The Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm will take place July 12 at the Copshaholm House Mansion in South Bend.
The Studebaker National Museum in South Bend is hosting the event. The Elkhart-based JBS Collection, owned by Jack Boyd Smith Jr., and Nappanee-based LaVine Restorations will play key roles.
The 2025 edition of the Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm showcases the historic connection between the City of South Bend and the automotive industry.
“South Bend is an important part of American automotive history, dating back to 1852, when Clement and Henry Studebaker arrived here, and 1857, when the brothers built their first carriage here,” Smith said in a press release. “There's no other event quite like this in the South Bend area, and people here have a deep appreciation for all things automotive. They feel it in their bones.”
This marks the seventh year of The Concours d'Elegance at Copshaholm. In 2024, the one-day event drew nearly 2,000 attendees from 20 states and as far away as India. The concours features programming for all ages with a selection of unique and rare vehicles.
According to Patrick Slebonick, Studebaker National Museum executive director, the Copshaholm Concours has become a force for good and an economic boom in the South Bend region. The event draws exhibitors and attendees from around the globe.
Featured classes include Inspired Greatness (Rolls-Royce automobiles of all years); Step Out With Mercury! (Mercury automobiles of all years); American Splendor (open-bodied full classics); European Luxury (full classic European automobiles); Studebaker Sedans (closed-bodied four-door Studebakers of all years); Kickin’ Brass (Brass-era automobiles); The Roaring ‘20s (an open class for popular-priced 1920-1929 automobiles); and The Silent Knights (Knight sleeve-valve engined automobiles).
Automotive scholar and historian Matt Short will serve as chief judge. Best of Show will be selected from among Best of Class and Premier Award winners.
“To see attendance grow over the years, and to have the chance every year to meet and talk to folks whose fathers and grandfathers worked at Studebaker, is beyond fulfilling,” Smith said. “I attend a lot of automotive events, and what makes Copshaholm truly unique—aside from the high-level programming and its undeniable, building energy—is the added homegrown feel. That is truly unique among concours events.”
