Quick! Can you name an automotive museum? Few of us are graced with the presence of one nearby, so it could be easy to know none. Nonetheless, car museums trace a segment of history that is important beyond the enthusiast, and one of the best is one you possibly haven’t heard of: Stahl’s Motors & Music Experience.
The museum “… began as a personal journey to preserve and celebrate the craftsmanship of the past has grown into a dynamic, nonprofit destination dedicated to education, inspiration, and community.” Since opening 14 years ago, Mary and Ted Stahl have expanded the museum to include cars and automotive ephemera to great success. With a visit, you are also surrounded by a team of passionate professionals who have love for the art, culture, and history of the artifacts within.
Honestly, I visit to view the cars, but I left wanting more time to explore the mechanical musical instruments. Think of automated music like a self-playing piano and you’d be on the right track, but this category of antiques is so much more vibrant, gee-whiz, and amazing than you’ve ever imagined. The above c.1915 Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violino plays piano with violin accompaniment, though there are several violins within the console. It’s truly amazing to hear it make music, which you can do here. Pipe organs and other fangled instruments are also part of the collection.
Nonetheless, the automotive segment of the museum did not disappoint—it’s righteous, an amalgamation of automobiles from the earliest days to more modern times. It certainly is eclectic so there will always be something new for folks to appreciate. There is also ample examples of neon, signs, gas pumps, and other automotive ephemera not unlike what you’d find at a Barrett-Jackson automobilia auction.
Located just north of the Detroit suburbs in Chesterfield, Michigan, Stahl’s Motors & Music Experience is a must-visit destination for Michiganders and those who live near the Great Lake State. It’s truly a special place both for enthusiasts and the significant others who end up being dragged to a museum kicking and screaming yet fall in love with the depth of history within.
