Yesterdays Memories

Yesterday’s Memories Museum showcases thousands of vehicles and artifacts assembled by the Vander Haag family, including classic cars, historic trucks, petroleum items and farm machinery. The collection grew from John Vander Haag Sr.’s Southside Junkyard and now occupies extensive indoor exhibit space on Eastern Street in Sanborn.

The museum operates as a private foundation and hosts special events; public access appears limited and the site recommends contacting the museum before visiting to confirm hours or appointments.

A large, largely indoor collection spanning multiple buildings and vehicle types, with displays grouped by theme (cars, trucks, petroleum, farm equipment).

Look out for:

• Dozens of marque examples: Ford, Chevrolet, REO, Jeffery, GMC and others.

• Extensive truck collection, including a notable number of vintage fire trucks.

• Petroliana: vintage pumps, signage and filling-station artifacts.

• Large-scale exhibits and tightly packed displays that reward slow exploration.

Best way to experience it:

Call or email ahead to confirm availability, allow extra time to walk through multiple buildings, and plan for limited onsite amenities; bring comfortable shoes and a camera for detailed exhibits.

• Openings and visiting hours are limited; contact the museum before you go.

• Large indoor footprint with many items close together—watch your step.

• The site is privately operated as a foundation; expect volunteer-run services.

• Limited visitor facilities and signage; guided help may be by appointment.