Old Car City, located north of Atlanta, Georgia, has gained recognition as the world’s largest classic car junkyard, spanning an impressive 34 acres. Visitors can explore a vast collection of over 4,000 cars, many of which date back to the 1930s. This unique destination has evolved beyond a simple junkyard; it now serves as an open-air museum, showcasing a remarkable intersection of nature and automotive history.
Stepping into Old Car City resembles entering a living testament to America’s automotive past. The grounds feature a natural trail that winds through rows of rusting vehicles, providing visitors with a glimpse into the golden age of American cars. The entrance fee is $30 per person, and navigating the expansive area requires a fair amount of physical fitness, as it takes several hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection.
From General Store to Museum
Old Car City’s origins trace back to 1931 when the Lewis family opened a general store that offered everything from clothing to gasoline. The transition to a salvage yard occurred during World War II, driven by shortages of rubber and metal. Recognizing a market opportunity, the family repurposed their store into a salvage yard, initially gathering a modest selection of vehicles.
In the 1970s, the collection consisted of only 40 cars, but as interest grew, so did the inventory. The current owner, Dean “Mayor” Lewis, decided to transform the yard into a museum rather than continuing the sale of salvage parts. Under Dean’s stewardship, Old Car City became a sanctuary for classic cars, where nature mingles with history.
Dean Lewis, affectionately nicknamed “Mayor” for his deep-rooted connection to the site, spent years acquiring damaged and abandoned vehicles. His approach involved purchasing cars from a variety of sources, including private sellers and salvage auctions. Over time, the collection expanded to the point where he had to acquire additional land to accommodate the growing number of vehicles.
A Journey Through Automotive History
Walking through Old Car City is akin to traversing through a timeline of American automotive history. The collection primarily features vehicles from the 1950s and 1960s, an era often regarded as the zenith of American automobile production. Among the notable cars is a Lincoln Mark V and a 1946 Ford truck, which gained fame by appearing in the 1983 film “Murder in Coweta County,” starring Johnny Cash and Andy Griffith.
The site also promotes a sense of community, as evidenced by the presence of local resident Fast Eddie McDaniel, a childhood friend of Dean. Visitors may find Fast Eddie playing the blues at the museum, adding a unique charm to the experience.
While many automotive enthusiasts appreciate the artistic value and historical significance of Old Car City, opinions about the preservation of these cars vary. Some believe that these vehicles should be restored and returned to the road, while others find merit in the idea of showcasing them in their current state. Controversy arises particularly around rare models, such as the 1968 Dodge Coronet Super Bee, which could potentially fetch over $100,000 if restored.
Old Car City stands as a remarkable fusion of automotive history and natural beauty, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of American vehicles. It invites exploration, nostalgia, and contemplation about the stories of each car that once roamed the roads, now resting peacefully among the trees.
