Rolling along: The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum campus
For over 50 years, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum in Auburn, Ind., has taken its guests on an educational and inspirational journey through the transportation industry and its place in Indiana history. With seven galleries showcasing over 120 cars and related exhibits as well as the adjacent National Auto & Truck Museum, there is plenty for the whole family to see and experience.
A glimpse of Gatsby
The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum is located in the former showroom and administration building that operated on the site from 1900-37. The art deco-style building was designed by Alvin M. Strauss and offers an elegant backdrop to the exhibits, which include: “Car Mascots & Hood Ornaments,” the E.L. Cord Gallery of Entrepreneurship, the Gallery of Excellence and Innovation, The Cars of Indiana Gallery, Gallery of Racers and Record-Setters and the Gallery of Fine Art and Archival Treasures.
One of the highlights of any visit is a tour through the original company showroom featuring a terrazzo floor lit by art deco chandeliers and elegant sconces that highlight the iconic cars with a certain 1920s-30s flair. As visitors step back into time to enjoy the display of Auburns, Cords and Duesenbergs from the Great Gatsby-era, they will likely marvel at the history of the classic automobiles, the state-of-the-art period technology and the luxury and beauty that defined these models and made them highly sought-after collectors’ items.
While paying a visit to the past, aficionados won’t want to miss the John Dillinger Hoosier Hoodlum special exhibit. On Oct. 14, 1933, a portion of Dillinger’s gang, including Walter Dietrich and Harry Copeland, robbed the Auburn Police Department, making off with several bullet-proof vests, ammunition and a variety of weapons – most notably a Thompson submachine gun, aka “Tommy gun.”
The central artifact in the exhibit is that very Tommy gun, which was returned to the Auburn Police Department by the FBI in 2014. Officials decided that the museum was the best place for the weapon so that the public could enjoy it.
According to the museum’s website, its owners have also acquired a 1933 Ford V-8 owned by former Indiana sheriff Lilian Holley, who worked at the Crown Point jail during Dillinger’s short stay – and subsequent escape – in 1934. Looking for a great photo op? Be sure to get a mug shot snapped in front of the museum’s height chart backdrop while holding a traditional placard.
The “Corvette Couple” are travel bloggers who visited the museum in July 2023 and raved about what they found. They said the “hidden gem offers a captivating journey into the world of automotive history,” in an online review.
“The museum’s collection of Auburn, Cord and Duesenberg vehicles is truly exceptional. Each car is a testament to craftsmanship and design excellence, providing a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of automobiles. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering a rich and immersive experience for enthusiasts and history lovers.”
A true landmark
The complex includes the National Auto & Truck Museum, which is a must-see for anyone visiting the main building. Located in the Service/Parts Building as well as the L29/Experimental Building, the National Auto & Truck Museum includes the Auburn Automobile Dealership – the first one in 85 years! It also contains a model and toy gallery, vintage pedal cars, the Gallery of the American Truck Driver and a wide range of original Hudsons. The original factory buildings represent over 130 years of transportation manufacturing and no doubt, everyone will have a favorite by the end of the trip.
The National Auto & Truck Museum is recognized as one of the nation’s best collections of vehicles. Together with the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2005. Visitors can opt for a guided or self-guided tour, and those who have been to both museums say they are a trip worth making.
Maria Roscoe, who is a communications specialist for the Ford Motor Company, enjoyed her time at the National Automotive & Truck Museum and appreciated the friendly volunteers, who were full of knowledge to share.
“We got to learn a lot about the amazing vehicles on display and the history of the building. Only regret is we wish we had more time,” she said a review.
Automobile enthusiasts and those who simply enjoy a peek into Indiana’s past will enjoy a visit to this classic car mecca. While time travel may not be possible, this might be the next best thing, and visitors will gain a greater appreciation for the legacy of several extraordinary automobiles.
If you go…
The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum is located at 1600 S. Wayne Street, Auburn IN 46706
Phone: (260) 925-1444
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
Admission: Adult: $15, Children 6-18: $10, Under 6: Free.
The National Auto & truck Museum is located at 1000 Gordon M. Buehrig Place, Auburn, IN 46706
Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
Admission: Adults: $12, Children 5-12: $7, Active Military: Free with ID.
Campus Rates: (Includes both the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum and the National Auto & Truck Museum)
Adult: $25
Children 6-18: $15
Family: $60
Websites: www.automobilemuseum.org, www.natmus.org
No1: The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum is on the National Register of Historic places along with the National Auto and Truck Museum and is home to several stunning cars from the golden age of automobile manufacturing. ( All photos provided by Julie Young) 
No2: The art deco showroom of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum is a stunning tribute to the Gatsby era and holds several automobiles on its terrazzo floor that are highlighted by vintage chandeliers. No3: The central artifact in the Hoosier Hoodlum display is the Thompson submachine gun, which was returned to the Auburn Police Department in 2014 and subsequently put on display at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum in Auburn, Ind. 
No4: The 1933 Indiana State Police Car was formerly owned by Sheriff Lilian Holley, who worked at the Crown Point jail during John Dillinger’s brief stay in 1934 at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum. Note the vintage prices printed on the side. No5: A powder blue Duesenberg that was supposed to be popular with women drivers is on display at the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum.
