Important Historical Artefacts Found During Relocation Of Lord Austin's Office
Published: 1st May 2003
The wainscoting wood panelled room, furniture and fittings contain much historical significance. Hidden in a cabinet for several decades were a number of items, including an unused and as-new Austin diary from 1914, complete with original protective inter-leaver paper.
Another interesting discovery was a rare Austin Golden Jubilee 1905-1955 commemorative coin, commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary, preserved beautifully in its original case. The coin’s frontage shows a figurehead of Herbert Austin and on the rear, images of the first Austin – an Endcliffe Tourer with a reflection of a 1955 Austin Cambridge.
A number of books were also found including a collection
of original Austin advertisements (Jan–Dec 1910), featuring
the strap lines ‘less risk, less cost, more satisfaction’
and ‘The car that has set the fashion to the motoring
world’, plus a salaries book of all employees between
Nov 1912 and Nov 1915. More artefacts include van, tractor
and car ads, brochures and purchase contracts.
