Klairmont Kollections Tour

By Ken Bounds

Over the years, Larry Klairmont has amassed a collection of over 300 rare and unique vehicles.  They are packed into over 100,000 square feet of display space in a building on the Northwest side of Chicago.  The display settings include a replica of a Packard dealership, the legendary Route 66 Cucamonga gas station, a ‘50s drive in theatre, and much more.

The Log Riders chapter of the National Woodie Club graciously extended an invitation to the NIRG to join them for their “Spring Dustoff” tour to the Kollection.  There would be no dust on that day – it was unseasonably cold, blustery, and rainy outside.  Inside, though, the museum was warm and inviting.

Our group included Ron Blum with friends Glenn Johnson and Peter Kaufman, Ken Bounds, Ron Dopke, Scott, Nicole and Ciena Gilday, John Judge, Frank Madrigali, Pat Maroney, and Ron Steck and friend Larry Hunkele.

Our greeter at the Kollection gave us a rundown of what to expect inside and a description of the displays on two fabulous floors.  Then we were off on our own to discover some incredible, many one-of-a-kind vehicles from the past 100 years along with detailed displays to show them off.  In one room there is a delightful video of Larry detailing his interesting life, his service to our Country in the Marines during World War II, his career, and the story of how his collection came about.

Our tour included a lunch break where we were treated to delicious Italian beef sandwiches, turkey sandwiches and variety of salads.

After lunch there was more time to wander through more rooms filled with vehicles and memories.

Our thanks to Larry Klairmont and his staff, as well as to the Log Riders for inviting us on this fun tour.

A Few More Photos - How Do You Pick From Over 300 Cars?