From today through July 14, the Main Hall of Union Station — the historic front door of Washington, D.C. — becomes an interactive exhibit of American history. At the height of America 250 celebrations, Driving America Forward: A Ford Experience at Union Station is free, open daily to the public, and requires no ticket or registration. 

Visitors will witness the deeply linked histories of America and Ford Motor Company, showing how over a century of industrial innovation and mobility helped shape the country.

The exhibit features rare, iconic vehicles spanning Ford's history, including the final 1927 Model T, Jay Leno's 1934 Flathead Ford V-8 Pickup, a 1941 Ford GP, and the legendary 1965 World's Fair Mustang.

Take a look at what’s inside the station:

1927 Ford Model T — The 15 Millionth and Ceremonial Last Model T

In 1908, Ford Motor Company introduced the Model T — the first well-built, family-sized automobile priced within reach of middle-class Americans.

Mass-production methods steadily lowered the price, allowing even more families to incorporate cars into their daily lives. Production ended in 1927, and Ford officials designated this car as the 15 millionth and ceremonial “last” Model T.

Henry and Edsel Ford personally drove the car off the Highland Park, Michigan, assembly line on May 26, 1927.

Throughout its production run, the Model T had a 100-inch wheelbase and featured a 4-cylinder, 20-horsepower engine paired with a 2-speed manual transmission.

The 1927 touring car version weighed about 1,700 pounds and sold for just $380 when the average annual wage in America was $1,380.

This vehicle is on loan from the Collections of The Henry Ford, Dearborn, Michigan.

1964 World’s Fair Mustang Enters the National Historic Vehicle Register

The morning of April 17, 1964, visitors to Ford’s pavilion at the New York World’s Fair had a surprise. To announce the introduction of the Mustang, twelve ponies had been added to the cars that visitors would ride in to discover the experience created by The Walt Disney Company.

The technology that Disney created was groundbreaking.Metal plates and steering rods were attached to the bottoms of each car, and the cars were placed on a track where their tires propelled them forward, traveling along a 12-minute journey that showed the advancement of mankind over time.

In total, 24 Mustangs were used over the two years, as almost 15 million people rode on the “Magic Skyway” ride.

After the Fair closed, the cars were all sold to private individuals. This Mustang was used during 1965 and is one of only four still known to exist.

It still has its original 6-cylinder 120 HP engine, Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission, 1966 AM radio with 8-track player, and a bench seat, all of which were added before it was sold off the Ford Resale "B" lot in December of 1965.

This vehicle is on loan from Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford Dealer Group.

1928 Model A Roadster

After nearly 20 years of production, Ford discontinued the Model T, and Edsel Ford led the team designing its replacement car.

The result was so beautiful and functional that Henry Ford decided to name it Model A, signifying a new start for the Company. Anticipation for the reveal of the car almost reached mania proportions as millions of people lined up to see the new Ford revealed on December 2, 1927.

It is estimated that 10% of the population in the U.S. saw Model A within a week of the reveal.

Edsel would later design the Lincoln Zephyr and Lincoln Continental, cementing his legacy as a world class automotive designer. It was celebrated with the popular song, “Henry’s Made A Lady of Lizzy.”

This 1928 Roadster was built on December 6, 1927 and was one of the first 1,500 Model As built.

This vehicle is on loan from the Collection of Bob Martino, Paoli, Pennsylvania.

1934 Ford Pickup on Loan From Jay Leno

When Jay Leno was 14 years old, he bought a non-running 1934 Ford pickup truck from an abandoned gas station in Massachusetts for just $350.

The truck sat idle in his parent’s driveway in a middle-class suburb of Boston.

“Of course it didn’t run — why did you think my father let me buy it?” Leno joked. He worked on the car for two years to get it operational before he got his driver's license at 16.

He eventually sold the truck but later jumped on an opportunity to purchase another for his collection.

Built on a 112-inch wheelbase ladder-frame, utilizing a 3-speed manual transmission, it was marketed as "a farmer's friend" because it was designed for heavy-duty daily labor and hauling.

Those same durability features make the 1934 Fords coveted by hot rodders.The steel frame, V-8 engine and classic look offer the perfect canvass for customization.

Jay purchased this truck ten years ago in part because of the memories of his first restoration project. The 1934 Ford Pickup has a special place in his heart, and we are excited he loaned it to us to support our exhibit.

"That model has always been my favorite," Leno said. "I am thrilled to loan my 1934 Ford Pickup to Ford Motor Company to celebrate America 250 in Washington, D.C., alongside nine other incredible vehicles."

1956 Ford Thunderbird

When George Lucas was looking for a signature car to use as part of the plot in American Graffiti, he chose the Ford Thunderbird for its sleek lines and distinctive look.

The Iconic 1956 Ford Thunderbird was produced by Ford as part of the “Baby Bird” generation of America's original personal Luxury Sports car.

Finished in striking Fiesta Red with a Colonial White Porthole hardtop, first offered in 1956, this example showcases many of Ford’s first model's most recognizable features, including the Continental Kit and signature porthole hardtop windows.

It is powered by a 312 cubic-inch Thunderbird Special V-8 engine, producing 225 horsepower and paired with a Fordomatic 3-speed automatic transmission.

Ford also revolutionized the auto industry in 1956 by introducing the “Lifeguard Safety Package." Ford's Safety Package was the first in America to offer a Deep-Centered Steering wheel, Double-Grip door latches, padded dash, safety Day/Night rearview mirror, and seat belts for the protection of the passengers.

This 1956 Fiesta Red Thunderbird was restored by Minter’s Thunderbirds of Dallas, Texas, and is part of the Sam Pack 5 Star Ford Collection. The 1956 Thunderbird remains one of the most celebrated and recognizable American automobiles ever produced.

1941 Ford GP

In 1940, with the U.S. involvement in World War II imminent, the U.S. Army requested American automakers produce a general purpose, lightweight, four-wheel drive vehicle capable of cross-country travel while carrying various armament.

From 1940 until late 1941, three U.S. automakers produced their own unique variant of the “U.S. Army truck, ¼ ton, 4x4.”

The Ford Pilot Model GP-No. 1 Pygmy (aka Pygmy) is America’s oldest known “jeep,” and the body style became the standard for all future GPs. This 1941 Ford GP is one of the latest examples of the 1940-1941 early production units.

In late 1941, the U.S. War Department standardized the vehicle specifications, selecting the Ford body design with a Willys designed engine, allowing commonality and interchangeability for more efficient repairs in the field as well as lower costs. From then on, these Ford-produced vehicles were known as the GPW. Ford produced 282,352 GP/GPWs throughout WWII.

The development of the jeep and the application of the assembly line to bomber production at Willow Run were groundbreaking steps in wartime production.

Ford and its manufacturing and industrial prowess were critical to the success of the U.S. efforts during World War II. Ford Motor Company stood ready to answer the call.

1951 Ford 8N Tractor

With the introduction of the Fordson Model F tractor in 1917, Ford Motor Company pioneered the world's first mass-produced tractor, making mechanical power accessible to everyday farmers. It matched the role its cousin, the Model T, did for transportation.

The Fordson revolutionized global food production. Ford produced more than 4 million tractors between 1917 and 1990 and still ranks third in overall tractor production.

The legendary 8N tractor was produced by Ford from 1947 until 1952. The 120 cubic-inch, 4-cylinder engine produced approximately 23 horsepower and was paired with a 4-speed unsynchronized manual transmission.

8Ns were produced at Ford’s Highland Park, Michigan, assembly plant, where tractors were assembled from the late 1930s through the 1970s. The 8N was the top-selling tractor of its time, with over 500,000 units produced.

Easily recognized by their iconic grey and red color combination, 8N tractors are still well-respected work horses due to their durability, simplicity, and versatility.

1954 Ford F-100, Red Truck Bakery

Previously owned by American fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger and purchased to help deliver baked goods across rural Virginia, this Red Truck Bakery staple has since become a beloved member of the Fauquier County, Virginia, community.

Serving cakes, pies, breads, cookies, and more to their following, Red Truck Bakery is one of Condé Nast Traveler’s 13 Destination Bakeries in America.

Not a local? No worries, Red Truck ships across the United States and Canada!

The 1954 F-100 boasted triple economy in power, efficiency, and capacity and more than 117,000 were produced. With Fordomatic Drive transmission, toggle-type tailgate latches, a redesigned “Driverized” cab featuring a curved windshield, seat shock snubbers, and door openings almost 3 feet wide, this was a pickup designed to be both a work truck and a daily driver.

1966 Stroppe Bronco, Baja Winner 

The Bronco was introduced by Ford in August 1965 and quickly raised the bar for what it could do in off-road racing. Bill Stroppe, the legendary off-road racer, was the reason that the Bronco emerged so quickly to lead the field.

Stroppe had been involved with Ford Racing for years, including the grueling Panamericana Race. Ford sent four pre-production models of the Bronco to Stroppe to be outfitted for strenuous 1967 off-road racing.

Enter this truck, the 1966 Unser Bronco. It was originally prepared by Stroppe for the 1967 Mexico 1000 and led for much of the race piloted by Bill Stroppe and Ray Harvick. The Bronco had a two-hour lead but failed 10 miles from the finish line.

The next year, the same Bronco was driven by Larry Minor and Rod Hall at Baja and won the class, becoming the first Baja winning Bronco. Bobby Unser and Parnelli Jones raced it in the Mint 400 in 1969 and finished second.

This Bronco, arguably one of the most important as the first Baja winner, was loaned to us by Wayne and Robin Schmeeckle, who keep the flame alive for Stroppe Broncos.

125 Years of Ford Racing — 2026 Oracle Red Bull Racing RB22

The RB22 is Oracle Red Bull Racing’s Formula One challenger for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship. Unveiled in Detroit in January, it marks a historic milestone as the first Formula One car powered by the all-new Red Bull Ford Powertrains DM01 power unit.

Designed to meet Formula One’s revolutionary 2026 technical regulations, the RB22 features a shorter, narrower, and lighter chassis. At its heart is a 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 hybrid power unit capable of reaching 15,000 rpm, while the chassis itself weighs 185 kg (407 lbs.)

The RB22 represents the beginning of a new era. It's the first Formula One car to be developed and powered by the Red Bull Ford Powertrains and will be joined on the grid by the sister team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, which also uses the same power unit.

This landmark car also signals Ford’s long-awaited return to Formula One. As one of the most successful engine manufacturers in the sport’s history, Ford returns to the pinnacle of motorsport after more than two decades away.

Super Duty F-450 Proud to Honor

Outside the exhibit, two vehicles stand at the entrance.

Ford Custom Garage is proud to unveil the limited-edition 2027 Super Duty® Proud to Honor Package, a bold, factory-backed tribute to American grit, designed to command attention on both the jobsite and the open highway.

For those who carry the spirit of the country wherever they go, a truck is more than just a tool — it's a statement of pride.

This visual powerhouse features a striking red, white, and blue flag graphic centerpiece, turning the iconic Super Duty into a rolling tribute to our nation.

Best of all, this package is built with a purpose. A portion of the proceeds from every Super Duty Proud to Honor Package sold will be donated directly to Blue Star Families and Ford's Proud to Honor veteran services programs, continuing Ford's long-standing history of supporting our military members, veterans, and their families. Learn more at your local dealer.

This Super Duty was revealed at a recent event aboard the USS Midway aircraft carrier in San Diego, where Ford, in collaboration with NASCAR, announced a special military tribute race called the Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic.

It debuts on Veterans Day 2026 and will feature six teams of Mustang® Dark Horse™ Rs, with each team racing to honor a branch of the military. The race, taking place on Nov. 11, 2026 (Veterans Day), will be paired with a concert featuring Zac Brown Band and more.

2026 F-150 Raptor R

When Super Bowl winning quarterback Tom Brady appeared with Ford CEO Jim Farley on his podcast, The Drive, Brady revealed that while he has several exotic cars, his favorite daily driver was his Ford F-150 Raptor.

It is no wonder he would love it! The Ford F-150 Raptor R is the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup, engineered to conquer the toughest terrains with desert-racing capability that's powered by a supercharged V8 engine. The specialized suspension features state-of-the-art Fox Live Valve shocks, providing exceptional control and comfort over rugged obstacles.

With an aggressive, wide-body stance, massive all-terrain tires, and an advanced Terrain Management System, the Raptor blends extreme durability, cutting-edge technology, and everyday usability, making it a truly legendary, highly coveted icon in the global market of high-performance off-road pickup trucks.

Under Glass — Seven Themes in the Artifact Cases

Alongside the vehicles, seven curated cases tell the broader story of the company — organized not around individual cars, but around the themes that have defined Ford for more than a century.

Birth of an American Dream — The Model T and the $5-a-day wage (introduced in January 1914) that helped build the American middle class. Artifacts include Ford’s 1903 corporate seal, an early “Opening the Road to All Mankind” Ford advertising campaign, and more.

The Backbone of Work — From the first mass-produced Fordson tractor to 49 years as America's best-selling truck — and the people Ford trained to do the work, including the more than 8,000 graduates of the Henry Ford Trade School. Artifacts include the Henry Ford Trade School pin, a 1931 Groundwork advertisement, and more.

Answering the Call — Whenever the country has needed Ford, it has answered: the Arsenal of Democracy and the B-24 line at Willow Run, the Mission Control Ford helped engineer for the Apollo and Gemini missions, and our longstanding partnership with the American Red Cross. Artifacts include a Ford Model GP Manual, a Veterans of Foreign Wars Ford hat, and more.

Shaping Pop Culture — Mustangs, Thunderbirds, and Lincolns on the world's biggest screens and stages. Beyond media, Ford has partnered with fashion houses like Versace and Cartier to make clothes and cars with style. Artifacts include Jurassic Park Explorer model, a Ford baseball and glove, and more.

125 Years of Racing — A century-plus of competition, from Le Mans and NASCAR to Baja and Formula 1, marked by some of our legendary drivers and a signed 1999 Winston Cup champagne bottle. Artifacts include 1975 Baja Bronco brochure, a Stewart Ford Formula 1 publication, and more.

American Innovation — The breakthroughs behind the vehicles: the first affordable V-8, automotive safety glass, the moving assembly line, and the Philco-Ford Mail Sorter. Artifacts include a deck of Ford V8 playing cards, Ford Nitrogen Plant Food booklet, a trimotor model plane, and more.

Building a Better World — Ford's century of giving back: vocational training for veterans, the Proud to Honor program for military families, our partnership with the United Way, and today's Building Together partnership with four national nonprofits. Artifacts include a 1945 June Ford Times Gardening for Security article, the Ford Motor Company Fund Seal, and more.

Step Into the Picture

Two installations invite participation: Practice Your Presidential Wave puts visitors behind FDR's Lincoln "Sunshine Special," and a postcard station lets visitors send a Ford memory home.

Ted Ryan is heritage brand manager and archivist at Ford.