Richard “The King” Petty’s name echoes through NASCAR like thunder rolling over the plains. Over 35 seasons, he entered 1,184 races, conquered 200 of them, and claimed seven Cup Series championships.

In a Tennessee backyard, the rain doesn’t fall on grass — it falls on history. Rows of Pontiacs sit tucked into the landscape, some whole, some gutted, some only whispers of what they once were. This ...