Nestled in the heart of Port Townsend, Washington, Bergstrom’s Antique & Classic Autos isn’t your typical car dealership. It’s a captivating time capsule where automotive history comes to life, a must-visit destination for classic car enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A Museum Disguised as a Dealership
Founded in 1979 by Robin Bergstrom, this unique establishment seamlessly blends a classic car dealership with a captivating museum. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by an eclectic collection of vintage automobiles, some for sale and others proudly displayed as part of Bergstrom’s personal collection.
Bergstrom’s passion for classic cars began in his youth while working at his family’s department store. When the store was sold, he decided to turn his lifelong love for automobiles into a career. His decision proved to be a gift to Port Townsend, transforming the town into a hub for classic car aficionados.
More Than Just a Pretty Face: Serving the Local Car Community
While the museum-like atmosphere attracts visitors from far and wide, Bergstrom’s remains deeply rooted in the local community. The shop provides essential parts and services to local classic car owners, ensuring these cherished vehicles remain roadworthy.
“The locals have really helped to keep this business going with their need for parts,” Bergstrom shared in an interview with KPTZ radio. “But most of the cars are sold outside of town” – often finding new homes across the country and even internationally (McNellis, 2017).
A Treasure Trove of Automotive History
Bergstrom’s isn’t just about buying and selling classic cars. It’s about preserving automotive history. The walls are lined with an impressive collection of vintage car parts, owner’s manuals, model cars, and magazines, each piece telling a story of a bygone era.
The shop’s commitment to the classic car community extends beyond its walls. Bergstrom’s actively supports local car culture, helping publicize events like the annual car show, a testament to their dedication to fostering a vibrant community of car lovers.
A YouTube Star’s Dream Garage
Marco Savarise, a YouTube personality known for his automotive adventures, featured Bergstrom’s in one of his videos, offering viewers a virtual tour of the shop’s impressive inventory.
From a late-1930s Ford and a sleek 1954 Chevrolet to a charming Morris Minor wagon and a powerful circa-1971 Mustang, the diverse collection showcased in Savarise’s video (2019) exemplifies the breadth and quality of automobiles available at Bergstrom’s.
Savarise, clearly smitten with the shop, exclaimed during the video, “I’d never leave here. I’d have to get a cot or a really nice comfy bed or something.” His sentiment is echoed by many who visit Bergstrom’s, a testament to the shop’s enchanting atmosphere.
The Allure of Bergstrom’s: A Destination for Every Season
Port Townsend, a charming town steeped in history, sees its economy thrive on tourism. Bergstrom’s, with its unique appeal, plays a significant role in attracting visitors year-round.
As Bergstrom explained to KPTZ, the shop’s ambiance shifts with the seasons. “In summer we have more people thinking that the shop is more of a museum, so we are entertaining a lot of people,” he said. “In the wintertime it’s more what we would call hard core, so it’s locals and people coming in to work on the cars.” (McNellis, 2017).
What’s Next for Bergstrom’s?
While the future plans for Bergstrom’s haven’t been publicly announced, one can only hope that this local gem continues to thrive, captivating visitors with its unique blend of automotive history, community spirit, and undeniable charm.
FAQs About Bergstrom’s Classic Car Museum
What is Bergstrom’s Antique & Classic Autos known for?
Bergstrom’s is renowned as a unique hybrid of a classic car dealership and a museum, offering a wide selection of vintage automobiles, parts, and memorabilia.
Who founded Bergstrom’s?
Robin Bergstrom, a lifelong car enthusiast, founded the shop in 1979.
Where is Bergstrom’s located?
The shop is located in Port Townsend, Washington.
What types of cars can I find at Bergstrom’s?
Bergstrom’s offers an eclectic mix of classic cars, ranging from American muscle cars to European imports and everything in between.
Does Bergstrom’s just sell cars?
No, Bergstrom’s also sells vintage car parts, owner’s manuals, model cars, and magazines. They also actively support the local classic car community by participating in events like the annual car show.
Have there been any interesting features on Bergstrom’s?
Yes, YouTube personality Marco Savarise featured Bergstrom’s in a video, offering a virtual tour of the shop and its inventory.
What is the best time to visit Bergstrom’s?
Bergstrom’s is open year-round, with a more museum-like atmosphere in the summer and a focus on local car enthusiasts in the winter.
Stay tuned for more stories about Bergstrom’s and other hidden automotive gems! Share your thoughts and comments below – we’d love to hear about your experiences with classic cars!
RE:SOURCES
- McNellis, Maryanne; 2017. “#90 Robin Bergstrom of Bergstrom’s Antiques & Classic Autos.” KPTZ. Program first aired July 4.
- Savarise, Marco; 2019. “Bergstrom’s Classic & Antique Autos – Port Townsend WA Dec 2018.” Accessed Aug. 8.
