Join us on November 11, 2025, for the opening of our newest temporary exhibit, Shelby.

The name Carroll Shelby holds a vaulted position in automobile history. As a race car driver, his win at the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans was the pinnacle of his racing career. A heart condition forced him to retire in 1960. Shelby dreamed of building a car combining the reliability of an American made engine and the handling and balance of European cars. A deal with Ford Motor Co. allowed Shelby to open Shelby American in 1962 to produce the Cobra, and the rest is history. After “retiring” in 1970, Shelby went on to create the first Championship Chili Cook Off, and the Shelby Wheel Company, makers of aftermarket specialty wheels. In 1978 Detroit came calling and Shelby enjoyed a 7-year run working with the Chrysler Corp. As a heart transplant recipient, Shelby established the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation in 1991 to help children with similar life-threatening health issues. Featured in this exhibition are some of his automotive successes.

The exhibit will be on display on November 11, 2025 – March 1, 2026.