Whitewebbs Transport Museum visit of Feltham era Aston Martins and DB Lagondas
On Thursday March 2nd twenty five of us gathered at Whitewebbs Museum, arriving in 11 different cars covering the entire series of Feltham Astons: DB2, DB2/4 and 2/4 MkII, three DB MkIIIs together with two modern Astons. One intrepid owner arrived in what he described as “An old car made in Luton,” which was in fact a glorious 1923 Vauxhall 30-98. Also present were a lovely pair of Lagonda 2.6-Litre Drophead Coupés. The green one ‘SMX’, driven by well-known Lagonda enthusiast Alan Heard, was the first car built by the factory after David Brown’s acquisition of the company; chassis constructed in Staines and body made in Feltham.
After tea and biscuits we split into groups for our guided tours of the museum. Every floor had something of interest including automobilia, enamel signs, a motorcycle collection and of course the display of classic cars. The museum also has a fine set of vintage commercial vehicles, some of which have been used in period television programs such as Mr. Selfridge. All the vehicles are maintained in drivable condition and are a credit to the volunteers that look after them.
Over a buffet lunch we were able to view original 1950s Aston Martin engineering drawings, log-books and build sheets including details of DB2s raced by the works team at Le Mans. Side entries in the log books showing drivers names such as Wisdom, Salvadori and Abecassis and their finishing places were totally fascinating. These priceless items were kindly displayed by Antony Forshaw and are just a small part of the archive of drawings and books originally acquired by his grandfather Capt. Ivan Forshaw.
The talk in the car park afterwards was about how much people had enjoyed themselves and when could we do it again. Finally, before leaving I just had time to see the model railway running, not sure anyone else discovered that, maybe next time? We were well looked after by the volunteers at Whitewebbs and judging by the smiling faces enjoyed themselves, I know I did. Thanks to everyone who attended for making it such a great day.
2003 Whitewebbs Feltham Visit Photos
