Library Out Loud

A selection of model cars and original boxes from The Bill Toomath Model Car Design Collection are currently on on display at Massey University Archives.

This display is a sample from a collection of model cars donated by the family of the late Stanley William (Bill) Toomath, who was a Wellington architect and head of the School of Design at the Wellington Polytechnic (1979-1989).

Included in the collection are concept cars, many vintage cars, racing cars and late model European luxury cars. The earliest model is an 1893 Benz, an open touring car, which was chain driven.

The donation included books about cars and car design as well as original brochures and promotional material.

The collection was acquired, with assistance of Professor Tony Parker, because of its educational value. The aim of acquiring the collection is to display it, as needed, at Wellington campus to support design teaching and research.

The display will remain in Massey Archives until 28 February 2015. Visitors are welcome at the Archives, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 3.00 p.m., Room 1.38, Practical Teaching Complex, Albany Drive, Manawatū Campus, Palmerston North.