From the completion of the Tamiami Trail in the 1930s, to the founding of ARCA and SCCA in the 1940s, to the opening of Revs Institute in 1999, Barron G. Collier and his descendants have had a lasting impact on automotive culture and research around the world. Through their efforts in connecting Southwest Florida with the rest of the east coast, establishing bridges residents could cross between counties, opening up popular destinations for visitors, and constructing racing organizations-the Colliers’ names have become synonymous with freedom, adventure and curiosity. The impact of their achievement over the past century reverberates throughout motor enthusiasts and historians alike.
The 1930s were a pivotal moment in American history, as Barron G. Collier completed the Tamiami Trail and connected Southwest Florida to the east coast for the first time, allowing automobiles to flow freely into the region. Scott George, curator of collections at Revs Institute, founded by Barron’s grandson Miles C. Collier, remarked that “His efforts to develop an area that he fell in love with were incredible”, noting the significance of the connection from Tampa to Miami. Thomas Edison cut the ribbon for the Edison Bridge over the Caloosahatchee River, making it easier for people from Fort Myers to visit Naples, while Marco Island swapped its ferry for a bridge to welcome motorists. Fifth Avenue South was transformed into a destination for thousands of visitors each winter, and Naples opened its first 9-hole golf course near the Naples Pier.
Barron’s sons, Barron Jr., Samuel and Cowles “Miles” Collier, also recognized a national trend of the European automobile and sportscar racing craze. The Colliers were instrumental in bringing this exciting activity to the United States with the formation of the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA) in 1933 and the Sports Cars Club of America (SCCA) in 1944.
Fast-forward to the early 2000s, when Miles C. Collier opened the doors to the Revs Institute in Naples, Florida. With 115 cars in the collection spanning from 1896 to 1995, Revs celebrates a century of automotive excellence. It is an impressive three-story museum that houses and restores cars while also preserving them in running condition for all to experience. A must-see for both history and auto enthusiasts alike, Revs features an expansive library with over 1.5 million images, prints, manuals, books and periodicals, much of which is digitally archived and available online. This library has attracted researchers from around the world, showcasing the important historical connection between cars and culture.
Miles’ collection is a testament to the passion and creativity of automotive history, with 1930s cars such as the 1937 Delahaye Roadster and 1938 Alfa Romeo Tipo 8C being particular standouts. These unique vehicles represent a time when automobiles began to be seen as more than just practical tools of transport, and instead as beautiful works of art that still influence modern car design today.
His 2009 expansion into Revs Institute was a bold move that further solidified the importance of automobiles in the human experience. Through Revs, Miles has ensured that these beloved machines will live on for generations to come.
In the 1930s, art deco inspired curves became a major trend in both fashion and automobile design. Car makers sought to utilize aerodynamics in order to create sloping designs like the 1934 Chrysler Airflow Imperial CV-8 Coupe, while fashion houses used dramatic peplum silhouettes to flatter the female figure, such as this ruffled Aje dress (below) paired with Jimmy Choo heels. Similarly, a laced-up Aje dress (above) brings to mind the shoes that racers wear when they’re ready to hit the track. Dresses from Saks Fifth Avenue and jewelry from Yamron Jewelers were also included in the shoot. Photography by Omar Cruz captures these stunning looks.
This 1950 Cisitalia 202 SC Coupe is an iconic classic that has lasted for decades, demonstrating the timelessness of Piero Dusio’s automotive designs. For a modern take on vintage fashion, pair a light-reflecting stone blouse from Self-Portrait with pin-straight pants from Alice + Olivia and Christian Louboutin pumps. Complete the look with jewelry from Yamron Jewelers, and clothing from Saks Fifth Avenue – perfect for any occasion!
This combination of old and new creates a proud and positive look that is fashionable yet timeless, creating the perfect balance between business and party.
An Unforgettable Experience
Andres Beligoy: A Renowned Photo Assistant Shoots at Revs Institute
For the renowned photo assistant, Andres Beligoy, shooting on location at the Revs Institute was an unforgettable experience. Located in Naples, Florida, the Revs Institute is home to one of the world’s finest and most comprehensive collections of automotive history. From rare race cars to vintage automobiles, Beligoy had access to the institute’s impressive collection, allowing him to capture stunning images for his portfolio. He described the experience as one of the highlights of his career, noting that it was a dream come true to be able to photograph such iconic pieces of automotive history.
Andres Beligoy, a renowned photo assistant, had the honour of shooting on location at Revs Institute.
Through its impact on regional tourism and its collection of classic automobiles, the Collier family has shown how their love for cars helped shape American culture and put Southwest Florida on the automotive map. Barron G. Collier’s legacy lives on through his son’s transformations of Fifth Avenue South into a winter destination, construction of the Tamiami Trail, and preservation of antique automobile models at the Revs Institute in Naples. These actions demonstrate the transportation revolution that sparked dynamic changes in rural United States living in the early twentieth-century and heralded the emerging southwest coast as America’s premier playground.
