Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, Massachusetts
Larz Anderson Park, located near Harvard's Arnold Arboretum, houses the oldest automotive collection in the United States. This collection is situated within a Victorian-era carriage house, a significant feature of the relatively small park. The park and its museum are named after Larz Anderson, a French-born American diplomat with a distinguished career. Anderson married Isabel Weld Perkins, who inherited considerable wealth, and together they developed a passion for collecting vehicles.From 1899 until Larz's death in 1937, the couple amassed an impressive collection of cars, carriages, and sleighs. While many were sold after Larz's passing, fourteen cars remain in their original, unrestored state. These surviving vehicles, mostly from before World War I, provide a unique glimpse into early automotive history. Some are even the last known examples of their kind globally.The untouched condition of these automobiles makes them akin to time capsules, preserving their historical integrity. The Andersons began publicly displaying their collection in 1927, and the museum was formally established after Isabel's death in 1948. The museum continues to expand its collection with new acquisitions, which are regularly rotated on display. Although not the largest, the Larz Anderson Auto Museum is distinguished by its continuously maintained collection originating from 1899, making it the nation's oldest. The grand interior of the carriage house further enhances the viewing experience for enthusiasts of vintage and antique cars.