Exploring the Roush Automotive Collection in Livonia
In the heart of Livonia, Michigan, lies a unique treasure for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Roush Automotive Collection is a large garage that showcases around 115 classic cars, many of which are symbols of the auto industry’s rich heritage. This impressive assortment of vehicles is not only a tribute to one of the most recognizable figures in NASCAR and automotive history, Jack Roush, but also a celebration of the fascinating stories behind each car.
A Family Legacy on Display
As visitors step into the Roush Automotive Collection, they are greeted with a remarkable centerpiece: a shiny silver Mustang known as “Old Crow”. This car is a nod to Brig. Gen. Bud Anderson, a legendary World War II pilot who famously flew four P-51 Mustangs. Anderson, who passed away recently at the age of 102, even left his signature on this special vehicle. Dale McClenaghan, who guided us through the collection, explained, “This car was designed as a tribute to Bud and his planes, reflecting my father-in-law’s passion for both aviation and automotive engineering.”
Jack Roush, now 82, is well-known as the founder of RFK Racing and was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2019. His extensive contributions to the industry extend far beyond racing; he also oversees Roush Performance Products and Roush CleanTech, which focuses on alternative fuel systems. Despite his prominence, Roush’s family ties shine brightly, as his daughter, Susan Roush McClenaghan, manages the collection and has her own remarkable achievements as a six-time national champion drag racer.
A Glimpse into Automotive History
Each car in the Roush Automotive Collection has a unique story to tell. From Roush’s formative days in racing—where he built, raced, and ultimately sold a car in 1971 to fund his future endeavors—to the collection of retired NASCAR race cars from the 1980s and beyond, the cars represent a living history of the auto industry. According to Tyler Wolfe, the archivist and curatorial associate at the collection, they were once housed in smaller, less accessible locations. In 2000, the collection found its permanent home in a spacious 30,000-square foot facility.
A Collection with Purpose
The Roush Automotive Collection serves multiple purposes. It is not only a showcase for fans and visitors but also a venue for corporate events connected to Roush Industries. The collection is largely comprised of old NASCAR vehicles, with nearly 40 retired race cars that had seen action on the tracks.
More Than Just Cars
The collection also includes an intriguing piece of memorabilia: the wreckage of Jack Roush’s first airplane crash, reminding visitors of how unpredictable life can be. Roush not only survived this incident but went on to become a renowned pilot before his second crash in 2002. His survival was thanks to the quick actions of a retired Marine who happened to be in the area that day.
A Community Connection
The Roush Automotive Collection is open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This accessibility allows fans of all ages to learn about not only the cars but the legacies behind them. Many of these vehicles have competed at renowned events and represent a shared passion for fast cars and motorsports.
A Love Story in Racing
In a charming twist, Susan met her husband Dale at a roller skating rink near the Roush Automotive Collection in 1979. The couple’s shared love for cars has contributed to unique memories and experiences as they reminisce about their racing journeys together. Both Dale and Susan have contributed significantly to the history presented in the collection with their own vehicles, including custom drag racers.
Among the treasures, the collection features the 1969 Mustang convertible that played a pivotal role in Jack Roush’s rise within the racing world. This car was entered into the National Hot Rod Association U.S. Nationals in 1971, leading Roush to secure a victory. After being temporarily lost, it resurfaced, and Susan successfully acquired it to restore its legacy.
A Preservation of History
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the Roush Automotive Collection stands as a steadfast reminder of the car culture that has defined Detroit and influenced countless individuals. Whether visitors are car aficionados, history lovers, or simply curious, this collection has something for everyone. It’s an inviting space that tells a story not just about cars, but about the dreams, challenges, and triumphs of those who built this renowned empire. With an eye firmly set on the future, the collection remains a beacon of passion and innovation, preserving the remarkable history of American motorsports for generations to come.
