The Rolls-Royce Foundation: Interesting Facts

Have you heard of the Rolls-Royce? Most likely, you have. After all, they've been a well-known automotive brand for quite some time. No matter the model, the Rolls-Royce is known for its unique exterior that dons handsome lines and curves, along with an upscale ride quality, features, and more. And because it has so many fans, there is even a Rolls-Royce Foundation that runs in its honor. Here are some interesting facts about this Foundation and how the Rolls-Royce was born.

How Did the Rolls-Royce Come About?

The history of the Rolls-Royce began with a man named Henry Royce. In 1903, at the age of 40, Royce purchased his first ever automobile – a second-hand French Decauville. Noisy and unreliable, Royce became interested in building a car himself. He set about constructing a two-cylinder engine, and gradually, with every detail designed and tested with meticulous care, in 1904, he astonished the world with his creation. Not only did he build a two-cylinder engine that worked, but the vehicle was also quiet as well as efficient.

What Is the Rolls-Royce Foundation?

The Rolls-Royce Foundation is an independent, non-profit, charitable organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the heritage of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motorcars.

In 1978, the Foundation was sanctioned by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This began the construction of the historic library and museum. Inside the extensive library, you will find everything from books and technical manuals to sales literature, periodicals and historic documents. Offering a 5,000-square-foot display, along with a large storage area for extra automobiles, the museum features a time display of Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars, featuring models from the American-built 1929 Springfield Phantom 1 to the 1989 Silver Spirit.

Who Runs the Foundation?

Are you a car enthusiast? Do you like to work with your hands or tinker with machinery? Would you like to learn more about how cars work? If so, you can become a Friend of the Foundation. Every month, Friends of the Foundation meet at the headquarters of the Rolls-Royce Foundation. This dedicated group, consisting of all ages and skill levels, take time to care for the RRF's car collection. Tasks range from:

• Washing and polishing
• Routine maintenance (changing fluids, tune-ups)
• Complicated repairs (repair or replacement of major components)

For more information on the Rolls-Royce Foundation:

6726 Carlisle Pike, mechanicsburg, PA 17050

rollsroycefoundation.org