It’s not every day that one of America’s most respected car museums quietly shuts its doors. Hidden in the heart of Chicago, this automotive treasure has fascinated visitors for years with vehicles most people never even knew existed.
Now, the entire collection, nearly 300 rare and historic cars, will soon be distributed to new homes. Why is it closing? And what will happen to its irreplaceable machines?
While the answers are slowly coming into focus, one thing is certain: collectors and enthusiasts are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But before you hear the full story, let’s step inside this remarkable place.
A Museum Like No Other
The Klairmont Kollections has been a fixture in Chicago’s car scene for almost 15 years. From the outside, the building is unassuming.
Inside, visitors find an extraordinary variety of vehicles, from pre-war classics to futuristic prototypes, meticulously preserved. The museum’s focus has always been on rare, historically significant cars that tell unique stories.
Whispers of Change
In early summer, regular visitors noticed something strange. The museum’s website posted an unexplained closure notice. Its social media pages disappeared, and the official website went offline.
Rumors spread quickly in Chicago’s tight-knit automotive community. Theories ranged from renovations to financial trouble, but few expected the truth to emerge weeks later.
The Big Announcement
In August, it was confirmed that Klairmont Kollections would close permanently on September 14, 2025. Just days later, nearly 300 cars, plus over 1,000 pieces of road art, will be sold through Mecum Auctions.
The event, called “Larry’s Legacy,” will run from September 19 to 21, attracting collectors from around the world.
The Man Behind It All
The museum was the vision of Larry M. Klairmont, a decorated World War II veteran turned entrepreneur. Born in 1926 to a poor Chicago family, he built his fortune in dry cleaning and real estate.
His success allowed him to pursue his lifelong passion, collecting rare and remarkable cars from around the globe.
From Private Passion to Public Museum
By the late 2000s, Klairmont had amassed over 600 cars stored across various properties. In 2011, partner Joyce Oberlander encouraged him to consolidate the best of his collection into a 100,000-square-foot former printing facility. At first, it was open for private events. In 2018, it became a public non-profit museum.
A Collector’s Eye for the Unusual
Klairmont’s tastes went beyond the typical muscle cars and sports cars. His collection included microcars, electric prototypes, and one-off experimental designs.
Many were restored to immaculate condition, often better than when they first left the factory. Visitors could see vehicles that would never appear in ordinary car shows.
The Golden Sahara II
One highlight headed to auction is the Golden Sahara II, a futuristic custom car that stunned audiences in the late 1950s.
It featured unique gold-plated trim, translucent tires, and innovative electronics. This car is considered one of the most important custom creations in American automotive history.
Rarity in Every Corner
Among the auction’s rarities is a 1926 Rickenbacker Eight Super Sport, believed to be the last of its kind. There’s also a 1947 Tatra T87, a Czechoslovakian masterpiece known for its streamlined design. Many of these cars have few, if any, surviving examples in similar condition.
Concept Cars and Oddities
The collection isn’t just about historic production cars. It includes concept vehicles like the 2002 Lincoln Continental Concept Sedan and one-offs like the 1960 Ford Fairlane “Spaceliner.” Each represents a different era’s future vision, from sleek luxury to space-age design experiments.
The Vortex X-2000
One of the most unusual vehicles is the 1962 Vortex X-2000, a three-wheeled, delta-shaped car designed by Jerry Woodward.
Built over six years, it featured TV speakers in the headrests and was claimed to handle 90-degree turns at high speed. Only one was ever made.
Microcars and More
Klairmont had a special interest in microcars, including the 1959 Goggomobile Dart Roadster and various vintage Vespas.
While small in size, these vehicles represent important chapters in automotive history, especially during the post-war years when efficiency and affordability were paramount.
Over 1,000 Pieces of Road Art
Beyond the cars, the auction will offer a vast selection of road art, including vintage signs, gas pumps, and automotive memorabilia.
These often overlooked items have become increasingly valuable to collectors and serve as a visual record of motoring culture.
A Legacy in Transition
The closure follows the 2021 passing of Larry Klairmont. His family has decided to pass on the vehicles and memorabilia to new owners.
While no public explanation has been given for the decision, it marks the end of a significant chapter in Chicago’s automotive history.
Final Days to Visit
The museum will open its doors for just two final public days: September 13 and 14, 2025. These will also serve as preview days for registered bidders to see the vehicles in person before the auction. Proceeds from these last tickets will benefit the Larry’s Legacy Foundation.
The Auction Schedule
Mecum Auctions will conduct the sale over three days, from September 19 to 21. Cars, microcars, scooters, and road art will be sold in various lots. Serious collectors, casual enthusiasts, and even first-time buyers are expected to attend or bid online.
Expected Prices
Many of the rarest cars are likely to reach prices well beyond what most enthusiasts can afford. However, smaller items, such as road art and scooters, may go for accessible amounts, giving a wider audience a chance to own a piece of the Klairmont Kollections.
Preservation of History
Automotive museums like Klairmont play a vital role in preserving history. Once these cars disperse into private collections, public access may become limited.
This auction represents both an ending and a beginning; an opportunity for preservation through new ownership.
Interest from Around the World
Collectors from multiple countries have shown interest in the auction. Its mix of rare American classics, unusual imports, and unique custom builds appeals to a wide range of buyers. Mecum expects global participation through its online bidding platform.
The Final Drive
When the gavel falls on the last lot, the Klairmont Kollections will be gone from Chicago’s landscape. Yet, its influence will continue through the cars and memorabilia now in the hands of those who appreciate their value. This is the last chance for car lovers to see a collection that may never be gathered in one place again.