What really happened to the Imperial Palace auto collection, seriously?
How did one of the most popular free attractions in Las Vegas turn into a high-end used car lot?
Like many Vegas tourists, the auto collection was always a “must-see” attraction when visiting Las Vegas. It was free, the cars were cool, and to think one man owned them all and had more hiding in garages around town.
Then it changed. and not for the better.
Then in 2018, long after I moved here, I went to visit the place, and it wasn’t the same. Walking in, I noticed a lot of empty spaces and fewer cars than before.
Then I was approached by a used car salesman who let me know “the cars are for sale, and if interested, just let me know.” Yeah, I’ll do that (not)
In my last podcast, I spoke with John Workman, the assistant curator at the Imperial Palace car collection, who was involved with it from its inception to its conclusion.
And I brought this up. What happened?
John makes an interesting note. Nobody noticed the name change, but they did notice the dramatic change in the collection. It was no longer the Imperial Palace Auto Collection; it became the auto collection at the Imperial Palace.
John gets into the scam these new guys were pulling on Ralph Englestad, as well as the people from whom they were collecting cars and selling to. Including Carol Shelby.
The Cat is dying and doesn't care, so the mice are out playing with HIS pocketbook and reputation.
Here is the bonus video I promised in the podcast. Talking with John Workman about what really happened to the Imperial Palace auto collection
Again, I want to thank John for all his time, his information, and for letting me in on all the dirty little secrets about the attraction. I'm pretty sure we will be talking with John again!
Click the link to see the video: