Antique Toy Collectors Discover World's Largest Collection at DFW Car & Toy Museum

Antique toy collectors from across the United States converged on Fort Worth this week for an extraordinary exploration of vintage playthings at the DFW Car & Toy Museum. The museum, founded by passionate collector Ron Sturgeon, houses what experts are calling potentially the world's largest antique toy collection.

The 150,000 square foot facility features more than 3,000 vintage toys alongside 200 classic and exotic cars, creating a comprehensive museum experience that celebrates mechanical and playful history. Dale Kelley, publisher of Antique Toy World magazine, emphasized the collection's significance, noting its unprecedented scale and rarity.

Jeanne Bertoia from Bertoia Auctions praised the museum's commitment to toy preservation, highlighting its importance in maintaining cultural memory. The collection spans multiple eras and materials, including early tin, wood, paper, and cast iron toys that represent decades of technological and design evolution.

Museum founder Ron Sturgeon, who began collecting toys in 1985, sees the exhibits as more than static displays. He believes the museum creates powerful emotional connections, allowing visitors to reconnect with cherished memories through carefully preserved playthings from past generations.

Beyond toys, the museum offers a rich exploration of automotive history, vintage coin-operated machines, and nostalgic decor. Its comprehensive approach provides visitors with an immersive journey through technological and cultural transitions of the 20th century.

The museum's accessibility is noteworthy, offering free admission and welcoming families—including dogs—to explore its extensive collections. Located in North Fort Worth, the facility operates Tuesday through Saturday, providing ample opportunity for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to experience this remarkable preservation of play and transportation history.