Bob McKee

In 1992, The Museum of American Speed began was founded by Bill and Joyce Smith out of their involvement in racing and hot rodding, and their lifelong passion for collecting and preserving racing and automotive history.

​Over the past 32 years, the Museum has become a premier destination for car enthusiasts because of the countless friendships the Smiths and Museum staff built with those who share the same passion for celebrating and preserving America’s love for speed.

1955, Bill Smith and employee Bob McKee built one fo the first Pontiacs in NASCAR, which was driven by future Hall of Famer DeWayne "Tiny" Lund.

Bob McKee is one of those friends who has contributed so much, in so many ways, to ensure Bill and Joyce’s legacy continues through the Museum’s expansive collection. Bob is a legendary race car builder whose successful career began at Speedway Motors, Bill and Joyce’s racing parts business.

Born in the early 1940s, McKee’s passion for mechanics naturally formed from his father, who was an engineer, and his mother who encouraged creativity. After earning a degree in mechanical engineering, McKee plunged into the world of custom car building in the 1960s, at the time, McKee was one of America’s only road-race designers and builders. McKee often credits his success to the collaborative spirit of the industry.

​Bob recently made a generous gift to the Museum that will help us continue to offer engaging exhibits, educational programs, and events that inspire and educate visitors of all ages. As we do with all contributors, we promised him we would be good stewards of his donation.

​Bob’s gift was made through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), an investment account set up to make donations to charity. DAFs are the fastest-growing charitable giving vehicle because they are the easiest, and most tax-savvy way to give to nonprofits like the Museum of American Speed.

​If you would like to support the Museum using your DAF, or if you are interested in learning how to set up DAF, please contact us at [email protected]. It’s easy, and you will make a big difference in preserving American car culture for future generations.

And, of course, you can also make a donation through standard payment methods (check, credit card, etc.) by clicking below.

​We are so thankful for Bob’s friendship, all the other wonderful friendships “Speedy” Bill and Joyce formed over the years, and the many new friendships the Museum creates each day. They are what fuels our mission.

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