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Groundbreaking for the North East Motor Sports Museum was held on Friday afternoon, September 25, 2015 under brilliant sunny skies. A crowd estimated at over 400 came to watch the historic moment.

Eligible Groundbreakers included Ricky Craven, Ron Bouchard, Paula Bouchard in honor of her father Ed Flemke, Andy Cusack, Dave Frahm Sr., Joey Logano, Frank Manafort, Bill Manafort, Stanley "Skip" Matczak, Ken Smith, Dick Berggren, Bentley Warren and Bob Bahre.

Speakers Marcus Smith (SMI CEO), Jerry Gappens (NHMS Track Manager), Museum Board Member Ricky Craven, NH State Senate President Chuck Morse, State Senator Andrew Hosmer and Loudon First Selectman Bob Krieger spoke highly of the project and its value to the Lakes Region.

Each Groundbreaker received the chrome shovel they used in the ceremony. Each shovel was engraved with the Groundbreaker’s name as well as the date and the museum’s logo. Many of those in attendance lined up to receive specially engraved glasses that commemorated the occasion.

It’s hoped that the foundation can be in the ground before frost sets in. Construction of the building is set to begin in the spring.

(L-R) Emcee and event organizer Mark Hann (far left), Museum President Dick Berggren with the four New England drivers who have won at NASCAR's highest level. (L-R) 1970 Daytona 500 winner Pete Hamilton, 1981 Talladega winner Ron Bouchard, two-time winner Ricky Craven and 2015 Daytona 500 winner Joey Logano. The four winners had never before been together. (Mary Hodge photo)

A dozen Groundbreakers are ready. (L-R) Stanley (Skip) Matczak, Bill Manafort, Frank Manafort, Joey Logano, Dave Frahm Sr., Andy Cusack, Dick Berggren, Ed Flemke Jr, Paula Bouchard, Ron Bouchard, Ricky Craven, Ken Smith. That's Bentley Warren's earthmover in the background. (Courtesy NHMS)

The 1970 Daytona 500 winner, Pete Hamilton, and 2015 Daytona 500 winner, Joey Logano, enjoy the moment as does Ron Bouchard. (Dick Ayers)