Clevedon Cars & Coffee: A Thriving Hub of Automotive Passion and Community
On May 14th, 2022 , American-born Mark Reber, a passionate car enthusiast, launched the first informal static meet of Clevedon Cars & Coffee. The inaugural event was an overwhelming success, attracting a diverse crowd of car aficionados of all ages and from all walks of life. This diverse mix of people, united by their love for cars, underscored the town’s inclusive spirit and welcoming community, fostering a shared passion for automotive history and culture. No matter who you are or where you come from, you are welcome in our community.
Recognising the unique charm of Clevedon as a backdrop for classic and vintage vehicles, Mark strategically situated the event in the heart of Six Ways and Hill Road. This vibrant area, home to an eclectic array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, offers a welcoming atmosphere not only for car enthusiasts but also for their families and friends who may not share their passion.
The event also pays homage to Clevedon’s rich automotive history. In 1897, Richard Stephens and Clevedon Motor Cars produced one of the first all-British-designed and built cars here. This historical connection adds another layer of significance to the Clevedon Cars & Coffee meet, bridging the past with the present.
Two years later, Mark’s initiative flourished, establishing a thriving community of classic and vintage car enthusiasts. With a strong social media presence boasting over 3,000 members, the event now features seven parking lots accommodating over a hundred cars and motorbikes. The attendance has swelled to five hundred-plus visitors, necessitating a team of twelve dedicated marshals to ensure the safety and security of all participants. Adding live music has further amplified the event’s appeal, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with attendees.
Beyond the shared love of automobiles, Clevedon Cars and Coffee , a strictly non-profit independent group, has also embraced a philanthropic spirit. Monies collected at the event have been generously donated to local charities such as Charlton Farms, Children’s Southwest Hospice, Springboard Schools, and Veterans on Remembrance Day, highlighting its commitment to giving back to the community.
The Rebers: An American Family’s British Adventure
The past thirteen months have been a whirlwind of change and growth for Mark and his family. Since my April 2023 interview with him for Humans of Clevedon, his daughter, Deveney, aged twenty-six, has embarked on an impressive career as the international project manager for the Governor of Utah. Additionally, she has starred in the historical drama Escape from Germany , a gripping tale of American missionaries racing against time to flee the country in 1939 as World War II erupts.
Twenty-three-year-old Audrey, who works at Clevedon Hall, has been accepted to Ulaw and hopes to do a year of her course in Berlin.
Meanwhile, Mark’s nineteen-year-old son, Conan, returns to England to finish his education, drawn back by the close bonds he has forged with his English friends. His youngest daughter, Roxy, aged thirteen, loves cars and drumming and is often seen collecting donations at the Clevedon Cars and Coffee event to cover the band’s cost.
Sadly, the family has also faced the loss of Mark’s mother.
The most exciting development during this time was that Mark, a devoted anglophile, and his entire family were granted British citizenship. This personal milestone further cements their connection to Clevedon and the thriving car community he has played a pivotal role in fostering.
The last in his line to live in the UK was his great grandfather, who left the UK after fighting with the Royal Scots in the Boer Wars to become a newspaper publisher in Southern Utah.
Mark’s Discovery: Unveiling Clevedon’s Forgotten Automotive Legacy
Given Mark’s deep passion for Clevedon, its rich history, and his lifelong love of cars, imagine his elation upon discovering William Fairney’s book, Richard Stephens and the Clevedon Motor Cars . This hidden gem revealed a fascinating local legacy that had been largely overlooked: the groundbreaking work of Richard Stephens, a visionary engineer whose late 19th-century innovations laid the foundation for what could be considered the first all-British motor car.
This discovery ignited Mark’s determination to rectify a historical oversight. He recognised the importance of celebrating Stephens’ ingenuity and Clevedon’s significant role in early automotive development. This revelation deepened Mark’s connection to his adopted hometown. It fuelled his desire to share this captivating piece of history with the wider community and ensure that Stephens’ contributions received their deserved recognition. Just because this Californian thinks of Clevedon as the new Pebble Beach of the UK doesn’t mean he had no misgivings about adding cars to its reputation. “When I found Bill’s book, I discovered CCC wasn’t imposing something new, but reviving something very old about my new home!”
A Visionary Engineer in a Time of Change
Richard Stephens, born in Cwmbran near Pontypool in South Wales in 1856, was a man ahead of his time. His early career was far removed from the world of automobiles; he began working in mines, where his mechanical aptitude quickly became apparent. This skill set led him to engineering roles, and eventually, he found himself in the United States working for the Cleveland Iron Cliffs Company. During this period, Stephens had the opportunity to collaborate with none other than Thomas Edison, further honing his engineering prowess.
Stephens’ journey to Clevedon began in 1888 when friends recommended him for a steam roller driver and engineer position. The local council had acquired a steam roller in 1882, and Stephens’ expertise was sought to operate and maintain it. His fascination with bicycles and early motor car designs led him to establish The Clevedon Cycle Depot and Refreshment Rooms , a venture which combined his engineering interests with a business providing teas, managed by his wife, Mary.
In 1897 , Stephens established the Clevedon Motor Company in the heart of his hometown. Driven by a passion for engineering excellence, Stephens envisioned creating high-quality motorcars that would meet and exceed the expectations of discerning customers. He assembled a team of skilled craftsmen who shared his commitment to quality and innovation. Together, they embarked on a mission to produce vehicles that would embody the spirit of reliability, performance, and craftsmanship and rival those produced in the automotive powerhouses of France and Germany.
The Birth of Clevedon Motor Cars
Clevedon Motor Cars were designed to be both reliable and luxurious. Stephens believed the motorcar should be a means of transportation and a symbol of status and sophistication. The vehicles were crafted with meticulous attention to detail, featuring elegant lines, handcrafted interiors, and innovative engineering solutions.
One of the early Clevedon models, the Type A, was a two-seater vehicle powered by a rear-mounted engine. It boasted a top speed of 25 miles per hour, considered impressive for the era. The prototype, AE 174, built in 1898, had been clocked at 47MPH!
The Clevedon Motor Cars were not merely utilitarian vehicles; they were works of art. The sleek lines, elegant curves, and attention to detail showcased the company’s commitment to aesthetic appeal. These vehicles were designed to turn heads and ignite the imagination of all who encountered them.
The 341 featured cavalry wheels, not spoked, and had an additional row on the front! You actually steer it from the second row!
Innovation and Engineering Prowess
Stephens and his team constantly pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering. They experimented with new engine designs, transmission systems, and suspension configurations, always seeking to improve their vehicles’ performance and reliability.
One of their most notable innovations was the introduction of a four-cylinder engine in 1902. This was a significant advancement, as most motorcars were still equipped with single or twin-cylinder engines. The four-cylinder engine gave Clevedon Motor Cars greater power and smoothness, making them even more appealing to potential buyers.
The 1,000-Mile Reliability Trial: A Moment of Triumph
In 1902, Clevedon Motor Cars achieved a remarkable feat that would forever solidify its reputation for reliability and performance. A Clevedon vehicle participated in the gruelling 1,000-mile reliability trial organised by the prestigious Automobile Club of Great Britain. This arduous test pushed cars to their limits, traversing challenging terrain and enduring extreme weather conditions.
The Clevedon car completed the trial and emerged victorious, demonstrating unparalleled endurance and resilience. This extraordinary achievement resonated throughout the automotive world, garnering widespread acclaim and attracting new customers eager to own a Clevedon Motor Car. The 1,000-mile trial became a defining moment in the company’s history, cementing its status as a leading manufacturer of reliable, high-performance vehicles.
The End of an Era
Despite its success, Clevedon Motor Cars faced numerous challenges in the early 20th century. The automotive industry was rapidly evolving, and more prominent manufacturers with greater resources emerged. These companies could produce cars more efficiently and at lower costs, making it difficult for smaller manufacturers like Clevedon to compete.
In addition, the First World War devastated the British automotive industry, forcing many small manufacturers, like Clevedon Motor Company, to close their doors in 1916. This starkly contrasted with the pre-war success that individuals like Richard Stephens enjoyed. Stephens, a true entrepreneurial spirit, amassed a considerable fortune selling brake kits for Model Ts, a testament to his innovative spirit and business acumen. Interestingly, the unique self-balancing brake he developed for his own Stephens’ car was the perfect solution to correct the problematic braking of Ford’s ubiquitous Model T! Stephens patented and built an aftermarket upgrade, which became invaluable to Ford’s clientele worldwide. His entrepreneurial ventures extended far beyond Clevedon, with workshops and retail locations in major cities like Paris, London, various locations across the US, and even Australia. This global reach exemplifies the broader pre-war optimism and expansion of the automotive industry, which was tragically cut short by the onset of the war. Richard Stevens did not die an impoverished genius.
A Forgotten Legacy
While the Clevedon Motor Company may have faded into obscurity, Richard Stephens’ legacy and innovative creations live on. Today, a few surviving Clevedon Motor Cars can be found in museums and private collections, serving as a reminder of a time when a small company from a seaside town dared to challenge the established automotive powers.
The story of Clevedon Motor Cars is a testament to the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that characterised the early days of motoring. It is a tale of a visionary engineer who pursued his passion with unwavering determination and a team of skilled craftsmen who brought his ideas to life.
Preserving the Memory
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the history of Clevedon Motor Cars. Local historians and automotive enthusiasts have formed groups dedicated to researching and preserving Richard Stephens’s legacy. Their efforts have led to the discovery of new information about the company’s history and the restoration of several surviving Clevedon vehicles.
The story of Richard Stephens and Clevedon Motor Cars serves as a reminder that even small companies can make significant contributions to the world of innovation. It is a tale of ambition, perseverance, and a passion for creating something extraordinary. While their time in the spotlight may have been brief, the legacy of Clevedon Motor Cars lives on, inspiring future generations of engineers and entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Mark was captivated by Richard Stephens’s story. His newfound knowledge strengthened his bond with his adopted hometown. It fuelled his desire to share this captivating story with the wider community, ensuring that Stephens’ contributions received the recognition they deserved.
Mark’s Community Engagement: Igniting Passion for a Forgotten Legacy
Mark’s journey began on June 11th, 2022, during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee British Makes ONLY event for which he created a Jubilee decal. Surprised to find himself the sole attendee familiar with Stephens’ work, Mark realised the urgency of his mission.
Embarking on extensive research, he organised a pivotal event: a forty-minute presentation at the Market Hall by William Fairney, author of Richard Stephens and the Clevedon Motor Cars . Mark extended invitations to a broad audience, including the Clevedon Civic Society and the Clevedon Cars & Coffee group, ensuring a diverse gathering.
Following Fairney’s presentation, which William graciously repeated to accommodate as many people as possible, Mark seized the opportunity to gauge community interest. He proposed the creation of a 1:1 scale monument of AE 174, the groundbreaking 1898 Stephens Prototype, in the heart of Clevedon. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing disbelief that such a tribute didn’t exist.
This event, held on June 8th, 2024, during the Clevedon Cars and Coffee gathering, marked a turning point. It ignited a shared enthusiasm for celebrating Richard Stephens’ legacy and ignited a community-wide effort to bring the monument to fruition. Mark’s dedication to sharing this forgotten history enriched Clevedon’s cultural landscape and fostered a renewed pride in the town’s innovative past.
On 3 rd July 3, 2024, supporter Tom Vaughan invited Mark to the BID meeting. Tom and Mark had previously worked on placing Board #4 on the Discover Clevedon History Trail. He was worried his Yankee candour was rather bracing! All the new faces and names were a blur, but his unbridled enthusiasm for the Stephens Monument in Clevedon was contagious.
On July 4th, 2024, Mark and William sought the expertise of Patrick Collins, Curator: Vehicles & Research at the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu. Their meeting with Collins proved invaluable, shedding new light on the true significance of Clevedon Motor Cars and solidifying Richard Stephens’ place within the broader narrative of British automotive history.
With his encyclopedic knowledge and keen insights, Collins provided a much-needed positive reality check, as Mark described it. Stephens’s contemporaries around England tended to be one-hit wonders producing a single car” With William Fairney’s book, Mark could show the national museum that Stephens had built a fleet. Collins spent two and a half hours with Mark, learning from each other’s puzzle pieces. This affirmation from a respected institution the automotive world further fuelled his determination to honour Stephens’ legacy and share his story with the world.
The encounter at Beaulieu served as a pivotal moment, reinforcing the importance of his mission and validating the historical value of Clevedon’s forgotten automotive pioneer. With a deeper understanding and renewed enthusiasm, Mark returned to Clevedon with a clearer vision of celebrating and commemorating Richard Stephens’ groundbreaking contributions.
Choosing the Perfect Location: A Monumental Decision
The decision of where to place the Richard Stephens monument is complex, demanding careful consideration to ensure the chosen location best reflects his legacy and Clevedon’s automotive heritage. Mark’s suggestion of Six Ways presents a compelling case, offering a harmonious blend of historical significance, practicality, and community benefit.
Six Ways, a busy intersection where Clevedon Cars & Coffee holds its monthly meet, is a fitting tribute to the spirit of automotive passion that Stephens embodied. The location’s historical ties, as the route Stephens’ vehicles once traversed delivering train passengers to the Clevedon pier, further amplify the monument’s resonance. It was also the site of the Coronation Clock, a 25-foot cast-iron monument erected in 1903 to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII, a symbol of civic pride and celebration that could be mirrored in the Stephens monument. Few today remember the Coronation Clock which was eventually scrapped during World War II due to its unreliability in keeping time.
Furthermore, situating the monument away from parks and pedestrian zones safeguards it from unintended damage and ensures its longevity. This practical consideration aligns with the desire to create a lasting tribute that will continue to inspire future generations.
The potential economic benefits for local businesses, who would see increased footfall from visitors drawn to the monument, add another layer to its value. This potential for partnership and shared investment further reinforces the monument’s role as a catalyst for community engagement and pride.
Standing proud at this crossroads, the monument would become a symbol of innovation, a beacon for enthusiasts, and a lasting tribute to a man whose contributions to the industry h 00ave long been overlooked.
Clevedon Civic Society enthusiastically supports the monument’s placement at Six Ways and is eager to partner with the community to prepare the site and town for this extraordinary gift.
Choosing Six Ways is not simply about finding a place to erect a statue; it’s about creating a meaningful connection between the past and present, honouring a forgotten pioneer, and fostering a sense of shared heritage within the community. It’s a decision that speaks to the heart of Clevedon’s identity and its enduring love for all things automotive.
A Gift to Clevedon: Proposed Richard Stephens Monument
Mark is pleased to offer the town an finished, unmounted Richard Stephens’ monument at the Six Ways roundabout. The town must approve the project, prepare the site, oversee the installation, and provide ongoing maintenance.
Such a monument would embody the spirit of local ingenuity, community engagement, and sustainable industry that defined the company’s legacy. This monument, transcending a simple statue or plaque, would stand as a testament to Clevedon’s enduring spirit of innovation, creativity, and self-reliance.
Design
In his tireless pursuit to honour Stephens’ legacy, Mark embarked on an ambitious quest to create a life-size monument that captured the essence of Stephens’ iconic designs. His relentless search led him to a remarkable discovery just three hours away—one of the original Stephens cars, meticulously preserved by its passionate owner. With unwavering generosity, the owner has granted Mark access to the automotive treasure, permitting him to employ cutting-edge 3D scanning technology to meticulously document every curve and contour of the car’s exterior. This digital model would be the cornerstone of the monument’s construction, ensuring unparalleled accuracy and fidelity to Stephens’ original vision during the intricate forging process. As you can imagine, he’s looking forward to starting.
While a testament to technological precision, the model would be a static representation, focusing exclusively on the car’s external form. Mark will deliver the 1:1 scale recreation of the monument fully galvanised to ensure its endurance and ease of maintenance. However, if adorned with a period-correct GRW brown finish, this homage would be so faithful as to blur the lines between the original and the recreation. The final colour decision, or to leave it raw galvanised, will reside with Clevedon, who will maintain the monument over time.
Mark was delighted to meet John Tranter and Jonathan Hurford of the Clevedon Civic Society to discuss the project. Their comprehensive brainstorming encompassed plinth design and construction, surrounding landscaping aesthetics, and meticulous coordination with Highways & Transport to ensure project approval and seamless integration into the Six Ways area. Considering all these questions holistically is essential. Addressing both safety and longevity, would ensure the monument stands as a timeless and fully approved tribute to Richard Stephens’ ingenuity and the enduring appeal of his automotive creations.
Beyond the Car: The Richard Stephens’ Monument as a Catalyst for Environmental Reflection
Given the undeniable environmental impact of the modern car industry, addressing the potential conflict between celebrating early automotive pioneers and advocating for sustainability is crucial. However, Richard Stephens’ work offers a unique opportunity to re-evaluate our approach to transportation and manufacturing.
Let’s consider the environmental footprint of Stephens’ prototype compared to today’s standards. Constructed over 127 years ago, it remains operational, built with locally sourced materials and a minimal number of components. A small team of five craftsmen assembled it, and in its final form, it transported nine passengers.
Crucially, its production did not involve the extraction of lithium, cobalt, bauxite, or manganese—rare earth elements often sourced from conflict zones and carrying significant environmental and social costs. A Stephens car lacks modern materials like boron, silicone, carbon fibre, plastics, titanium, or complex circuit boards, which pose disposal challenges.
Operating a Stephens vehicle today requires no globally shipped, refined, or processed materials, nor does it necessitate the construction of sprawling factories or extensive employee commutes. In stark contrast, every new car begins with a substantial environmental deficit, from resource extraction and manufacturing pollution to eventual disposal issues.
Even after 127 years of use, the cumulative exhaust emissions from a Stephens’ car used to transport nine people are likely to pale compared to the environmental harm caused by producing a single modern vehicle with a far shorter lifespan. To match Stephens’ longevity, we’d need to manufacture five or six cars over the same period, further amplifying the environmental burden.
Therefore, the proposed monument doesn’t simply celebrate a historical figure. It is a poignant reminder of when innovation and sustainability weren’t mutually exclusive. By honouring Richard Stephens, we can spark conversations about the importance of sustainable design, local manufacturing, and minimising our environmental impact, even as we advance technologically.
Clevedon Cars & Coffee: Reviving a Forgotten Legacy of Automotive Innovation and Community Spirit
The story of Richard Stephens and Clevedon Motor Cars is a testament to the enduring power of human ingenuity and community spirit. It transcends time, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the legacy of those who dared to dream big can continue to inspire.
As we stand on the precipice of a new era in automotive technology with electric cars and autonomous driving, it is essential to remember and honour the pioneers who paved the way. The proposed monument to Stephens and Clevedon Motor Cars is not merely a tribute—it’s a living testament to Clevedon’s rich history and a beacon for the innovators of tomorrow.
Let us embrace this opportunity to ensure that the story of Richard Stephens and Clevedon Motor Cars is not forgotten but celebrated as an enduring symbol of human creativity and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Mark Reber is a genuinely inspiring figure who has made an indelible mark on Clevedon in the short time he’s called it home. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to delve into his ambitious quest and share his story through my blog. His passion, drive, and staunch commitment to his vision are truly remarkable.
With the community rallying behind him, Mark is poised to embark on the next phase of this ambitious project: fundraising. Given Clevedon Cars & Coffee’s past charitable record, Mark is confident he can commence construction before the year’s end. Mark also invites the people of Clevedon and businesses to take their place on the donor board describing the monument.Given this support and his steadfast resolve, the Richard Stephens monument is poised to become a reality, forever etching the name of this forgotten pioneer into the annals of automotive history.
In recognition of the generosity of those who donate, a range of exclusive commemorative items await. A £10 donation secures a Clevedon Cars & Coffee decal, expertly printed by That Copy Shop. For £20, donors receive a keyring beautifully crafted by Nelson and Forge. And for those contributing £50 or more, a stylish polo shirt adorned with the Clevedon Cars & Coffee logo is the reward. Each donor will also have the option to have their name inscribed on a dedicated Donor Board, prominently displayed near the monument. This board will testify to the community’s collective effort in honouring Richard Stephens. Here’s the link where you can donate and help make this vision a reality: https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QMPMO7BX
And here’s the link to Mark’s website: https://www.clevedoncarsandcoffee.com/
All the best, Mark.