International Towing and Recovery Museum, Chattanooga

The International Towing and Recovery Museum in Chattanooga pays tribute to the history, innovation, and people behind the towing industry. It all started over 37 years ago when the Friends of Towing, a group of dedicated professionals, set out to recognize industry pioneers, collect memorabilia, and educate the public about the field’s evolution. What began as a mobile museum housed in a semi-trailer traveling to industry events eventually found a permanent home in Chattanooga in 1995-fitting, as the city is recognized as the birthplace of the tow truck.

Ernest Holmes Sr., an inventive local mechanic, designed the first tow truck in 1916, laying the foundation for what would become the Ernest Holmes Company, a major towing manufacturer. Today, the museum houses 24 antique tow trucks, two Model T automobiles, and an impressive collection of towing-related memorabilia, including collectible toy tow trucks. The exhibits span two galleries, telling the story of towing from its modest garage origins to a global industry.

Beyond the vehicles, the museum is home to the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame, established to honor over 300 distinguished towing professionals worldwide. It also includes the Wall of the Fallen, a solemn memorial dedicated in 2006 to towing operators who lost their lives in service. Each September, a special ceremony adds new names to the memorial, ensuring their contributions are remembered.

Visitors can explore a unique gift shop with exclusive towing-related items, making it a must-visit destination for industry professionals and curious guests alike. Open seven days a week (except major holidays), the International Towing and Recovery Museum offers a rare, engaging, and nostalgic look at the tow truck world-one that’s far more enjoyable than needing a tow yourself.