Minis!

We became acquainted with Minis via my 1967 Lynchburg College roommate David Jones, who had a '66 Cooper that was racing-prepared. On our first European trip, in 1979, we tent-camped out of a rented Mini in the UK. In 1989, we bought a '74 850, autumn gold, that became Rebecca's car, and then mine. We're fans, and likely will own another someday. [Oh, yes, right: we're in the UK now, first at Rochester, briefly, then in Comberton, outside Cambridge, for several days' rest. The touring has been non-stop for weeks, and we needed a break. Especially after Dartford Crossing. It hasn't gotten any better after 10 or even 20 years.]

2009 is the 50 year anniversary of the first production of the Austin Mini;
production ceased about 2000, the longest-running in automotive history
(the current Mini is a BMW in clever disguise, although made in Oxford

When Minis started arriving in numbers at the campground we were in near
Cambridge--Highfield Farm Touring Park--we knew there would be more;
the great Mini 50th anniversary jamboree had been held in Birmingham the
week before, with more events all over the Island

One of several Mini encampments; these folks were mostly Dutch, but there
were other nationalities as well

Mini Limo

Delivery van with matching trailer

Moke, the jeep version of the Mini

 

A typical British Mini, and attitude