He Was Unable to Cease Purchasing Cars and Ultimately Accumulated 1,300 | Carscoops

      A hidden collection of 1,300 cars in Alabama has finally come to light, featuring hundreds of rare classics set to be auctioned soon.

      The assortment features Cadillac, Trans Ams, and global classics such as a Porsche 911. All vehicles are owned by collector Greg Rusk, who seldom drove them after purchasing. Over 200 cars from the "Generous Collection" are expected to go up for auction shortly.

      Occasionally, a rare automotive find reminds us that time can serve as a more effective curator than any museum. These vehicles, hidden for decades, emerge as mechanical time capsules, each depicting a story of interrupted journeys and lost passions.

      However, few collections compare to this one recently discovered by Hagerty—a vast, privately held treasure that may be the most extraordinary barn find in the U.S.

      With an estimated 1,300 vehicles of various types and brands, this extensive collection quietly rests on a man’s property in Alabama. Soon, each vehicle will be auctioned without reserve, granting even the most forgotten cars a chance at a new owner.

      A Family Legacy

      Greg Rusk, the owner of this substantial collection, is the son of Bobby Rusk, who established the cardboard manufacturing company Rusken Packaging in 1974. After taking over the family business in 1992, Greg began what would evolve into a lifelong passion for cars.

      His strategy was simple: purchase a car, enjoy it for a weekend, and then leave it parked indefinitely. This practice over the years morphed into an extraordinary warehouse of American automotive history concealed behind closed doors.

      In conversation with Hagerty, Rusk mentions experiencing various phases in his collecting journey, from amassing dozens of Cadillacs to shifting his focus to Chevrolets and later Trans Ams.

      This month, over 200 cars from what Hagerty refers to as the 'Generous Collection' will be auctioned off, with more cars to follow in the coming months. Currently, 180 vehicles are listed online, showcasing some stunning showpieces alongside others that require significant restoration.

      Highlights Among the Dust

      Among the standout cars is a 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, which has been driven 52,000 miles (~83,600 km) and boasts a striking gold finish. The collection also includes several other American classics, such as a V8 Chevrolet C10, a 1953 Pontiac Chieftain, and a 1956 Cadillac Sedan de Ville.

      While the majority of the collection consists of American cars, there are also international classics. Notable pieces include a 1953 Jaguar XK120 that has garnered considerable interest, along with an LS1-powered 1989 Mazda RX-7 Turbo, a 1995 Toyota Celica ST Coupe, and a 1967 Porsche 911 Coupe.

      A Caution for Collectors

      Rusk and his team emphasize transparency regarding the condition of the vehicles. Many have remained untouched for years, and while they are visually appealing, each will require mechanical work before being road-ready.

      Buyers are encouraged to approach with enthusiasm balanced by mechanical caution, as these cars have been waiting decades for revitalization, and some patience will be essential.