By Allison Preston
Virden, Manitoba — November 9, 2017 — Virden Auto Body is more than just an ordinary shop. The owner, Todd Beltz, took over the shop from his father, Buck, in 2004 and has since been decorating it in honour of Virden’s history. As a passionate collector, Todd owns an impressive amount of memorabilia from Virden’s past, which is up for display in the shop’s office and reception area.
Virden Auto Body is full of historical artifacts such as postcards, signs, and photographs. Other items of significance include an old jukebox as well as an old phone booth.
As an autobody shop owner, Beltz pays particular attention to old car-related pieces. Old dealership envelopes as well as oil and company signs such can be seen throughout the entire shop.
Beltz acquired his favourite piece when he placed an ad in the paper. A black and white photo from 1951 shows the city of Virden from an aerial view. Beltz appreciates the depiction of the town during a simpler time when there were no paved roads.
Beltz sees his historical archives as conversation starters and as ways to break the ice with customers.
“It’s something for people to come look at. If a customer comes in and has to wait they might get to see their mom and dad up on the wall,” says Beltz.
Visitors often drop by just to give Beltz old photos, post cards or yearbooks from local schools. In fact, this is how Beltz first became interested in creating these archives.
“Someone dropped off a picture of the first oil well drill in Virden and I thought: that’s pretty neat,” says Beltz.
While Beltz finds that most things are duplicates of items he already owns, he continues to buy new finds if they come his way. He currently has an ongoing notification on eBay as well as other websites advertising his search for Virden memorabilia.
Virden Auto Body’s aspirations and goals go beyond repairing cars. Celebrating the history of the community is engrained in the identity of the shop. As Beltz says: “Be proud of where you come from and be proud of your history.”
This is a touching reminder that we should always strive to remember our history on this Remembrance Day.
For more information on the shop or if you’d simply like to speak with Todd, please call (204) 748-2354.
