13 January 2024
Prevost Hosts 100th Anniversary Celebrations
Nashville, TN – To mark its 100th anniversary, Prevost is planning a series of events and activities throughout the United States and Canada. The celebrations, which begin in January and continue through September, will involve thousands of people.
“For us, the anniversary is an opportunity to thank our dedicated employees and loyal customers – many of whom have been with us for generations,” said Prevost President François Tremblay. “It’s also a time to recognize the vision, determination, creativity and lasting legacy of our founder Eugène Prévost.”
ABA Unveiling
The anniversary kicked off in Nashville on January 13 at the American Bus Association Marketplace. On January 15, Prevost brought customers together for a special evening. The night included a multi-media historical journey that covered the founding of Prevost and traced the company’s history through the decades. The event culminated with the unveiling of “Clarisse” – a hand-built replica of the wooden body coach that Eugène Prévost fashioned in 1924.
For years, it was the dream of André Turmel, one of Eugene’s grandsons, to recreate the very first Prevost ever made. As the 100th anniversary approached, the family worked together to make the dream a reality.
“We supported each other. Just like Eugène. That’s how he viewed life, in my opinion,” said Turmel.
Richard Prévost, also a grandson, added, “It wasn’t just one person working on it. We were a team. We were constantly talking with each other.”
The project was a labor of love that spanned three generations. The name “Clarisse” was chosen by the family to honor Eugène’s wife who was his biggest champion and tireless supporter.
Clarisse Hits the Road
With her dark green exterior, snappy black trim and gleaming wooden interior, Clarisse is a beauty who will appear at many of Prevost’s 100th anniversary events, including the UMA Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Clarisse will also be the special guest at seven Prevost Service Centers where the company is holding 100th anniversary events to recognize its employees and customers and host local dignitaries and city officials. Events will take place in Goodlettsville, Tenn.; Winter Garden, Fla.; Fort Worth, Texas; Mira Loma, Calif.; Calgary, Alberta; Mississauga, Ontario; and South Plainfield, New Jersey.
Signature September Events
Prevost is holding a 100 Year Anniversary Rally the week of September 8, 2024, in Quebec City. This “homecoming” for Prevost motorhome owners will be an opportunity to reconnect with long-time friends, make new ones and celebrate the shared passion for the Prevost lifestyle. Owners from far and wide will cover thousands of miles to participate in the week-long gathering. From the mountains of Western Canada to the southern shores of Florida, groups will be caravanning on a great migration North to Quebec City.
For nearly a week, rally attendees will be immersed in the history of Prevost, Quebec City and Sainte-Claire – where the company was founded and is still located to this day. The itinerary includes a Prevost factory visit, converter display coaches, historic Quebec tours, shopping excursions, motorcycle rides, golf outings, live entertainment and much more.
Prevost and Sainte-Claire are also celebrating anniversaries that mark 100 and 200 years, respectively. Sainte-Claire was founded in 1824, followed by Prevost a century later. On September 14, the company’s employees and their families, customers and suppliers will enjoy an extravaganza that includes factory tours, a visit by Clarisse plus food and entertainment.
Join the Celebration
Throughout 2024, Prevost will share stories from its 100th anniversary on its website – Prevostcar.com – and on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and X. The company encourages anyone to submit a favorite Prevost memory. It could be a motorcoach adventure, a group travel experience or something else.
Prevost has also created a limited edition 100th anniversary coffee table book. Finally, for those who would like to purchase Prevost gear, the company has designed an entire line of attire and accessories, including T-shirts, hats, jackets, tumblers and more.
For information on Prevost’s 100th anniversary celebrations, visit prevostcar.com.