The first driving event of 2022 got the year started in a big way. Organized by Bob Schroder with a big assist from Roger Sykes, the combination of good weather with the prospect of great food and viewing a large, private car collection proved irresistible to over 30 club members and guests.

The event kicked off with a half dozen cars meeting at Willowbrook Mall at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 22. The sun shone brightly as the caravan set off for Lake Conroe via the back roads, led by Dwight Dawson. The MGs were joined by Jon Crocker and his diminutive 1955 Morris Minor, into which he managed to squeeze two additional guests who all became intimately acquainted on the hour-long drive.

The caravan was joined by many other club members at Papa’s on the Lake, a large cabana scenically situated on the shores of Lake Conroe, where the signature muffulettas and plentiful bar food was enjoyed by all. Soaking in the views as well as their beverages, the group relaxed and chatted while getting ready for the highlight of the day.

The club then travelled en masse to view the private collections, housed in two large buildings a short drive from the restaurant. The group was greeted by the owner, Larry Pizzino, who gave a brief introduction to his collections. Larry bought the land in the 1960s and placed the two buildings on the property. He built up the collections with the help of his sons, and they perform all the restoration themselves. The vehicles are either restored or presented in good original condition. His collection features about 90 mostly American automobiles and trucks.

In addition to the vehicles, Larry has amassed a large assortment of collectibles and memorabilia, including gas pumps, toys, sports, tools, furniture, typewriters, juke boxes, lots of signs, and plenty of models and books. Most notable is the bar that came out of the famed Galvez Hotel in Galveston circa 1910-1920.

Even though we had most of the afternoon, it was impossible to see and appreciate everything that went into this private collection that we were fortunate to have the chance to view. Larry was the perfect host and note that the HMGCC was the largest group he had hosted to view his warehouses. Our thanks to Larry and to Bob Schroeder for making the arrangements for the tour.

If you would like to see a video from this event click HERE.

• -       Contributed by Bob Schroeder, photos by Dwight Dawson