In a small town, some things thrive without complex rules. They just need people who care enough to keep them going. That is the essence of the Marshfield Cruisers.
Linda Blazer, a key organizer, emphasizes that it is not a formal club. There are no dues, sign-ups, or pressure. "We're just a group that gets together," she explains. "Bring your car, visit a little, let folks walk around and look." This simple, decade-plus-old concept has endured.A Legacy of Dedication
Linda and her husband, Bill Blazer, have been instrumental for nearly seventeen years, showing up and helping to keep the event rolling. They also bring their own history: a 1952 Chevy they've owned for almost 63 years—a fact of which they are "kind of proud."
The Blazers' '52 Chevy often parks alongside Bill's '59 Chevy pickup, which has won awards, though the Cruisers event itself is strictly non-competitive. It is not a judged car show; no trophies are given for paint or engine cleanliness. As Blazer puts it, "You just show up and have a good time."From Humble Beginnings to a New Home
The gathering began in 2010 on the Marshfield square, started by Melissa Bruner, who wanted to counter the quiet evening atmosphere. When she moved, the Blazers stepped in.
The Cruisers have met in several spots over the years: on the square, behind Dairy Queen and Taco Bell, and then the Young Shopping Center, where it exploded in popularity. "We had over 100 cars out there some nights," Blazer recalls. However, success brought problems: tight parking and difficulties managing the growing crowd.
The group eventually settled at First Baptist Church. For the past few years, this has been a perfect fit, offering a pavilion, restrooms, and water. "It just works," Blazer says, expressing appreciation for the church's hospitality.When and Where to Find Them
From April through September, the Cruisers meet on the second Saturday of each month. If rain—which "old cars don’t like"—forces a cancellation, they try for the third Saturday, space permitting.
Most evenings begin around 5 p.m., although many arrive early to park and get settled. Attendees sit by their cars or gather under the pavilion, especially in the summer heat.
The evening shifts around 7 p.m. for the drawings. Local businesses—including restaurants, auto shops, and banks—donate gift cards, small prizes, and cash, totaling about $300 each time. "You get one entry per vehicle," Blazer notes, meaning "a lot of people end up going home with something."A Welcoming Community
The event draws a crowd, with 70 to 80 vehicles on a good night, often more, particularly the first gathering of the season when everyone is eager to show off their cars after winter.
The range of vehicles is diverse: 1940s models next to newer Corvettes, classic pickups, motorcycles, and the occasional tractor. Even unfinished projects are welcome: “Bring it anyway,” Blazer encourages.
This welcoming, non-judgmental attitude is what keeps the Cruisers going. There’s no gate, no entry fee, and no registration. "You just come," Blazer says.
Though the group has a following of over 400 people on their email list for updates, the event retains a small-town feel. It is a place for neighbors to chat, families to walk through, kids to admire cars, and enthusiasts to swap stories.
For Linda Blazer, the purpose is simple: "It’s just a place to come, sit, visit, and enjoy.” It’s a group of people who decided long ago that this tradition was worth keeping alive—and have been showing up ever since.
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