Today we’d like to introduce you to Russell Baker.
Hi Russell, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – To start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I started buying, restoring, and selling classic motorcycles and cars in the early 70s. I am passionate about both the history of transportation and America. This led me to get involved with some classic car and motorcycle clubs, events, and auctions, which is where I met Richard Erickson, who became a lifelong friend.
Richard had an extensive collection of motorcycles and automobiles, and in 2002, he invited me to get involved with The Richard W. Erickson Antique and Classic Power Museum in Wallsburg, Utah. Eventually, I became the museum’s curator, and then Chairman of the Board. Richard and I used to travel the states following leads and attending auctions acquiring key items for the Museum. When researching and chasing down an automobile, motorcycle, tractor, etc., the story matters. The history behind the car or motorcycle is important to us. The story/history brings the item to life.
We lost Richard in 2018, and since then, I have been focused on protecting his collection and building the future of the foundation to create a lasting legacy that the public can enjoy.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Taking the reins of the Foundation when Richard passed away was a huge commitment.
I am fortunate to have found a collection of people to staff our board with unique and specific talents, skills, and experience that help propel the Foundation forward. I am often asked, “How do you manage The Foundation, The Museum, the Music Festivals, and the ranch facilities?”
My response is always the same–I am the coach and we have a good team. Our Trustees are committed, they care and we all generously give of ourselves. It is our privilege to be caretakers of history and to serve the public.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The Foundation serves several purposes. First, to house the extensive Erickson collection of vintage vehicles & engines in The Antique and Classic Power Museum. The display spans 24 buildings and includes over 150 motorcycles dating back to the 1900s produced by Harley-Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Henderson, Pope, The Flying Merkel, Triumph, BSA, Vincent, and many others.
Additionally, the classic cars include Model T and Model A Fords, early flat-head V8s, roadsters, muscle cars, vintage trucks, and much more. The museum also has a pioneer village with a blacksmith, train rides, a belt-driven sawmill, a church with a functioning pump organ, and many others.
The museum is best enjoyed at one of three live music festivals we put on throughout the summer: The Antique Power Show, TedFest, and BoomerFest. We also welcome school groups and private tours.
Additionally, we host specialty events like cart races and tractor pulls. The Foundation provides experiences you can’t get anywhere else!
I am so proud of the family-friendly entertainment and education that we provide to the community. Guests of all ages can appreciate the music, camping, and live demonstrations we put on. The Ericksons would be proud of the Foundation that bears their name, particularly with the ways we share their collection and keep history alive for a new generation.
What’s next?
We are currently focused on reaching more of the community. The collection is in a remote area (Wallsburg), and too many people along the Wasatch Front have no idea about the hidden gem in their backyards.
This year, we were able to more than double attendance at the Antique Power Show, and we hope to build on that growth and share the beautiful history here with more people.
Pricing:
- Private tours require a group of 10+. Adult admission is $15, children 12 and under are free.
- Antique Power Show admission is $10 (children 12 and under are free)
- Camping prices vary, contact us for more detail
- BoomerFest $45-$250
Contact Info:
- Website: https://richardericksonfoundation.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_erickson_ranch/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/antiqueandclassicpowermuseum
Image Credits
Howard Johansen and Craig McKee
