James Dean, a native of Grant County, Indiana, remains an enduring icon of Hollywood’s golden era. His legacy lives on through the annual Remembering James Dean Festival in Fairmount, Indiana, where visitors can explore sites like the Fairmount Historical Museum, the James Dean Gallery, and the James Dean Birth Site Memorial. Dean’s passion for classic cars and motorcycles is celebrated with exhibits featuring his own 1955 Triumph motorcycle and memorabilia at various locations throughout Fairmount, including the Rebel Rebel gift shop.

During his time in Fairmount, Indiana, James Dean cruised around town in a 1949 Ford, originally owned by his Uncle Marcus Winslow and later repainted red. This iconic car is showcased annually at the Remembering James Dean Festival. Dean’s affection for motorcycles was evident as he zipped through the streets on his Czech Motorbike, lovingly referred to as his ‘baby’. In “Rebel Without a Cause,” he famously drove a 1949 Mercury Coupe, sparking a dedicated ‘Merc Corral’ at the festival featuring numerous classic Mercuries. The very car from the movie is now a permanent fixture at the National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV.

James Dean’s love for speed was legendary, evident in his choice of vehicles. He was often seen cruising in a 1921 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, tragically passing away just a week after completing filming in September 1955. Racing was his passion, especially in his red 1953 MG, where he felt most alive. His celebrity status secured him a rare spot to acquire a Porsche Super Speedster in 1955, replacing his MG. A replica of this iconic car is showcased yearly at the Remembering James Dean Festival. His affection for motorcycles extended to his 1955 Triumph TR5, proudly displayed at the Fairmount Historical Museum, reflecting his fiery love for motor racing.