- A 1925 Ford Model T was among the first vehicles to travel over the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
- Marvin Diotte, along with his grandsons, cruised the bridge in a 1925 Ford Model T.
- Diotte said, “I just thought it was cool, whenever the bridge opened, to be able to take my dad’s car with the grandkids across the bridge and back.”
- Diotte wanted to create a memory for his grandsons on the opening day, stating, “I want the memory for them and me on the opening day.”
- Micah noted the positive reactions from other drivers, saying, “It sounds like there was a lot of honking... They must think it’s a beautiful car.”
- Camden expressed the uniqueness of the experience, stating, “Just feels amazing knowing that I won’t do this again, but also that most people can’t do this, and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
- Diotte reflected on the experience, saying, “It’s absolutely great. I’ve had smiles for days just for doing it.”
- The Model T was produced in Michigan before the opening of Windsor’s existing border crossings.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge officially opened to traffic, with a 1925 Ford Model T making a historic crossing. Owner Marvin Diotte shared this memorable experience with his grandsons, Micah and Camden, creating lasting memories on this significant day.128
Diotte expressed his excitement, stating, “I just thought it was cool, whenever the bridge opened, to be able to take my dad’s car with the grandkids across the bridge and back,” highlighting the sentimental value of the moment.
Micah noted the enthusiastic response from onlookers, saying, “It sounds like there was a lot of honking... They must think it’s a beautiful car.” Camden reflected on the uniqueness of the experience, sharing, “Just feels amazing knowing that I won’t do this again, but also that most people can’t do this, and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”56
The Model T, which rolled off the line in Michigan, predates both of Windsor’s existing border crossings, the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, making this crossing particularly special for Diotte and his family.
“It’s absolutely great. I’ll have smiles for days just for doing it,” Diotte added, encapsulating the joy of this historic event.
“Marvin Diotte, along with his grandsons, drove the Model T across the bridge, aiming to create lasting memories. Diotte expressed his joy, stating, "It’s absolutely great. I have smiles for days just for doing it," highlighting the significance of the occasion.”
