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1949 Model 48/215 Holden sedan

Object type
Motor cars

Object number
2004.0053.0001

Description
1949 Model 48/215 Holden sedan. A 2.15 litre six cylinder, four door, medium grey sedan with chrome-plated radiator grille. Holden's red lion logo is impressed in the chrome-plated hub caps, which are fitted to white wheels. A small circular red reflector is fitted to both of the fenders at the back of the car and it has a lockable petrol cap. The pair of over-riders on the rear bumper bar are more rounded than those that are fitted to the front. The interior is trimmed in red vinyl.

Collection name
Mary Munckton and Ian Metherall collection

Collection statement of significance
The Mary Monckton Collection comprises the 48-215 Holden sedan delivered to the home of Essignton Lewis (1881-1961) on the eve of 24 February 1949, the day before Holdens were released for sale to the general public. It was used by the Lewis family for a number of years before being sold. Having fallen into disuse it was salvaged by Mary Monckton and restored by students at the Wangaratta College of TAFE in 1987.

This vehicle is a representation of the key role played by Essington Lewis in the development of 'Australia's Own Car', a reflection of post WWII national aspirations and an icon of 1950s Australian society. It markes the emergence of an Australian automobile industry, contributing significantly to the increasing prosperity of Australians in the post-way years. A Holden was the first car owned by many Australians. They have been celebrated in popular culture, including music film and even pin-ball machines.

Manufacturer
GM Holden Ltd

Date made
1949

Original owner
Mr Essington Lewis

Associated place
Victoria, Australia

Materials
Metal - non specific, Glass, Rubber, Plastic - non specific, Textile - non specific, Petrol, Mineral oil

Dimensions
Length: 4300mm
Width: 1700mm
Height: 1600mm

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