A Lifelong Love Affair with Automobiles
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a deep appreciation for automobiles. It all started when I was a teenager, fascinated by the roar of a powerful engine or the curves of a well-crafted body. That love turned into a career, with Honeycutt Transmission eventually becoming one of the most recognized repair shops in the United States. But alongside my business journey, I found myself drawn to something even more personal—collecting classic cars.
What began as a hobby has grown into something much bigger: a legacy of preserving history, craftsmanship, and joy. Every car I’ve collected tells a story, and together they form a narrative of my life, my passions, and the incredible journey I’ve been blessed to travel.
Finding the First Gem
Like many collectors, my journey started with just one vehicle. It was a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air, in rough shape when I found it, but something about that car spoke to me. It reminded me of simpler times—of cruising with friends, going on Sunday drives, and a golden age of American manufacturing.
I restored that car with my own hands, dedicating evenings and weekends to bringing it back to life. The process was therapeutic. There’s something special about working with your hands to revive a piece of history, especially when you’re passionate about the craft. When I finally drove that Bel Air out of the garage, it wasn’t just a car—it was a piece of my past, polished and proud.
More Than Metal and Paint
To some people, a car is just a machine. But to me, every classic car I own is a work of art. Each one carries the DNA of its era—the style, the technology, the values of the time. Some of my favorites include a 1965 Ford Mustang, a 1941 Willys Coupe, and a 1970 Dodge Charger. These cars weren’t just fast or flashy; they were cultural icons.
Collecting these vehicles has taught me to value craftsmanship and heritage. Unlike modern cars built on assembly lines with computers and robots, classic cars required time, care, and precision. They remind us of the artistry that once defined the American automotive industry.
A Family Affair
One of the most rewarding parts of this hobby has been sharing it with my family. My wife Cindy and I have been married for 34 years, and while she may not always get as excited about exhaust notes or chrome finishes, she supports my passion fully. Our daughters and now even our grandchildren have taken an interest, especially when we attend car shows together.
Those events are more than just exhibitions—they’re opportunities for bonding, storytelling, and making memories. It warms my heart when my grandkids ask to sit in one of the classics or help polish the chrome. I see their eyes light up the same way mine did years ago.
Community Connections
Classic car collecting has also opened the door to an incredible community. Whether it’s local enthusiasts in Raleigh or fellow collectors I’ve met across the country, there’s a camaraderie that comes from a shared appreciation of these timeless machines. We swap stories, parts, and restoration tips—and sometimes even lend a helping hand when a big project rolls into the shop.
Hosting classic car days at my farm or bringing one of the showpieces out during the Christmas light display has become a tradition. People come for the lights, and they stay to admire the lineup of classics. It’s a joy to see young kids learn about automotive history and for adults to reminisce about the cars they grew up with.
Leaving a Legacy
At 67, I’ve started to think more about legacy—what I’ll leave behind not just in business, but in life. My classic car collection isn’t just a garage full of old vehicles; it’s a living museum of a passion that’s spanned decades. I hope that one day, my grandchildren or others who share this love will continue the tradition, care for these vehicles, and understand the value in preserving history.
More importantly, I want my story to inspire others. Whether you collect cars, restore furniture, grow heirloom vegetables, or paint landscapes—any hobby pursued with heart and intention can become a legacy. It’s not about having the most or the best. It’s about doing what you love and sharing that love with others.
Final Thoughts
From garage bays to open highways, classic cars have been a constant joy in my life. They’ve connected me to my past, brought me closer to my family, and introduced me to some of the most genuine folks I’ve ever met. Collecting classic cars has taught me patience, appreciation, and the value of preservation.
And so, what started as a hobby has become something far greater. It’s a journey that continues to roll forward—one gear shift, one restoration, and one Sunday drive at a time.