Discovering Lost Automobiles and their Stories

This book is about discovering abandoned and forgotten classic cars, including stories and illustrations from various locations around the world. The cars date from 1900 to the 1980s, and many have been saved from destruction by eccentric owners.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Many car enthusiasts dream of stumbling upon a rare Bugatti or Bentley hidden away in a dusty barn or an abandoned building. However, the reality is often quite different. More commonly, one might find an Austin 7, Ford Popular, or Mini in such locations. This book is filled with stories of these so-called "barn finds," exploring the backgrounds and histories of these forgotten cars when they were in regular use.

The author has delved into the reasons behind these cars' abandonment and their previous lives when they were cherished possessions. Why were they put away and seemingly forgotten? Many of these captivating stories have previously been featured in the author's "Lost and Found" column in Classic and Sports Car magazine, but this book offers a chance to delve deeper into the narratives.

The cars showcased in this book span from the early 1900s to the 1980s, with a majority originating from Great Britain and Europe. However, there are also notable examples from Australasia and the United States. With over 200 different cars and collections featured, this book offers a diverse range of automotive treasures. Each story is accompanied by at least one illustration, adding to the visual appeal.

The locations where these cars have been found are quite peculiar, ranging from a Daimler buried beneath a rockery to a Porsche submerged in Lake Lucerne. There are even instances of Rolls-Royces perched on the roofs of high-rise buildings in Karachi and Morris 8 specials found in a Gloucestershire pond. The author acknowledges the eccentricity of some of the owners who assembled these collections but expresses gratitude for their efforts in preserving these cars from almost certain destruction.

In addition to the individual car stories, there is a chapter dedicated to collections of cars assembled by seemingly eccentric owners who passed away before they could complete their restoration projects. The author does not criticize these owners but rather acknowledges their contributions to the preservation of these rare and valuable automobiles.

Overall, this book provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of barn finds and the stories behind the forgotten cars that have been rescued from obscurity. Whether you are a car enthusiast or simply someone interested in the history and preservation of automobiles, this book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the beauty and mystique of classic and vintage cars.

Dimension: 246 x 172 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399019002