The DFW Car and Toy Museum will welcome members of the Antique Toy Collectors of America (ATCA) for their annual convention on May 5, 2025, offering a unique opportunity for toy collecting enthusiasts to explore one of the most comprehensive vintage toy collections in the United States.
Founded in 1965, the ATCA has evolved from a national organization to a global community of collectors passionate about preserving and celebrating antique toys. The museum's extensive collection, featuring over 3,000 toys dating back to the late 19th century, provides an exceptional backdrop for the organization's annual gathering.
The museum's collection is particularly noteworthy for its diverse range of vintage toys, including rare German manufacturers like Marklin and Tippco, as well as significant American and Japanese toy specimens. Visitors will have the opportunity to view early patent models, salesman samples, and specialized exhibits including a dedicated Monopoly gallery and an impressive array of robots and model race cars.
Located in North Fort Worth, the museum represents a significant expansion from its previous location in Haltom City. The new 150,000-square-foot facility not only houses an impressive collection of over 200 cars and 3,000 toys but also offers free admission and parking, making it accessible to toy enthusiasts and automotive lovers alike.
Museum founder Ron Sturgeon, who began his automotive career working on Volkswagen vehicles 50 years ago, has curated a collection that reflects his lifelong passion for automotive and toy history. The museum's collection includes more than 35 Volkswagens, highlighting Sturgeon's deep connection to automotive culture.
For ATCA members attending the convention, the museum offers a unique experience with permission to browse the entire collection and take photographs. This open approach reflects the museum's commitment to sharing and preserving historical artifacts with collectors and the public.
The convention represents more than just a gathering; it is a celebration of toy collecting as a form of historical preservation. By bringing together collectors from around the world, the event underscores the cultural and historical significance of vintage toys and their role in understanding technological and social developments of past eras.
