In the mid-1960s, the iconic American television show, The Munsters, introduced us to a quirky yet endearing family of friendly monsters who resided at 1313 Mockingbird Lane. This sitcom was not only well-known for its unique characters but also for its distinctive automobiles: the Munster Koach and the Dragula – a hauntingly captivating vehicle that has left an indelible impression on popular culture, embodying the essence of the show’s eccentricity and humor.
Butch Patrick, known for portraying Eddie Munster, the child werewolf in the lovable Munster family, will be on hand with the iconic cars from The Munsters at the Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon, Concerts, Movie & TV Car Show in Boxborough MA, June 30-July 2, 2023.
The Dragula was a daring and imaginative creation, embodying the essence of The Munsters, a program that thrived on its humorously eerie aesthetic. Tom Daniel, a designer renowned for his unconventional and captivating designs, conceived the car while working with George Barris at Barris Kustom Industries. It’s design was not only innovative but also audacious, reflecting the show’s offbeat and playful spirit.
The cars construction was an intriguing feat of engineering. It’s body was crafted from a genuine coffin that Richard “Korky” Korkes, a project engineer at Barris Kustom Industries, procured from a North Hollywood funeral home. This unusual base material set the tone for the entire car, further establishing its unconventional and gothic appeal.
The vehicle was powered by a formidable 289ci Ford Mustang V-8 engine, boasting an impressive 350 horsepower. The engine was coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, adding a dash of adrenaline to the Dragula’s already thrilling appeal. The vehicle’s power was further enhanced by two four-barrel carburetors perched on a Mickey Thompson Ram-Thrust manifold, adding to its high-performance capabilities.
The cars unique design elements did not stop at its engine. The rear sported 10.00-15 Firestone racing slicks on custom 10-inch Radar aluminum and steel wheels, each adorned with a large silver spider to match the vehicle’s gothic theme. Meanwhile, the front wheels were fitted with 4-inch Italian tires on Speedsport English buggy wire wheels.
In a bid to amplify the Dragula’s gothic appeal, Barris installed four Zoomie-style organ pipes on each side of the car, a creative twist on standard exhaust pipes. The car also featured antique lamps at the front and rear, providing a distinctive old-world charm. The front of the vehicle showcased a marble gravestone marked with the cryptic inscription: “Born 1367, Died ?” A “hidden” radiator crowned with a petite golden casket and a driver’s seat positioned behind the engine under a plastic bubble completed the Dragula’s quirky yet captivating design.
The opportunity to view this iconic car from The Munsters is arriving this summer at the Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon, Concerts, Movie & TV Car Show. From June 30 to July 2, 2023, this event will transport you on a journey of nostalgia at the Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center in Boxborough, Massachusetts. This is not merely a convention but a comprehensive celebration of pop culture, featuring live performances, collectible exhibitors, vintage clothing and collectibles, and an assembly of beloved vehicles from film and television.
The event is set to feature an impressive lineup of celebrity guests, including Micky Dolenz, Michael Des Barres, Cherie Currie, Richie Ramone, and Butch Patrick. Notably, Butch Patrick, a passionate car enthusiast who played Eddie Munster in The Munsters, will be joining both the Munster Koach and the Dragula. These iconic vehicles, designed by Tom Daniel and constructed by Barris Kustom Industries, are sure to be a highlight of the event, evoking nostalgia and admiration among attendees.
Other notable guests include Keone Young, an actor with a diverse film and television career, and Alicyn Packard, an award-winning voice actress who also fronts a band. Fans of the Boston music scene will be delighted to see Cowboy Mach Bell, Sal Baglio, Charlie Farren, and Barrence Whitfield in the lineup. Charles Rosenay, a well-known author and promoter with deep ties to the Beatles and Monkees fan communities, will also make an appearance.
While the celebrity guests are a significant draw, the heart of the event is the fantastic collection of iconic vehicles from television and film. There’s something magical about seeing these vehicles up close and stepping into a piece of television history. The Dragula, with its unique coffin design and gothic aesthetic, is a standout among these. Fans of The Munsters and classic car enthusiasts alike will be thrilled to examine the vehicle’s distinctive features, from its 289ci Ford Mustang V-8 engine to its custom 10-inch Radar wheels.
The Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon isn’t just about stars and cars, though. It’s a comprehensive celebration of pop culture, offering live entertainment, collectible exhibitors, and much more. Attendees will be able to browse a vast array of merchandise, from vintage toys and comic books to unique art pieces and rare memorabilia. It’s the perfect opportunity to find that elusive collectible or discover a new favorite piece.
Not only will the event showcase remarkable displays, but it’s also poised to present an eclectic mix of music and performances. This makes it an all-inclusive entertainment hub for the weekend, catering to fans of various music genres from rock and pop to soul. Located at the Boxboro Regency Hotel & Conference Center, the event offers the convenience of comfortable lodging and handy facilities, making it a breeze to transform the event into a delightful weekend getaway.
The upcoming Collectibles Extravaganza & MusicCon, a unique blend of concerts, Movie & TV Car Show, pledges to be a memorable occasion for enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you’re a dedicated follower of The Munsters, an admirer of classic cars, or a pop culture aficionado, this event provides an exceptional chance to travel back in time and bask in a wave of nostalgia. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to witness the legendary Munsters’ cars and meet your adored celebrities, all while relishing a superb weekend of fun and entertainment. Snap up your tickets now, as unforgettable moments await your arrival.