Travel north from Atlanta and you’ll find a unique treasure hidden in the woods. That’s Old Car City—a sprawling 34-acre junkyard and open-air museum where automotive history comes alive. With over 4,000 cars, some dating back to the 1930s, this is the largest classic car junkyard in the world. It’s not just about the cars; it’s also about the stories they tell and the nature that surrounds them.
Old Car City started as a general store in 1931 run by the Lewis family. When World War II hit, materials were scarce and the store transitioned into a salvage yard, selling parts from discarded cars. Back in the ’70s, there were only about 40 cars on the lot. But as time went on, the collection grew, and now it’s a vibrant museum with nature and rusted cars blending beautifully. You can walk through the trails and see how trees now coexist with classic vehicles, creating an interplay of history and nature.
Dean “Mayor” Lewis, who grew up surrounded by cars, took over the family business and decided not to sell parts anymore. Instead, he wanted to preserve the vehicles as a way to honor their history. Over the years, he bought up many damaged and abandoned cars, turning Old Car City into a beloved destination. His passion made it tough to part with even one vehicle, leading him to focus on creating a unique experience rather than traditional salvage work.
As you stroll down six miles of trails, you’ll discover cars from different eras, especially the ’50s and ’60s, the golden age of American automobiles. The collection includes rarities, like a Lincoln Mark V and a truck featured in a Johnny Cash film. It’s like walking through a living museum where each car represents a piece of American culture and history.
However, not everyone is on board with the concept of Old Car City. Some car enthusiasts believe these vehicles deserve restoration and use, rather than living out their days in a junkyard. Take, for example, a 1968 Dodge Coronet Super Bee, which could sell for over $100,000 if restored. The debate continues about whether it’s better for these classics to be preserved in their current state or restored to their former glory.
The passion for classic cars is reflected in other trends too, including a rise in online auctions and gourmet restoration services. According to a 2021 survey by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, 79% of automotive enthusiasts said they prefer original parts over replicas when restoring classic cars. This underscores a larger movement that places value on authenticity and preserving history.
In the end, whether you see Old Car City as a treasure trove or a graveyard, it’s undeniably a fascinating slice of American history, entwined with nature and nostalgia. Here, cars aren’t just metal and rubber; they represent stories, dreams, and a love for the open road.
