A remarkable piece of motoring history has returned to its roots after a 76-year journey, thanks to a local media article and a family’s deep connection to their dealership’s heritage.
The 1949 Ford Anglia E494A, originally sold by Percy Hendy Ltd in Southampton, found its way back to the family-run Hendy Group after being consigned to South Western Vehicle Auctions’ (SWVA) autumn classics auction in October.
This classic vehicle, purchased for £319, 16 shillings, and 8d by its original owner, Mrs. L. Cull, came with an extraordinary collection of original documentation. The lot included the car's registration papers, purchase invoice, warranty, official handbook, logbook, and even correspondence with the dealership’s salesman. The provenance caught the attention of the media, sparking interest from the Hendy family, who continue to operate over sixty dealerships across southern England.
Jo Legg, SWVA’s Sales Director, described the unexpected chain of events:
“I received a call from Rebecca Hendy, who had seen the article online and wanted to register interest in the auction. During our conversation, she shared fascinating stories about the Hendy family’s history, including how Percy Hendy established the UK’s first British Ford dealership in 1910 after being sent by his father to greet American business magnate Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company at Southampton docks.”
Moved by the car’s connection to their family legacy, Paul Hendy, Chief Executive of Hendy Group, along with his family, decided to participate in the auction. Their successful bid brought the historic vehicle back into the Hendy fold.
Rebecca Hendy, Chair of Hendy Foundation and Paul’s wife, shared her excitement:
“My husband represents the fifth generation of the Hendy family in the business, and our three children, the sixth generation, are all involved too. When we learned about the car’s history through SWVA’s press release, we knew it was something we had to pursue. The outpouring of support from friends and customers was heartwarming, and we’re thrilled to have secured this remarkable vehicle. After a service and valet, it looks spectacular once again.”
The Ford Anglia now serves as a tangible reminder of the Hendy family’s enduring legacy and their pivotal role in British motoring history. The family has yet to decide on where the car will be showcased, but hope it may be within one of their Southampton or Portsmouth showrooms.
SWVA’s winter classics auction takes place later this month, with fifty classic vehicles in the sale. The sale will be held at their auction house in Holton Heath, Poole on Thursday 30th January 2025 at 10.00. For further information visit swva.co.uk
PICTURE CAPTION: Members of the Hendy family celebrate family heritage with the purchase of a classic Ford Anglia. L to R: Rebecca Hendy – Chair of Hendy Foundation, Will Hendy – Regional General Manager Tunbridge Wells, , Ben Hendy – Marketing Analyst, Paul Hendy – Chief Executive, and Ellie Hendy – Handover Specialist JLR.