Each year, the International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame & Museum recognizes individuals who have made substantial contributions to the towing and recovery industry. The tradition started in 1986 when the towing and recovery industry realized it was time to display the roots of the profession. Industry professionals came together and selected individuals who made a difference. To honor those chosen few, the Friends of Towing (now ITRHFM) dedicated an entire section of the museum's walls for portraits of the inductees. Each September a new class is inducted.