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Tracing a 1956 Morris from across the Pond...

Posted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 9:41 pm
by Gonker44
Dear all, this is a first time post, seeking assistance!
I am trying to locate the history and problbe ending of a 1956 Morris 2 door convertible, green which had an interesing history.

Serial No# 278278 - does this make sense?

It was purchased by my late father on 11th Aug 1959 when we were at that time living in San Francisco, for $650.
It was then used locally and then from the 13th-31st August 1960 they traversed the USA from SFO to NYC - my parents & myself (4 years old) on board. 3861 miles recorded by mother, stop by stop in great detail.

It was then transported across the Atlantic, arriving in Southampton.

On 17th September 1960 it was released by Customs and given the Registration number 9335CR but that was possibly a mistake and it could have been CR 9335 - I'm sure one of you will know the correct numbering!

My father had it converted to RH Drive and it was kept until around 1964. Since then I have no information, and wonder if anyone can shed any light?

This August I am planning to replicate the SFO-NYC trip... but will be in a Mini or a Range Rover...

I 've attached 3 photos for your interest.

Thanks in anticipation
Gordon

Re: Tracing a 1956 Morris from across the Pond...

Posted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 10:17 pm
by busguy
9335 CR would be correct for a Southampton allocated registration to an imported vehicle in 1960. However, the number is not shown as current on the UK DVLA vehicle register, so it has likely been scrapped. There is always a remote chance it is tucked away in storage, but the logbook details should have been transferred to the DVLA computer in the late 1970's/early 80's. So sorry, it is not good news!

Re: Tracing a 1956 Morris from across the Pond...

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 10:28 am
by Gonker44
Many thanks for that information - sad that it is! I assume there is now no way of tracing its historty until its end?

Re: Tracing a 1956 Morris from across the Pond...

Posted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 1:12 pm
by myoldjalopy
Hi Gordon,
Yes, it is sad. I regret that the first Minor I ever knew (belonged to a dearly-loved great aunt and later to my parents) was consigned to the scrap yard a looong time ago. But I love your pics - especially the one of (presumably?) your Dad all smart in his 1960's shirt and tie in a sunny US street. Happy days!