This past weekend, Freeport Ford had the pleasure of joining car enthusiasts from all over Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin at one of our favorite local events—Crusin for a Cause, hosted by the Freeport Lions Club. Set in the heart of downtown Freeport, IL, in the lot directly across from the iconic Union Dairy, the event brought together an impressive lineup of classic cars, muscle machines, and modern marvels—all for a great cause.
We were proud to display our 2025 Ford Mustang GT Premium Convertible, a sleek and powerful nod to the Mustang legacy. But we were even more honored to be parked right next to the star of the show: Wayne Crakenberger’s beautifully restored 1969 Mustang Mach 1, which took home the coveted Best Ford award. Watching two generations of Mustangs shine side by side—one vintage, one brand-new—was a special moment for any Ford fan.
A Freeport Tradition With Purpose
The Crusin for a Cause event isn’t just a celebration of cars; it’s a celebration of community. Organized by the Freeport Lions Club, the show supports vital local causes and programs right here in Stephenson County. Attendees were treated to live music, food vendors, and plenty of chrome and horsepower to admire, all set against the historic charm of downtown Freeport.
And yes—we may have indulged in a scoop (or two) of ice cream from Union Dairy, a Freeport institution since 1914!
Celebrating the Best of Ford—Then and Now
The Mustang has long been a symbol of American performance and freedom. Wayne Crakenberger’s ’69 Mustang Mach 1 stood as a shining example of Ford’s legacy, while our 2025 Mustang GT Premium Convertible showed just how far innovation and engineering have come. Whether you love the rumble of a classic V8 or the smooth power of modern tech, Ford’s pony car continues to turn heads.
Thank You, Freeport
We want to give a big thank you to the Freeport Lions Club for inviting us to participate and to everyone who came out to enjoy the event. Supporting local car shows and community fundraisers is a huge part of who we are at Freeport Ford. We’re proud to be a part of this incredible town—and we’re always happy to talk cars, community, and the road ahead.
Looking for your own Mustang moment?
Come visit Freeport Ford, located right here in Freeport, IL. We proudly serve the surrounding communities of Rockford, Lena, Stockton, Galena, Monroe, Beloit, and beyond. Whether you’re searching for a new Ford Mustang, a reliable SUV, or a used truck, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit.
Stay tuned for more upcoming events, specials, and community highlights—because at Freeport Ford, we’re driven by more than just cars.

