For those of us who live and breathe classic cars, seeing these pieces of history leave the state is a genuine loss. But there’s a place in Wright County working to keep that heritage alive: The Veit Automotive Foundation. More than just a display of hot rods, the Veit Museum celebrates the history, the people, the car clubs, and the entire culture surrounding these iconic vehicles.
Located on a sprawling 500-acre campus just an hour outside of Minneapolis, south of Monticello and conveniently off I-94, the museum offers a unique experience. Our vehicles reside in beautifully crafted, vintage-style barns, specifically designed to showcase their timeless beauty. During the summer months, we open the doors to the foundation’s museum, sharing a broader collection of historical artifacts that tell a richer story.
Currently on display, you’ll find an impressive Tri-Five Chevrolet collection alongside roughly seventy of our nearly two hundred rare and unusual gas pumps. These Tri-Five Chevys, developed by Ed Cole and his team, represent some of the most sought-after models for collectors and hot rodders.
But that’s just the beginning. We also house a remarkable collection of 1933 Ford Model 40s, including the very car that started it all: the original prototype 1932 Ford Model Y designed by E.T. “Bob” Gregorie, the foundation upon which the ’33 Model 40 was built. Another barn houses even more collector vehicles, including stunning Duesenberg Model Js.
The Veit Automotive Foundation’s collection goes far beyond the cars themselves. Inside the museum buildings, you’ll find smaller artifacts that connect the automobiles to their era, weaving a tapestry of Minnesota’s rich automotive history and honoring the local car clubs that keep the passion for these vehicles burning bright. If the history, the craftsmanship, and the car community that define classic car culture in Minnesota is your thing, make sure to check out and support the Veit Museum.
More Information
www.veitauto.org
Check out this WCCO Finding Minnesota segment featuring the Veit Museum