Holden exhibition tells the story of Australia’s iconic automaker

A new exhibition at the National Archives of Australia in Canberra is showcasing the history of Holden, one of Australia’s most iconic automakers. The free event, titled “Rear vision: the Holden collection,” explores the company’s growth from its humble beginnings as a 19th-century saddlery to its eventual rise as a leader in the automotive industry.

The exhibition, curated by the State Library of South Australia and Adelaide University, delves into key stories within Holden’s history, including its role in supporting the Allies during World War II, the fight for equal pay among workers, and the contributions of women and immigrants to the company.

On display are several notable artifacts, including an original 1948 Holden 48-215, a detailed Lego model, and the first engine manufactured by Holden – an air-cooled four-cylinder built in 1940 for aircraft. Visitors can also explore drawings, images, archival records, and rare artifacts from the company’s founding in 1856 to its eventual retirement on January 1, 2021.

The exhibition is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm until October 11, 2026. According to the National Archives of Australia, the event is free to attend and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the history of one of Australia’s most beloved car brands.

The exhibition comes after the end of local manufacturing in 2017, when the last VFII Commodore rolled off the line in Adelaide in September of that year. The Holden brand was officially retired on January 1, 2021. For more information about the exhibition, visitors can visit the National Archives of Australia website.

Article and image source: perthnow.com.au