FOR THE LOVE OF CLASSIC CARS

AT A YOUNG AGE TROY FULGHAM BECAME OBSESSED WITH CLASSIC CARS AND HE STILL FEELS THE SAME WAY TODAY

TEXT BY ADAM MITCHELL � PHOTOS BY JOSHUA HAYNES

ABILENE, TX - In the heart of Abilene, Texas, there resides a man whose fondness for cars knows no bounds. Meet Troy Fulgham, an avid car enthusiast and proud owner of a remarkable classic car collection. His passion for automotive treasures runs deep, intertwined with his family’s shared adoration for these mechanical marvels.

With his wife, Traci Fulgham, Troy nurtures his car collection and owns and operates 5 Star Coatings, a full-service coating company. That also provides coating services to the automotive community in the Big Country. Now, let us delve into Troy Fulghum’s story, tracing his love affair with cars and the vehicles that have captured his heart.

Troy’s affinity for cars blossomed during his teenage years. Starting as a young kid, he found himself drawn to the allure of automobiles, purchasing pickups, and other vehicles. As time passed, his passion intensified, and what began as a youthful fascination grew into a lifelong pursuit. “It’s like a disease,” Troy chuckles, “there’s no cure. I don’t know what else to do. I enjoy it. It keeps the sanity in a way.”

You never forget your first car, and Troy’s was a 1980 Chevy C30 Silverado, a cherished gift from his granddad when he was just 15 years old. This vintage beauty sparked a fl ame within Troy that still burns brightly today. Even as he grew older, Troy clung to the nostalgia of his first vehicle, eventually adding a 1979 Camaro to his collection. As the years went by, the collection expanded, snowballing into an impressive array of classic vehicles.

Troy’s car passion was not an isolated affair. It runs in the family’s veins. “My whole family is a bunch of car nuts,” Troy proudly shares. From his father to his uncle and cousin, the Fulgham’s share an automotive obsession. In town, Lance Fulgham, Troy’s cousin, even runs an automotive shop called Fulgham Automotive. The love for cars binds them, creating a strong sense of kinship and shared experiences. Troy’s father, Sam Fulgham, continues to share in his son’s passion, making memories and embarking on joyrides together.

Troy’s love for cars extends beyond mere ownership and admiration. As the owner of 5 Star Coatings, he and his wife, Traci, have seamlessly merged their business and personal interests. The company provides a wide range of coating services and some of the services extend to the automotive community in the Big Country, supporting their passion while helping enthusiasts protect and enhance their vehicles. Troy acknowledges his wife’s significant role in this endeavor, stating, “Without her, I don’t know what I’d do. I’d be lost.”

Amid Troy’s automotive journey, fate played its hand by bringing him and Traci together. Recalling their first date, Troy chuckles and shares, “She thought that was the only truck I had. She thought it was too loud and didn’t like to ride in it.” He vividly remembers the initial uncertainty that crossed Traci’s mind. Thankfully, their love story didn’t hinge on the success of that deal alone. Today, they continue to cherish their relationship and now, share a passion for cars.

His car collection is a testament to his unwavering dedication and eclectic taste. Comprising over 40 classic vehicles, each one holds a special place in his heart. From the elegant lines of the 1966 Chevelle to the timeless charm of the 1957 Chevy Wagon, Troy’s collection is a treasure trove of automotive history. Among his favorites are the 1955 Pontiac Chieftain, a mid-century style and sophistication symbol, and the rugged yet iconic 1972 Chevy Pickup. However, the ‘72 Cheyenne Super truly captures his imagination with its blend of power, nostalgia, and unrivaled charm.

Amid Troy’s expansive collection, a special project is close to his heart. Resting under the caring hands of his wife, Traci, is her grandfather’s beloved 1963 Chevy C10 Truck. With its rich history as a police officer and firefighter’s vehicle, as well as a testament to her grandfather’s military service, the restoration of this truck holds profound sentimental value. Traci oversees the meticulous process of restoring the truck to its former glory, including a captivating charcoal gray paint job, a nod to its storied past.

As Troy Fulgham’s collection grows, so does his love for cars. With each new acquisition and restoration project, he continues to find solace and joy in the world of classic cars.

With his family by his side, Troy’s passion for cars has become a cherished family tradition, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Through their business, 5 Star Coatings, Troy and Traci Fulgham not only protect and enhance the vehicles of the automotive community but also cultivate a sense of camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts.

This classic car collection is not merely a display of “cool cars” but a reflection of Troy’s passion, dedication, and the love that runs through his veins. As long as there are vintage vehicles to be discovered, restored, and admired, Troy Fulgham’s journey as an avid car collector will continue, and we can not wait to see what he restores next.

Troy’s classic car collection is not merely a display of “cool cars” but a reflection of his passion, dedication, and the love that runs through his veins.”

TEXT BY JACOB SMITH • PHOTOS BY JOSHUA HAYNES