Arnie Beswick will attend the multi-media program by Chad Starbuck on, Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Morrison’s Heritage Museum, 202 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, IL. Three of Arnie’s and Evelyn’s four daughters also will attend: Arnette Beswick, Paula Wiersema, and Michelle Beswick. Doors open at 1:00 p.m. Starbuck’s talk, DVD, and PowerPoint presentation will begin promptly at 1:30. There is no charge to attend.
Arnie “The Farmer” Beswick was authored by his good friend Dean Fait. A few copies are for available for sale at the Chad Starbuck program, on Sunday, October 20, 2024.
Is Arnie “The Farmer” Beswick really a farmer? The answer is yes! Arnie is from a small farming community, Morrison, IL, and in October 2024, he still lives there. That is where he developed an interest in all things mechanical. Even as a kid, Arnie had to work on things, tearing them apart, and making them better…and faster.
By the mid-1950s, he was racing Oldsmobiles and Dodges, eventually acquiring the first of what would become many Pontiacs that he would race. The ’58 Pontiac Chieftain led to numerous successful races and the beginning of what is a truly legendary career.
A string of Pontiacs would follow–but it was the 348 horsepower ’60 Ventura that really kicked things up a notch. With special heads and camshaft along with other goodies that were shipped in the trunk, Arnie headed to Daytona Beach for the NHRA/NASCAR Winternationals. With the window sticker still attached and after numerous protests from his competitors, he would go on to secure the overall Super Stock award for that week-long competition.
Soon after, Arnie stepped up to full time competition, traveling coast-to-coast and establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. This would continue for several decades.
Through many ups and downs, Beswick earned the respect of fans and fellow racers. He is world famous and recognized as a true champion. He ceased racing about ten yeas ago, but continues to attend racing competitions.