New Mural Celebrates UK Pioneer
A new mural celebrating Victorian car pioneer Richard Stephens was unveiled in Clevedon, UK. The public artwork was revealed alongside a commemorative blue plaque, blending local history with contemporary street art.
- Richard Stephens, a Welsh-born engineer, settled in Clevedon in 1888 and initially worked as a steamroller driver for the local council. He later opened The Clevedon Cycle Depot, which expanded into cycle manufacturing and mechanical engineering. - Stephens aimed to build one of the first entirely British-made motorcars, at a time when most vehicles relied on imported components. He produced his first working prototype around 1898. - His company, Stephens Engineering and Motor Car Works, was established in the mid-1890s with financial backing from local inventor and baronet Sir Edmund Elton. - Stephens is believed to have built no more than twelve vehicles, including two-seater "dog-cart" models, a six-seater taxi supplied to Bath, and a nine-seater omnibus used for passenger routes. - An advanced feature for its time, his first car incorporated independent front suspension and a tubular steel chassis inspired by bicycle construction. - The recent revival of interest in Stephens' work was spearheaded by American filmmaker and Clevedon resident Mark Reber, who commissioned a full-scale replica of Stephens' 1898 prototype. - Two of Stephens' original cars survive today and are preserved by the Loder family, who continue to exhibit them at events like the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. - The mural and blue plaque are part of a wider effort to create a permanent memorial to Richard Stephens and his motor works in Clevedon.
