Unveiling of First British-Made Stephens Car Statue in Clevedon

A statue commemorating the first entirely British-designed and built motor car has been unveiled in Clevedon, Somerset. The 1:1 scale metal replica of the 1898 Stephens car, engineered by Richard Stephens, now proudly stands at the Six Ways roundabout, a stone's throw from where the original vehicle was constructed. The unveiling took place on [insert date if known], and it has drawn significant attention from local residents and automotive enthusiasts alike.

Richard Stephens, a pioneering figure in early motor vehicle manufacturing, established his company in Clevedon in 1897, inspired by his encounters with American automotive innovators such as Henry Ford and Ransom Olds, the founder of the Oldsmobile car company. According to Mark Reber, the organizer of the Clevedon Cars and Coffee event and the individual who commissioned the statue, the community's excitement reflects the spirit of collaboration that characterized the original car's creation. "I am so happy to see the town's response; everyone is excited by this project," Reber stated during the unveiling ceremony. He emphasized that the statue symbolizes how local efforts can lead to significant achievements.

The original Stephens car was one of only 12 manufactured, and today only two remain, one of which has participated in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run for several years. Notably, one of these cars still operates on its original tires, which were fitted 127 years ago. The vehicle, capable of reaching speeds of 40 miles per hour (64 km/h), was notable for its innovative design, including custom suspension systems and early models of taxis and buses.

Georgina Westlake, the granddaughter of Richard Stephens, had the honor of unveiling the statue. She expressed her pride in her grandfather's legacy, stating, "Richard Stephens would be proud and so would my father." The statue, which was funded through private donations, is regarded as a tribute to Stephens' commitment to public transportation and the use of locally-sourced materials in his designs.

"Richard Stephens was a big believer in using cars for public transportation, creating them with local people using locally-sourced materials," Reber added. He highlighted that Stephens' final vehicle was designed to carry ten passengers, showcasing his forward-thinking approach to mass transit.

As Clevedon celebrates this important piece of automotive history, Reber plans to further commemorate Stephens by commissioning a mural for the building that once housed his workshop. This initiative not only honors the legacy of Richard Stephens but also reinforces the town's historical significance in the evolution of the British automotive industry.

The installation of the statue serves as a reminder of the rich heritage of automotive engineering in the UK and the local contributions that shaped its development. Richard Stephens' vision resonates today as the automotive industry grapples with modern challenges, including sustainability and public transport efficiency, reflecting the enduring relevance of his pioneering work.