Holden’s Legacy Explored in SA Exhibition
The State Library of South Australia is currently hosting a captivating exhibition titled “Rear Vision: The Holden Collection,” delving into the enduring legacy of General Motors Holden. This exhibition offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and impact of Holden, spanning from its humble beginnings as a saddlery in Adelaide in the 1850s to its evolution into a prominent automobile manufacturer under General Motors’ ownership in 1931.
‘Rear Vision: The Holden Collection’ serves as a tribute to the rich social history associated with General Motors Holden, shedding light on various facets of the company’s journey, including its workforce dynamics, technological advancements, and pivotal role in shaping Australia’s post-war identity. Notably, the exhibition chronicles Holden’s transformation from a local South Australian brand to the production of Australia’s first car in 1948, culminating in the closure of the company in 2017.
The State Library of South Australia has fostered a longstanding relationship with General Motors Holden since the 1990s, when Holden commenced donating historical materials to the library. Following the conclusion of Holden’s operations in Australia, the State Library assumed the responsibility of preserving the brand’s archive, ensuring that its significant contributions to the automotive industry are immortalized for present and future generations.
Within the Holden Collection housed at the State Library are a myriad of archival records, encompassing GM Holden Ltd and its various predecessors such as JA Holden & Co, Holden & Frost Limited, and Holden’s Motor Body Builders Limited. Over its 75-year tenure as an independent entity in South Australia before integration into General Motors, Holden has left a lasting imprint on the state’s industrial landscape.
Visitors to ‘Rear Vision: The Holden Collection’ can explore a treasure trove of original materials, rare documents, and personal accounts from former employees, providing invaluable insights into the rise and eventual decline of this beloved Australian institution. Megan Berghuis, Director of the State Library of South Australia, expressed the institution’s pride in showcasing Holden’s legacy, emphasizing the brand’s profound influence on South Australia’s manufacturing and automotive sectors.
In addition to the exhibition, the State Library will host a series of special events, including talks by industry experts, historians, and Holden enthusiasts, as well as engaging activities for children and captivating Holden car displays in the library forecourt. ‘Rear Vision: The Holden Collection’ is a poignant tribute to Holden’s enduring impact on Australian culture and industrial heritage, inviting visitors to embark on a nostalgic journey through the annals of automotive history.
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