CHICAGO (WBBM Newsradio) – A museum built on one man's passion for cars is preparing for its final lap. The Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum on Chicago's Northwest Side will permanently close next month, with its entire collection heading to the auction block.
Mecum Auctions will oversee the sale of nearly 300 collector vehicles and more than 1,000 pieces of memorabilia during "Larry's Legacy: From the Larry Klairmont Collection," a three-day no-reserve auction set for Sept. 19-21.
The event honors founder Larry Klairmont, a Marine veteran and real estate developer who amassed one of the most eclectic car collections in the country before his death in 2021 at age 94. His holdings once numbered nearly 600 vehicles, many of them stored inside a half-mile-long building in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood.
"It just makes sense to do [the auction] right there where they all sit, right on site, and create an event and celebration of what Larry collected over the years and really celebrate his legacy," said Sam Murtaugh, chief operating officer of Mecum Auctions.
The Golden Sahara IIMecum Auctions
Highlights of the upcoming sale include the futuristic Golden Sahara II, a 1950s custom show car featuring glowing Goodyear tires, as well as a one-of-a-kind 1926 Rickenbacker Eight Super Sport. Movie and television cars will also be offered, including the Batmobile, Scooby-Doo's Mystery Machine and the Munsters' Coffinmobile.
"The vehicles that were amassed in this museum are quite eclectic. They're very unique and interesting, and there's a lot of stories behind them," added Murtaugh.
1926 Rickenbacker Eight Super SportMecum Auctions
Public preview days are scheduled for Sept. 13-14, offering visitors a final chance to tour the museum before its closure. Proceeds from admissions and the sale will support a foundation in Klairmont's name.
More information on the event and registration details can be found here.
