RICHMOND, Ind. – The Model T Museum is expanding as both a historical attraction and educational resource in Richmond’s Depot District.

Operated in conjunction with the Model T Ford Club of America as the headquarters of the national organization, the museum highlights the legacy of the Model T and its role in shaping modern transportation.

“It’s the little car that put the world on wheels,” said Carrie Sweigart, Operations Manager.

The club, founded in 1965, has grown into a global organization with more than 5,000 members and roughly 108 chapters in the United States and countries including Canada, Germany, Australia and New Zealand.

The museum in Richmond was established in 2007 after a group of enthusiasts launched the collection with just a handful of vehicles.

“It started with just five Model Ts,” said Justin Mitchell, Senior Docent & Head Researcher.

Since then, the museum has expanded significantly. After receiving its current building in 2012 and acquiring an additional property in 2017, the collection now includes more than 40 Model Ts, along with tractors, an airplane and various exhibits.

“We now have over 40 Model Ts, two tractors, the airplane, speedsters, tons of displays,” Sweigart said. “It continues to grow and we have a very big need to expand.”

Museum staff say education and outreach are central to their mission, particularly in telling the story of Henry Ford and his impact on mobility. Sweigart noted Ford’s innovation extended to production, with vehicles coming off the assembly line at a rapid pace.

“He was producing a Model T off the assembly line every 25 seconds,” Sweigart said.

Unlike many traditional museums, the facility encourages interactive learning experiences, allowing visitors to engage more directly with exhibits.

“We have a simulator, we have a cutaway engine, so we can really go into detail exactly how a Model T runs,” Mitchell said.

Visitors can also participate in a driving program.

“For a $50 fee you get 45 minutes’ worth of instruction, at least 15 minutes of that is behind the wheel,” Mitchell said.

Staff say the museum has evolved from what was once considered a small roadside attraction into a destination for dedicated enthusiasts. When the museum first opened, it was located off I-70 next to Warm Glow Candle Company.

“We used to be called a tourist trap,” said Mitchell. “We’ve grown in my opinion exponentially… it’s less of a time waster. I always tell people, I want people that want to be here.”

The museum has also gained broader recognition from visitors, ranked number one on TripAdvisor for the area.

As a nonprofit, the museum relies on donations and admissions to operate. “Every single piece that we have is donated or on loan,” said Sweigart.

Items in the collection range from fully restored vehicles to parts, documents and historical artifacts.

Both Sweigart and Mitchell say interest in Model Ts continues to grow, particularly among younger generations.

“I’ve had some great conversations recently with kids in their 20s and teens,” Sweigart said. “…his grandson just bought his very first Model T and he’s 16 years old.”

The museum is also working to expand its presence within the local community through events and partnerships, including its annual homecoming celebration in August.

"We're members of the Historic Depot District. We're also members of the Wayne County Chamber, working closely with the Wayne County Foundation and of course the local community."

The museum also participates in events such as trunk-or-treats, wine walks, business expos and internship programs.

In addition to local outreach, the organization also connects with its global membership through its long-running Vintage Ford Magazine. 

The magazine highlights news, restoration projects, historical features, and updates.

As it approaches its 20th anniversary in 2027, museum leaders are preparing to welcome dozens of vehicles and visitors from across the country.

For now, staff say continued growth depends on public support. “The more people that come, the greater the experience… the more exhibits we can do, the more cars we can fit,” Sweigart said.

Find more information on the museum's website.