National Insulator Association president Dudley Ellis, a veteran of many national shows, proclaimed to those in attendance at the banquet for the 2005 show that the San Jose event was one of the finest, if not the finest, national show ever. 

Those kind words are a complement well deserved for show hosts Colin Jung, Dave Elliott and all their close helpers. The show ran smooth for dealers and exhibitors alike; attendance was good; and many collectors and non-collectors alike brought "walk in" insulators to sell to the highest bidder in silent auctions.

Below, Dave (left) and Colin (right) receive a plaque given annually to national show hosts from NIA president Dudley Ellis.

Carver Mead and Barbara Smith's exhibit for the 2005 National described the "Evolution of High Tension 1889 -1909". The demand for more electricity in society resulted in ever longer lines carrying higher voltages.

Their display, pictured on pages on pages 19, 20 & 21, received the following awards:

National Insulator Association's Best General Display

Jack Tod Memorial Award for the Best Exhibit Using Porcelain

Greater Chicago Insulator Club's award for Best Exhibit Using Power Insulators

Nor-Cal Insulator Club's award for Best Exhibit Using Porcelain Insulators

(page 18)

(page 19)

(page 20, 21)

Best Exhibit Using Threaded CD's (In Memory of Jim Overstreet) Steve Marsh's exhibit of Hemingray insulators and other glassware won this award, presented by the Dixie Jewels Insulator Club.

Combined EC&M Exhibit

Collectors from all around contributed insulators to the CD 123
exhibit show below. 
Shown in detail are two 
B Mold style insulators with 
outstanding amber swirls, 
plus an 1870's Telegraph Register 
manufactured by Electrical Construction & Maintenance Company.

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Dave Hall displayed Canadian insulators.

 

A train ride from giant redwoods to the beach at Santa Cruz was one of the activities available to attendees of the San Jose National Show.