It’s the end of an era in Oxnard, California as the Mullin Automotive Museum has announced plans to close its doors for the final time on February 10.
The museum was founded over a decade ago by Peter and Merle Mullin, who used the facility to showcase their automotive, art, and furniture collection to the public. The historic pieces filled the museum, which boasts nearly 47,000 square feet (4,366 square meters) of exhibition space.
While the museum was a relative newcomer, it quickly established itself as one of the premier automotive museums in America. This was undoubtedly helped by having the “largest private collection of Ettore and Jean Bugatti automobiles in the world.” On top of that, the facility housed Le Mans race cars, an assortment of coachbuilt vehicles, and more than 75 pieces of furniture by Carlo Bugatti.
More: We Visit Mullin’s Auto Museum And Take A Picturesque Look Into The Art Of Bugatti
That’s just scratching the surface, but the museum is closing following Peter’s death last September. However, it will remain open for a few more weeks on a limited basis.
Peter’s memory will thankfully live on as four vehicles have been donated to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Among them are a 1937 Talbot-Lago T150 CS Teardrop coupe, a 1938 Delahaye 145, a 1938 Hispano Suiza Dubonnet, and a 1939 Delahaye 165.
Merle Mullin, the director of the Mullin Automotive Museum, said “Sharing these ‘rolling sculptures’ and beautiful art with others was Peter’s truest passion, and the museum helped bring that vision to life. We are deeply indebted to our staff, docents, volunteers, visitors and supporters who dedicated their time and passion over the past 13 years.” She added her hope is that “past and first-time visitors will have a chance to say goodbye before we close” for one last time.
