THIS WAS ONCE A MOTOR SHOWROOM
The building on Green Street in Kilkenny with the inscription "MAIN DEALER HILLMAN HUMBER & COMMER" once served as a motor dealership. It represents a significant part of Kilkenny's automotive history and reflects the popularity of these British car brands in Ireland during the mid-20th century.
Building History
While specific records for this particular building may be limited, we can infer its history based on the brands it represented and the general timeline of these companies' activities. The dealership likely operated from the mid-1930s to the 1970s, coinciding with the peak production years of Hillman, Humber, and Commer.
The building itself likely underwent renovations and adaptations over time to accommodate changing showroom layouts and workshop facilities. It may have served as a hub for car sales, repairs, and parts in the Kilkenny area, catering to a clientele interested in these renowned British marques.
Hillman Motor Car Company
Founded in 1907, Hillman quickly became a prominent British car manufacturer known for its affordable and reliable vehicles. The Hillman Minx, launched in 1932, was one of their most successful models, gaining popularity for its practicality and fuel efficiency. Hillman cars were widely exported and enjoyed a loyal following in Ireland.
Humber Limited
Established in 1868 as a bicycle manufacturer, Humber expanded into car production in 1898. Humber cars were known for their luxury and elegance, often catering to a more affluent clientele. The Humber Snipe and Super Snipe were particularly popular models, revered for their comfort and refined design.
Commer Cars Limited
Founded in 1905, Commer specialised in commercial vehicles, producing a wide range of vans, trucks, and buses. Commer vehicles were known for their durability and practicality, playing a crucial role in transporting goods and people across the UK and Ireland.
The Rootes Group
In the 1930s, Hillman and Humber came under the ownership of the Rootes Group, along with Commer in 1926. The Rootes brothers consolidated these brands, streamlining production and expanding their market reach. The building on Green Street likely operated as a Rootes Group dealership, offering a diverse range of vehicles to suit different needs and preferences.
Decline and Legacy
The Rootes Group faced challenges in the 1960s due to increased competition and changing market demands. The company was eventually acquired by Chrysler in 1967, leading to the gradual phasing out of the Hillman, Humber, and Commer brands. However, the legacy of these marques lives on in the vintage car community and in buildings like the former dealership on Green Street, which serves as a reminder of their significant contribution to automotive history.
Building History
While specific records for this particular building may be limited, we can infer its history based on the brands it represented and the general timeline of these companies' activities. The dealership likely operated from the mid-1930s to the 1970s, coinciding with the peak production years of Hillman, Humber, and Commer.
The building itself likely underwent renovations and adaptations over time to accommodate changing showroom layouts and workshop facilities. It may have served as a hub for car sales, repairs, and parts in the Kilkenny area, catering to a clientele interested in these renowned British marques.
Hillman Motor Car Company
Founded in 1907, Hillman quickly became a prominent British car manufacturer known for its affordable and reliable vehicles. The Hillman Minx, launched in 1932, was one of their most successful models, gaining popularity for its practicality and fuel efficiency. Hillman cars were widely exported and enjoyed a loyal following in Ireland.
Humber Limited
Established in 1868 as a bicycle manufacturer, Humber expanded into car production in 1898. Humber cars were known for their luxury and elegance, often catering to a more affluent clientele. The Humber Snipe and Super Snipe were particularly popular models, revered for their comfort and refined design.
Commer Cars Limited
Founded in 1905, Commer specialised in commercial vehicles, producing a wide range of vans, trucks, and buses. Commer vehicles were known for their durability and practicality, playing a crucial role in transporting goods and people across the UK and Ireland.
The Rootes Group
In the 1930s, Hillman and Humber came under the ownership of the Rootes Group, along with Commer in 1926. The Rootes brothers consolidated these brands, streamlining production and expanding their market reach. The building on Green Street likely operated as a Rootes Group dealership, offering a diverse range of vehicles to suit different needs and preferences.
Decline and Legacy
The Rootes Group faced challenges in the 1960s due to increased competition and changing market demands. The company was eventually acquired by Chrysler in 1967, leading to the gradual phasing out of the Hillman, Humber, and Commer brands. However, the legacy of these marques lives on in the vintage car community and in buildings like the former dealership on Green Street, which serves as a reminder of their significant contribution to automotive history.
THIS WAS ONCE A MOTOR SHOWROOM