The Schlumpf Brothers and Their Enormous CAR Collection
The history of vintage and classic cars is replete with stories of collectors who went above and beyond in their quests to amass cars worthy of admiration. The Schlumpf Brothers, Hans and Fritz Schlumpf, provide a prime example of this phenomenon. Their journey from textile mill industrialists to collectors of some of the world's most exceptional cars is a tale of passion, excess, and ultimate trade-offs.
From Textiles to Classic Cars
Based in Mulhouse, Alsace, Germany (now in France), Hans and Fritz Schlumpf inherited a thriving textile mill after World War II. Their lives were marked early by an interest in motor racing. However, the brothers' fortunes took an unusual turn after the war, turning from textile business magnates to die-hard classic car enthusiasts, particularly Bugattis.
Hans and Fritz Schlumpf were not merely fans; they were obsessed. They spent considerable time and money salvaging and restoring classic cars, including buying wrecks at incredibly low prices. Their collection was so extensive that in 1977, when their textile business collapsed due to competition from far-eastern manufacturers, they had amassed a staggering number of cars, including an entire collection of 30 Bugattis.
From Obsession to Ruin
By 1977, their textile factory had gone bankrupt. As a result, the Schlumpf factory workers, unable to tolerate the situation any longer, broke into the building and discovered a vast collection of cars that they believed were abandoned. Instead, they found a hidden treasure trove of some of the world's most exquisite cars, including three of Ettore Bugatti's famous Type 41 the "Royale," each of which was intended to be one of only 25 ever built.
The brothers, who had fled to Switzerland, faced legal repercussions for their actions. The French government decided to take over their collection and transform it into the Schlumpf Collection, part of the French National Car Museum. Despite their downfall, the Schlumpf brothers left behind a collection of unparalleled historic significance, now curated at the museum.
Today's Car Enthusiasts
The Schlumpf Collection, with 17,000 square meters of exhibition space, is a living testament to the brothers' obsession. The museum houses a vast collection of cars from many eras and marques, but the Bugattis, particularly the three Type 41 "Royale" cars, stand out. These cars are not only visually stunning but also hold immense historical value. The collection includes Bugattis such as the Chiron Sport, which, while not as ancient as the "Royale," still stands as a symbol of contemporary automotive excellence.
Visitors to the Schlumpf Collection can gain a profound appreciation for the craftsmanship and passion evident in these cars. The museum's lighting, with copies of lamp posts from a bridge in Paris, enhances the vehicles' allure, making it a truly special experience. X
The financial value of the collection today far exceeds any of the brothers' initial investments, demonstrating the enduring appeal and significance of classic cars. As a car enthusiast, it is easy to understand the brothers' fervor, but the story also serves as a reminder of the collateral damage that such obsessions can cause.
Legacy and Admiration
The obsession of the Schlumpf brothers is a microcosm of the larger world of automobile enthusiasts today. The Schlumpf Collection, managed by the French National Car Museum, stands as a symbol of dedication and passion for vintage vehicles. Although the brothers' journey ended in financial ruin, their legacy continues to inspire and delight car enthusiasts around the world.
For those who deeply love cars, the Schlumpf Collection offers a window into the golden era of motoring and a chance to marvel at engineering feats that have stood the test of time. It serves as a stark reminder of the balance between passion and practicality, and the enduring appeal that classic cars hold.
In conclusion, the Schlumpf brothers' story is a powerful reminder of the power of obsessions in the world of classic cars. Their collection, now curated into the Schlumpf Collection, remains a testament to their dedication and serves as a source of joy and inspiration for car lovers around the globe.