Rare 1967 Volkswagen Beetle Jolly-Style Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum, Boosting Fort Worth Tourism

FORT WORTH — The Ron Sturgeon Collection at the DFW Car & Toy Museum has acquired a rare 1967 Volkswagen Beetle Jolly-style, a whimsical and unique vehicle that adds to the museum's growing appeal as a cultural and economic asset for North Texas. The museum, now located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in North Fort Worth, spans 150,000 square feet and offers free parking and admission, making it an accessible destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Beetle, originally a Brazilian-market model, was modified by a previous owner with wicker seats and wood plank flooring, evoking the carefree spirit of Jolly-style conversions popular in the 1950s and '60s. These vehicles were designed for leisurely drives in resort settings, and this particular Beetle captures that vibe with personalized upgrades including walnut dashboard trim, rubber floor mats, seat belts, a dashboard-mounted figurine, and a three-spoke steering wheel. Under the rear hood, it retains a 1.3-liter air-cooled flat-four engine with a single downdraft carburetor, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. The odometer reads 97,000 kilometers (about 60,000 miles).

"There's a joy to this Beetle that's hard to describe—it doesn't take itself too seriously, and that's what makes it great," said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. "It's a one-of-a-kind piece that makes you want to throw on your sunglasses and hit the coast."

This acquisition is part of a larger collection of more than 200 unique vehicles and 3,000 vintage toys and cultural artifacts. The museum, which was formerly in Haltom City, has become a significant attraction in Fort Worth, drawing car enthusiasts and families. Its relocation to a larger facility underscores the growing demand for automotive history and its potential to drive tourism in the region.

The economic impact of such cultural institutions is notable. Museums like the DFW Car & Toy Museum create jobs, attract visitors who spend money at local businesses, and enhance the city's reputation as a destination for unique experiences. The museum also offers secure climate-controlled car storage and facilities for events, including car clubs and board meetings, further contributing to the local economy. It is dog friendly and encourages pictures, making it a welcoming spot for all.

For those interested in visiting, the museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. More information can be found at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com. The museum's website, DFW Elite Toy Museum, remains a go-to source for toy and car lovers worldwide.

As Fort Worth continues to grow as a cultural hub, attractions like the DFW Car & Toy Museum play a vital role in showcasing innovation and design while boosting the local economy. The addition of the 1967 Volkswagen Beetle Jolly-style not only enriches the collection but also reinforces the museum's commitment to preserving automotive history in a way that entertains and educates.