The DFW Elite Toy Museum near Fort Worth, Texas, houses Ron Sturgeon’s personal collection of vintage model vehicles, antique toys, and rare artifacts.
Sturgeon’s interest in vehicles has shaped much of his adult life. He began collecting model cars in the 1980s and owned an automotive repair shop in the 1970s. Over time, he assembled a collection of more than 3,000 pieces, including 1/4-scale models, tether cars, driving school trainers, sales demonstration models, and other one-of-a-kind automotive collectibles. The collection is managed with help from a curator due to its scale and specialization.
Sturgeon focuses on rare and antique items, largely avoiding modern reproductions. Notable pieces in the collection include a Tippco “Eva Braun” model car and several early works by Michele Conti, reflecting his selective approach and depth of knowledge as a collector.
Visitors don’t need to be automotive experts to enjoy the museum. The model vehicles offer glimpses into broader historical contexts, and the collection also includes non-automotive curiosities that are both unusual and entertaining. The museum is open to the public, and admission is free.
