The Independence Day Car Show is a Georgia gear head’s best thing to do this weekend

Atlanta - James Collier has always been really good at math. And as a young man, he thought he would try his hand at teaching. “What I learned is that it wasn’t for me,” said the 82-year-old Atlantan with a wry chuckle. However, Collier, who quickly left the eight-grade classroom and went on to have a successful career at AT&T, has found another way to teach. People from all over the world seek him out for his seemingly endless knowledge of Chevrolet automobiles. - Todd Duncan Video by Tyson A. Horne ( Tyson.horne@ajc.com)

The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, located in Dawsonville, is hosting the Independence Day Car Show this weekend. On Saturday, July 1 at 415 Hwy 53 E, the event will feature countless cars competing for the hall of fame’s many awards, which include: Best In Show, Bill Elliott’s Pick, Best Engine, Best Paint, Best BPOC, Best Chevy, Best Ford, Best Exotic, Best Import, Best MOPAR, Best Muscle, Best Orphan, Best Street Rod and Best Truck.

Judged by Bill Buckley — former drag racer, one-time director of operations for the Atlanta Concours d’Elegance and former judge for the Suwanee Classic Car Show — the event will feature everything from classic cars to antique vehicles to things out of the ordinary.

The Independence Day Car Show begins at 8 a.m. Judging will commence at 9 a.m., followed by a presentation of colors at 11:30 a.m. Registration for the car show ends at noon, and awards will be presented at 3 p.m. Registration for the event is $30. Tickets to patron the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame are $15 for adults, $5 for children and $10 for both seniors and veterans.

“Established in 2002, our museum stands as a testament to the rich history and passion for racing that runs through the veins of Dawsonville, Georgia,” according to the museum’s website. “As a non-profit organization, we are dedicated to preserving and showcasing the incredible heritage of motorsports in the region.”

The museum features 100 years of car racing history, including both antique and replica vehicles. Visitors will also learn about the evolution of the race suit and catch a glimpse of legendary Georgia-native racer Gober Sosebee’s Daytona 500 winning Ford.

“Prepare to be captivated as you step into our museum, where a world of racing wonders awaits you,” according to the museum’s website. “Immerse yourself in the thrilling journey of motorsports through the ages, as we proudly display a vast array of remarkable artifacts and exhibits. Our collection boasts an impressive replica of Red Byron’s legendary 1948 car, which serves as a powerful reminder of the sport’s humble beginnings and the indomitable spirit of its pioneers.”