Dukes Of Hazzard Cars Draw Huge Crowd, Help Raise Money For Chalybeate VFD

Dukes of Hazzard fans get a close up look of the cars as kids play in a bouncy house at Chalybeate VFD Saturday, July 16.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Edmonson County looked more like Hazzard County at the Chalybeate Fire Department on Saturday as hundreds came out to check out iconic car models from the classic TV show "The Dukes of Hazzard," presented by Hazzard Life.

The company, who specializes in building and maintaining The General Lee (69 Dodge Charger), Daisy's Roadrunner, (1974 Plymouth Roadrunner from seasons 1 and 2), and Rosco's patrol car (1976 Plymouth Fury), brought the cars to the fire department to help in their annual fundraiser which included an auction, fresh grilled food, and live music. There were also games and activities for smaller kids.

Even though the cars were replicas and were not actually used in the show, the vibe and authenticity of the cars were more than enough to give someone the itch to climb in through the windows or slide across the hood. (We asked if we could, but it didn't happen.)

1969 Dodge Charger "The General Lee," owned by Hazzard Life. The car features a 440 Magnum V8 engine.

The fundraiser, sponsored by D93's Tony Rose Morning Show, The Edmonson Voice, and SERVPRO, drew the largest crowd to date for Chalybeate's annual event that raised a record amount of money for much needed equipment for the fire department.

Tony Rose, one of the area's most well-known personalities, said he felt like he was a kid again as he raced down Chalybeate stretch with Hazzard Life's Kenneth Wayne Mahan, Edmonson Voice Editor Darren Doyle, and Chalybeate Chief Daniel Johnson.

"Riding in the General Lee was awesome," Rose said, smiling. "And as much as Bo and Luke Duke were heroes to so many back in the 80's, our volunteer firefighters and emergency crews are the real heroes today. To be able to help promote this event with our friends, The Edmonson Voice, and support our local firefighters, that's what it's all about."

Chief Daniel Johnson said the fire department would like to thank all of the donors and supporters for this year's event. "We had overwhelming support from our community that helped us raise much needed funds for our department."

He said the auction was a success partly due to donated rides in the General Lee from Hazzard Life, auctioned off to the highest bidders. "The event was truly memorable, allowing several people to get a once-in-a-lifetime ride thanks to Hazzard Life," Johnson said. "Their presence, along with D93, The Edmonson Voice, live music from Rye Davis, and our community made for a great day."

Johnson said his department is looking forward to more successful events in the future. "We're thankful to live in such a great community."