By the time Walter P. Chrysler founded his namesake automotive company, we has already an accomplished auto executive and was among the highest paid people in America. Today, the company that bears his name is on the upswing, one of the last great American automakers and a company in the midst of an amazing overhaul despite a slow economy. 

Even though Chrysler itself is doing well, the museum dedicated to Walter Chrysler and his legacy has been struggling mightily. CarBuzz reports that Chrysler, the carmaker, will take over the Walter P. Chrysler Museum on January 1st, 2013…and will close the doors forever.

For anyone who has yet to experience the Chrysler museum, you are missing out. Arguably one of the most diverse and well-kept car collections of Mopars anywhere, the Chrysler museum houses 67 classic and historic Mopar automobiles. Everything from muscle cars to hot rods to lead sleds to legitimate dragsters are on display at the Chrysler museum.

Alas, despite bringing in over 35,000 people last year, ticket sales were not enough to maintain the money-losing facility. Thus Chrysler is taking over the collection, which will be preserved but closed to the public. While the museum will be used for special events and exhibitions, you and I are losing access to an incredible collection of amazing American cars. Such a shame.