THE COLLECTION
ON PALMETTO
A New Museum in Clearwater
By Laura Giner
The Collection on Palmetto is a new museum
in Clearwater featuring fascinating Brass Era
automobiles and steam and gas engines that
were used in industry and agriculture. The
museum is situated on 5 meticulously landscaped
acres in the heart of Pinellas County, where it is
centrally located to residents of the Tampa Bay area.
Associated with The Collection on Palmetto is a
nonprofit foundation with a mission to inform adults
and children of the progression of technology through
displays of early American automobiles and engines
44 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021
of field and factory. As such, the foundation seeks
to involve field trip students through high interest
programs aligned with the curriculum that differ from
in-school experiences.
Marvin and Linda Feldman, founders of The
Collection on Palmetto, were industry leaders in
manufacturing and technology for decades, whose
internationally acclaimed products reached markets
across the globe. Their enthusiasm for innovation,
philanthropy and education inspired them to share
their personal interests with the public.
JUSTIN DEMUTIIS
The Ahrens-Fox NS-4 Piston Pumper was delivered new in 1928 to East Providence, Rhode Island,
where it remained in service for six decades.