Porsche: A Journey from Heritage to the 936 at 50

Join automotive historian and author Jay Gillotti, Historian for the Porsche Club of America, for two engaging presentations exploring Porsche’s rich history, legendary engineering, and racing heritage. Whether you’re a longtime enthusiast or just beginning your journey into the world of Porsche, these presentations offer something for every automotive fan!

Presentation Schedule

10:30 AM – Porsche Decades: A History of the Marque
Take a journey through the history of Porsche, from the company’s earliest beginnings to the iconic sports cars of today. Jay Gillotti will provide an engaging overview of the Porsche family and company history, covering both pre-World War II and post-war projects, the evolution of Porsche’s model lineup, the type numbering system, and many of the brand’s most significant road and racing cars.

Based on his book Porsche Decades, this presentation is ideal for new Porsche owners, club members, automotive enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about the history behind one of the world’s most celebrated automotive manufacturers. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.

1:30 PM – 936 at 50: Celebrating a Racing Icon
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of Porsche’s greatest endurance racing machines. Although often overshadowed by the legendary 917 and the later 956 and 962, the Porsche 936 established an extraordinary racing legacy, capturing the World Sports Car Championship and three victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Drawing from years of research for his forthcoming book Secret Spyder – The Porsche 936 Story, Jay will explore the design, development, and competition history of the 936, while highlighting the remarkable stories behind the five chassis ever built. The presentation also offers a fascinating look at one of the most exciting eras of endurance racing, followed by audience questions.

About Jay Gillotti

Jay Gillotti is an automotive historian, author, and lifelong Porsche enthusiast. A resident of the Seattle area for more than 30 years, he has written extensively on Porsche and motorsport history for publications including Panorama, Forza, Vintage Motorsport, 000 Magazine, and the International Motor Racing Research Center.

He has contributed to several respected motorsport books, assisted with the Porsche 917 anniversary presentation at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, helped curate the Porsche 75 exhibit at America’s Car Museum, and has moderated presentations featuring legendary drivers such as Brian Redman, Derek Bell, Hurley Haywood, and Vic Elford.

In 2026, Jay became the Historian for the Porsche Club of America. He is the author of Gulf 917, Porsche Decades, and Secret Spyder – The Porsche 936 Story, releasing in August 2026.

This event is free with Museum admission.