Acres of Cars! That is what we saw in this dazzle of an airplane hangar. We were in the 120,000 square foot Tupelo Automobile Museum.
After plunking down our pricey 8 dollar Senior Admission, Adults 10 dollars, we pushed through glassed double doors into a sweeping display of gleaming automotive history.
In precise angled rows over a 100 classic vintage automobiles winked back at us.
Our self guided tour began with an 1886 Benz, the birth of the automobile, which did not have headlights or a steering wheel and only 3 wheels. This 2 seater sported no top and only a handle to push side to side to steer. Admiring the chronological progression, we moved on finally to a 1994 never driven Dodge Viper. In between we investigated a rare Tucker, ogled a Lincoln once owned by Elvis, paused at Packards and drooled over the Duesenberg of Dirk Pitt fame.
When presented with a model unknown to us we peered at the year of manufacture and original cost posted and pressed the button on the information stanchion located in front of all the vehicles. Out poured all the information, including where and when manufactured, who designed, how many manufactured and description of cylinders, horsepower and top speed along with the gas mileage. Good thing gas was cheaper back then.
Tucked in a back corner under a round red and white Magnolia Gasoline sign was Goob’s Garage, a replica of a 1920’s gas station and repair shop. Antique gas pumps peered at us from the front of the country store littered with tires, more signs and a broom. High bright walls surrounded the entire display and boasted classic bright automotive oil and gas signs including Pure Oil and Sinclair Gasoline. Does anyone remember Skelly Gas with skeltane? Numerous historic geometric gas and oil signs peppered the walls along with banners and bright triangular flags.
The sparkling collectable antiques priced at over 6 million belong to Mr. Frank Spain and the museum is in the process of restoring more vehicles which can be viewed through open restoration booths. Hours are from Tuesday to Sunday from 10-6. Rules are tight with no food, gum, drinks, tobacco or photography allowed. For reservations for large groups call 1-662-842-4242.
From journal Weekend Diversion in Tupelo