Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum — Attraction in Asheville

The Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum is a hidden gem!

After being closed since Hurricane Helene, Grovewood Village reopened this past Monday. I spent several hours exploring the complex, exhibits, and art galley while learning the history of the Village which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of the buildings open to the public is the Antique Car Museum. Housed in a a building which originally was part of Biltmore Estate's textile center, a local car dealer repurposed the space in the 1960's for his vintage and rare car collection. If you are a car or a history buff, you will be fascinated by the cars generously shared by the family who owns them. The first four decades of car design are well-represented here--from a Model T Ford (1913) to a shiny Edsel Corsair (1959)--and the stories behind them. These cars are works of art. Would you like to see which car Elvis bought for his mom? It's here. A car with a connection to Bob Hope? Yep. How about a rare, hand-built Cadillac with a retractable antenna and stainless steel roof and trim? It's here too. I particularly enjoyed my time with the historian who watches over the museum. Though it was close to closing time when I visited, he stopped what he was doing to share the history of this remarkable place and presented me with a postcard and a sticker as souvenirs of my enjoyable time here. It was a joy to visit with someone so gracious about sharing his passion for this place. Though admission is free, they ask for a $5 donation and take cash or credit cards. It is deal of the decade! Your gift goes to the upkeep of the museum for future...

I’ve been doing a little Auto photography so naturally my research led me here Monday. The Cars were (as expected) completely phenomenal. However what left the overall lasting impression was the guide at the front door. At first I thought the gentleman (Heath) had memorized all the history of the automobile industry for the job. This man had a true passion not only for the history of the automotive industry…. But the impact it had on the entirety of Asheville’s infrastructure including all the local landmarks that played key roles in the cities development. The intricate stories of old Asheville’s elite society border on tales of mystery and secrets coursing with a history far more rich than I had ever thought to imagine. And I’m from here. It was a true pleasure meeting Heath today, checking out his shop, and being privileged to hear some fantastic story telling. Don’t quit your day job… no really, don’t. Cause they need...

Closed for winter... Your buisness is inside a building though? Ya lazy hippie. 🤔 Hmm, upon reading your sincerely worded reply, I will add a star. Also, I concede that my "lazy hippie" crack maybe a bit harsh. While I can appreciate the sharing of this private cache of history is generous & heating an old building isn't cheap. I am not niave enough to buy the labor of love act. Every successful politician has at least one non-profit. Very often this endeavor is a highly lucrative arrangement for said philanthropist, much moreso than is ever publicly acknowledged. Not shaming, just not failing for the story Bubba. I'm sure you have an interesting exhibit, maybe I'll stop in...