Classic Car Museum Tour

Visit: Classic Car Museum, Kantora iela 22a, Riga 1002 Latvia

The foundation for this museum was laid in late 1960s when Oļģerts Orleāns, then in his prime, completed the restoration of his first antique car, a 1922 Renault. It was the same one which years later “starred” in the movie, “A Slave of Love” by the famous Russian Film Director Nikita Mikhalkov in which the restorer himself had an acting role.

When the Latvian Vintage Car Club (Latv.: Antīko automobīļu klubs) AAK was established in 1972, Oļģerts Orleāns was among the original founders of this organization.

Over the years the number of cars kept growing - they were bought, swapped and sold. Oļģert’s son, Normund, is following in his father’s foot-steps gaining a restorer’s knowledge, skills, and experience. Eventually, vintage cars take center stage in the life of the entire Orleans’ family, and during the course of the past 20 years, they formed the impetus for the emergence of the current image of the “Vintage Car Museum” which was officially established in December, 2010.

The purpose of our museum is not just to keep dust off of the exhibits, but to also familiarize and expose our visitors to routine restoration activities, research and study. The importance of mentoring is emphasized to visitors as we tell of the socio-cultural heritage of engineering and its significance today. Many things and relationships which are so understood currently have evolved over time. Seeing the technical development of more than 100 years, we become aware of details which we would never think of, but now peak our interest. One such example is the history of the development of the blinking directional signal!

The materials we have gathered over the years, as well as our experience, have allowed us to grow. The discovery of new historical perspectives, facts and objects of that era have created an aura of enchantment which demands more light and space. Soon, restored bicycles of the Ulmanis’ period, unique household items like generators or water pumps, manufactured by leading car manufacturers will see the light of day. Our collection of books and rare materials also provide a great opportunity for scientific scrutiny of the past century. The museum is currently being under the reconstruction, but we are looking forward to seeing our guests again, when it is completed.