrative that chronicles Jeep's embodiment of freedom and pride for seven decades.

The Museum is showcasing Willys MA78621, one of approximately 45 known 1941 models in the world, an estimated 20 of which are restored.  Of the 20 restored vehicles, eight are in the U.S.  Willys MA78621 is on loan from the private collection of George and Bernadette Hollins of Palos Park, Ill. who have traced the vehicle's origins back to July 5, 1941, the day it was delivered to the U.S. Army from the Willys-Overland plant in Toledo, OH.  It is believed to be one of four MA shipped to the 15th Infantry for testing in Fort Lewis, Wash.

MA78621 was discovered rusting away in a farmer's field near Fort Lewis in 2001 and was restored the following year.

The rotation of heritage vehicles rounding out the 70 Years of Jeep exhibition include:

• 1943 Jeep MB
• 1945 Jeep CJ-2A
• 1949 Jeep Station Wagon
• 1950 Jeep M38
• 1950 Jeepster
• 1964 Jeep Gladiator Fire Truck
• 1973 Jeep CJ-5
• 1984 Jeep Cherokee
• 1986 Jeep CJ-7
• 1987 Jeep Wrangler
• 1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
• 1997 Jeep Dakar Concept
• 1998 Jeepster Concept
• 2000 "Tomb Raider" Jeep Wrangler
• 2001 Willys II Concept
• 2003 "Sahara" Jeep Wrangler
• 2004 Jeep Rescue Concept
• 2004 Jeep Treo Concept
• 2005 Jeep Gladiator Concept
• 2005 Jeep Hurricane Concept
• 2008 Jeep Renegade Concept

Visit wpchryslermuseum.org to confirm the specific Jeep models on exhibit with the 1941 Willys MA prior to visiting the Museum.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum will also celebrate Jeep heritage with two additional 70 Years of Jeep events coinciding with the July 15, 1941 date the U.S. Army signed the contract that made Willys-Overland the lead producer of the military reconnaissance vehicle:

• 70 Years of Jeep Cruise Night Wednesday, July 13, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.  Jeep will take center stage among all makes and models of cruisers on proud display in the Museum's parking lot.

• 70 Years of Jeep Heritage Saturday, July 16, 9:30 a.m. – noon.  Part of the Museum's 2011 Lecture/Workshop Series, avid Jeep history buff and Chrysler retiree Larry Johnson will explore the vehicle's enduring popularity throughout the decades.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum is open for self-guided tours 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday and noon – 5 p.m. Sunday. The Museum is closed every Monday, Easter Sunday, July 4, Thanksgiving and Dec. 24, 25 and 31.

Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (62 and older) and $4 for six – 12 year olds.  Children five and under are admitted free; group rates are available.  Download two-for-one admission coupons at wpchryslermuseum.org.

Located on the Chrysler Group LLC complex in Auburn Hills, at exit 78 (Chrysler Dr.) off I-75, the Museum is available for corporate and private meetings and events and offers a K-12 education program as well as membership and volunteer opportunities. Families can enjoy Kids' Corner, with regular Museum admission, an area for pre-school – elementary school-age children to enjoy automotive-inspired puzzles, games, projects, books and coloring activities.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) public charity and operates independently of Chrysler Group LLC. Donations are tax-deductible.

SOURCE Walter P. Chrysler Museum