Local History Videos

Old Images of the MG Factory at Abingdon-on-Thames

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Debbie Death
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Abingdon-on-Thames Oxfordshire UK Abingdon MG Factory

The MG factory in Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, was an important centre of local manufacturing and national pride. 

Making MG Cars At Abingdon-on-Thames (1931)

Making MG Cars At Abingdon: Silent Documentary (1931), posted to YouTube by British Pathé

This is a silent documentary made in 1931. 

A middle class couple arrive at Abingdon’s MG factory to pick up their new car. They visit the assembly lines and other factory departments.

The MG Factory in 1950

Mg Factory Abingdon (1950), posted to YouTube by British Pathé

Almost two decades later, the filmmakers returned to record the factory workers constructing new cars. The production methods are roughly the same as in 1931, but the workers now sport big quiff hairstyles!

Stirling Moss at the MG Factory (1957)

Mg Does It Again (1957) posted to YouTube by British Pathé

We’re back at the MG Factory in Abingdon-on-Thames, but now in 1957 the film is in sound and colour. There’s no sign of the assembly lines, since all focus is on the design and construction of one racing car. 

The draughtsmen are busy designing the fastest 1.5 litre car in the world! And since they are designing it to hold Sterling Moss, the famous driver is there to climb in and see how it feels.

Later scenes show the Queen Mary and the car’s speed attempt in America.

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