Life in Maine is full of unexpected delights. When I moved here in 1987 I never dreamed that less than three miles from my home was an amazing collection of classic cars. Owner Bob Bahre opens the collection to the public on Paris Hill Founders Day (July 20 this year) as a fundraiser for the Hannibal Hamlin Library. Even if you aren't particularly interested in cars, the collection is well worth seeing.
A view of the lower car barn on Founders Day. Don't miss the upper car barn at the top of the hill.
There are over 70 cars in the collection, ranging from a few fairly recent models to a few nearly a century old to an impressive array of Packards and Duesenbergs. It is easy to be overwhelmed by the display, which covers two buildings and a parking area. My advice is to stop at the top of the hill and enjoy the view and the cars parked below (they look even more beautiful when they are outside).
Then make your way down and take a close look at the details: grilles, side mounts, headlights, hood ornaments. Here are a few of my favorites.
