#106: The Nethercutt Museum and Collection

Who would have thought that cosmetics and cars would have something in common? The Nethercutts are owners of Merle Norman Cosmetics and thanks to that company's success, they were able to build the Nethercutt collection and museum in Sylmar. This museum/collection is free and features hundreds of classic vintage cars, antique furniture and mechanical musical instruments.

I came here this past weekend with some friends and we started off at the museum which is across the street from the collection. The museum is one big show room filled with vintage cars from the early to mid 1900's. All the cars have been beautifully restored and are in working condition--the keys are even in the ignitions!

We then went across the street for the tour of the collection. There are two tours during the day and they are free but you must reserve a spot. It took us a month to get our reservations, so be sure to book early. The tour group consisted of about 50 people, mostly an older crowd. The tour lasted for about 90 minutes and the guide gave us plenty of time to wander about on our own. There are four levels to the collection, and it's filled with everything from dolls to more classic cars to nickelodeons and music boxes.

The music room

I felt magically transported back in time in the Nethercutt. I am looking forward to returning for their silent movie screenings in the music room. A big thank you to Renee for telling me about this museum! :)

Nethercutt Collection

The piano playing on its own

The piano on top played Rhapsody in Blue---Gershwin himself played the piece on it, and it is forever recorded in the piano!

wood paneling

1946 Volkswagon

You can't really tell from the pic but it's leather!

An old fire truck.. Wow.

Brad and the RCA dog