Worth a Detour
Enter the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum at Grovewood Village and you’ll instantly be transported back in time to the romance-filled days of wooden steering wheels and polished brass headlamps.
Established in 1966, this historic attraction was founded by local legend Harry D. Blomberg, Asheville’s Cadillac-Pontiac dealer for over half a century and founder of modern-day Harry’s On The Hill. The museum features Harry’s prized collection of antique and vintage automobiles, including a rare 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham and Asheville’s own 1922 American LaFrance fire truck.
Admission
Admission to the car museum is free, but for those who can, a $5 donation is greatly appreciated. Your contribution helps us to maintain our collection for future generations of antique auto lovers.
| Year | Vehicle Description |
| 1913 | Ford Model T (Tin Lizzie) - Currently on display at The Grove Park Inn |
| 1914 | Ford Model T Touring Car (Copperhead) |
| 1917 | Willys Overland Touring |
| 1922 | American LaFrance Fire Truck (Type 75) |
| 1923 | REO Touring |
| 1925 | Dodge Touring |
| 1926 | Cadillac Seven-Passenger Touring Sedan |
| 1927 | LaSalle Phaeton |
| 1928 | Chandler Sedan |
| 1928 | Pontiac Sedan |
| 1929 | Chevrolet Sedan |
| 1930 | Ford Model A Coupe (with rumble seat) |
| 1932 | Chevrolet Coupe |
| 1940 | Buick Century |
| 1940 | Packard Coupe |
| 1950 | MG TD Roadster |
| 1954 | Cadillac Sedan |
| 1957 | Cadillac Eldorado Brougham |
| 1959 | Edsel Corsair |
Meet the Man Behind the Museum
Asheville native Harry Blomberg (1904–1991) got his start in the automobile industry in 1923 when he was just 19 years old, opening one of the first filling stations in town. Learn about this local legend and the story of how an old moonshine still (on display in the museum) inspired Harry to save Biltmore Industries, an important part of Asheville’s story.
Did You Know?
Before there were cars here, there were looms. Constructed in 1923, this building originally housed Biltmore Industries’ weaving shop, where 40+ looms were in steady operation, producing bolts of some of the finest handwoven wool fabric in the country. Customers included Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Helen Keller, and several U.S. presidents and first ladies.
Be Sure to Look Up!
Cars aren’t the only stars at this attraction. The museum also features two custom-made Roycroft chandeliers (circa 1918) designed by Karl Kipp – creator of some of the most sought-after metalwork of the Arts and Crafts movement. They originally hung in Overlook, a stone castle with a storied past, still standing just a few miles from here.
You’ll also notice thought-provoking quotes and mottos inscribed on the museum’s overhead beams and chandeliers. These were placed up at the direction of Fred Loring Seely (then-manager of Biltmore Industries) and chosen to serve as inspirations for his employees.
Accessibility
Our museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has largely remained unaltered. There are two steps at the entrance of our building, but we can bring out a portable ramp for wheelchair access. Unfortunately, the lower level of our museum is not wheelchair accessible.
One handicap parking space is available in the lot next to the museum. Visitor drop-off and pickup is permitted at the museum’s main entrance.
Rent The Museum
Bring your event to life in a unique, historic setting. Whether it’s an anniversary, vow renewal, or a cocktail party to celebrate your birthday, we can offer an experience your guests will never forget.
Mountaineer Motor Tours
If you want a truly authentic Asheville experience, look no further! Asheville native Heath Towson, one of our museum docents, launched his passion project, Mountaineer Motor Tours, in 2022. Heath is a wealth of knowledge regarding local history and cars. Ride along with him and explore scenic backroads and the bustling downtown Asheville area in a 1923 Ford Model T, your time machine to the past.