| NASCAR history started with the stock car racing | | | | 1949 in Charlotte, N.C. The rules then required |
| gaining popularity as early as 1936, with the first | | | | that the racecars should all be American made, |
| unofficial & informal race held in 1938. This was | | | | and if ever modifications were to be done on the |
| then promoted by Bill France Sr. after being asked | | | | racecars, it was only the metal plate that |
| to do so by the car racers who usually hang out | | | | protected the right front tire that was allowed. |
| on his service station. | | | | There were 33 drivers competing with almost |
| France together with other big names in stock | | | | every type of American made car represented in |
| car racing at that time then held a meeting at | | | | that race. |
| Streamline Hotel where they contributed ideas on | | | | For this event, over 13,000 people came and |
| their plans for NASCAR. They were then able to | | | | watched the race. Their target to make it |
| come up with guidelines, which include the | | | | appealing to the average person succeeded. Glen |
| schedule of the race, the rules that govern the | | | | Dunaway walked out a winner of that race, not |
| race, and the prize money involved. A board of | | | | until it was found out that a modification was |
| governors was formed with Bill France Sr. as the | | | | made on his racecars rear springs. He was |
| President. A fellow named Red Boyt was the man | | | | disqualified and Jims Roper was declared the true |
| who coined the name NASCAR (National | | | | winner. |
| Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) a critical | | | | The race then evolved to what was then called |
| point in NASCAR history. | | | | the Grand National Division, or what is known now |
| The very first official NASCAR race was held on | | | | as the Winston Cup. On this first year, Red Byron |
| February 15, 1948 at Daytona Beach. Red Byron | | | | was the overall champion with 9 more races held |
| was declared winner of that race. One week later | | | | that year. On the second year, a total of 21 |
| after the event, NASCAR was then incorporated | | | | races were scheduled. |
| making this major milestone in NASCAR history. | | | | NASCAR history had many other milestones along |
| The main thrust then of NASCAR was that it | | | | the way. And this we owe mainly to Mr. Bill |
| should appeal to the average person, and thus the | | | | France Sr. NASCAR racing would not been |
| racers made use of only stock equipment, or | | | | possible without his guidance and efforts. NASCAR |
| cars which were not modified in any way. | | | | history is indeed very colorful, and a brighter |
| The first purely stock event was held in June | | | | future continues to lie ahead. |