Lot Ended
Description
From long term ownership since the 1980s; consigned from a deceased
estate; featured by the BBC in 'The House of Elliott'; rare early Humber tourer;
in need of recommissioning; engine does turn
A
remarkably original Edwardian Humber with long-term ownership, fascinating Irish
provenance and BBC television history
This rare
early Humber four-seat Tourer has been in the same ownership since 1989 and is
now offered from a deceased estate. Dating from 1914, it is powered by Humber's
four-cylinder petrol engine and retains its characterful Edwardian open touring
coachwork, complete with leather button-upholstered seats and period
dashboard.
Particularly interesting is the car's
history. The supplier's plaque identifies George Cooney Ltd of Kells, County
Meath, as the supplying agent. George Cooney was an established motor business
in Kells in eastern Ireland. The car's registration AI 1044 is also significant,
as the AI series was allocated to County Meath, and the accompanying old
registration documentation records the Humber on this number from 1923. This
provides strong evidence that the car spent at least part of its early life in
Ireland, although the precise circumstances and date of its arrival there remain
unknown.
Its later history is equally
interesting. The Humber took part in the Tail O'The Bank Rally in Scotland in
1993, and documentation on file records its use by the BBC during filming of the
period drama ‘The House of Eliott’ in 1991. Photographs and paperwork relating
to its involvement are included with the car.
A
dating certificate from 1962 records modifications including the replica
radiator and Fellows magneto, while the car has clearly remained remarkably
original in many other respects. The veteran-style interior, instruments, body
and fittings give it considerable period character.
The Humber has not been running for some time and is now offered as a
recommissioning/restoration project, although the engine does turn. The tyres
have perished and bidders should satisfy themselves as to the condition of the
mechanical components before bidding. It is, however, an unusually complete and
honest Edwardian motor car with a particularly intriguing
history.
AI 1044 is accompanied by a V5C,
old-style registration document, dating certificate, seven old MOT certificates,
photographs, invoices and other paperwork.
A very
appealing opportunity for the veteran enthusiast, this is a genuine 1914 Humber
with almost 40 years of single ownership, Irish provenance, period
competition/rally history and an appearance on British
television.
Contact - toby.service@brigthwells.com