Car nuts from all over the country will descend to Michael Dingman's estate in Kensington, N.H., next weekend. That's because Dingman, the former director for Ford Motor Co., amassed a huge collection of vintage cars and other highway memorabilia.
The big treasure, according to the New Hampshire Union-Leader, will be a 1940 Lincoln-Zephyr Continental Cabriolet onced owned by Babe Ruth.
Dingman also had a huge neon sign collection, including one from the Thunderbird Motel along Route 66 in Miami, Okla. Here's what it looks like:
Here's the description from the auction house:
This stunning example is a relic of the storied Route 66. For years, it welcomed people to the Thunderbird Motel in Miami, Oklahoma. When lit, the plumage of the mighty Thunderbird was visible to weary motorists for miles. This monumental work of art is an absolute showpiece and embodies all the kitschy glamour of the age of neon. Almost certainly one of a kind, it would be a fitting centerpiece to any collection that celebrates the golden age of cross country travel. A photo of the sign as it was originally mounted in Miami, Oklahoma, is available on our website. Surface is glossy and clear, white lettering shows minor weathering. Several instances of inpainting are visible upon close inspection, but it is professionally executed and unobtrusive. Sides: Single-sided Authenticity: Original Material Type: Porcelain Mounting Style: Wall Size: 192X96X6.5 # of Colors: 5
Estimated value is $15,000 to $20,000.
The real prize of the Thunderbird was the cinnomon rolls they made in the 70’s.