Introduction

The interwar period witnessed an intense competition over speed on land, on water, and in the air. Despite the increasingly international nature of challengers, especially from the United States, Britain remained competitive, with Major Henry Segrave spectacularly reclaiming the land speed record in 1929 with Golden Arrow, a distinctive aeroengine powered vehicle which reached 231 miles per hour.

This exhibition explores Golden Arrow through the people who helped make the car’s success a reality. From the mechanics to sponsors such as Castrol Oil magnate Charles Cheers Wakefield, many people played a substantial role in supporting Segrave’s ambitions.

The exhibition also aims to understand how both Wakefield and Segrave crafted their personalities within the media. Golden Arrow also has a personality of its own, and its distinctive technological heritage and stylistic design will be explored.

The exhibition was produced by History undergraduates from Bournemouth University, in partnership with the National Motor Museum Trust.

Back to menu