Chicago is about to lose one of its most unique automotive treasures. The Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum, home to nearly 300 rare and unusual rides, will close its doors for good in September—and every single vehicle inside is heading to Mecum’s auction block.
The sell-off, dubbed Larry’s Legacy by Mecum, will take place September 19–21, 2025, just one week after the museum shuts down. For Midwestern car fans, it’s the end of an era.
From Personal Garage to Midwest Landmark
The late Larry Klairmont built his fortune in the cleaning business before turning to real estate, which gave him the space—and budget—to indulge in a serious passion for collecting cars. What started as “overflow storage” for his personal purchases grew into a sprawling museum that, by 2017, was billed as the largest public car collection in the Midwest.
Klairmont’s taste was eclectic. Sure, the museum had the staples—muscle cars, hot rods, and pristine classics—but it also showcased oddities, one-offs, and pop culture legends. After Larry’s passing in 2021, his partner managed the museum, but with his absence, the chapter is now closing.
What’s Up for Auction
The Mecum sale will feature 295 vehicles along with motorcycles, scooters, and memorabilia. Among the headliners:
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Two Batmobiles — one from the Adam West TV era, one inspired by Michael Keaton’s big-screen version.
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“Black Beauty” Imperial — the sleek vigilante car from The Green Hornet.
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The Mystery Machine — yes, that van from Scooby-Doo.
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2002 Lincoln Continental Concept — powered by an Aston Martin V12 and complete with its original set of bespoke luggage.
For collectors, this is a rare chance to score cars that rarely surface outside of private holdings.
Why It Matters
Klairmont Kollections wasn’t just another display of shiny sheet metal—it was a curated mix of history, culture, and personal passion. Museum regulars remember it for its variety: a place where you could stand between a vintage Ferrari and a cartoon van and not feel out of place.
With the entire collection selling in one weekend, it’s expected to draw bidders from across the country—and maybe even overseas. Given the market for unique and well-documented collector cars, some of these lots could spark bidding wars that make headlines.
If You Go (or Bid)
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Auction Dates: September 19–21, 2025
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Location: Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum
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Bidding: Only registered bidders and ticketed spectators
Bottom line: Chicago is losing a rolling time capsule, but for car lovers with the budget—and maybe a big enough garage—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime buying opportunity.
Catch our full collector car auction preview now on My Car Show Radio.
Tags: Klairmont Kollections, car museum, Mecum auction, collector cars, Chicago auto news, Larry Klairmont
