Our History

A Legendary Inheritance

The Aston Martin Heritage Trust was established in the last months of the twentieth century to preserve and commemorate a legendary inheritance. There is no marque of excellence in the British motor industry more revered for its special qualities than Aston Martin, no more enduring source of distinction.
Since Aston Martin was founded by Lionel Martin in 1914, the company which bears his name has provided inspiration to generations of craftsmen and designers - as well as to a galaxy of great drivers. It was one of the first classic automobile companies, making cars by hand as it does, combining beauty with excellence of function. The Company, which has survived all the challenges of the age of mass production, has still made only fewer than 15,000 cars. But 12,000 at least are still alive and well and bring a unique kind of pleasure to owners and enthusiasts all over the world.

A Trust For All Time

The Aston Martin Owners Club was founded in 1935 to respond to the growing community of interest in the marque. It now has nearly 5000 members worldwide in 54 countries on 6 continents.
Over the years, the Club has accumulated what amounts to the entire history of Aston Martin from its earliest days. The unique treasure of memorabilia, drawings, engineering designs, works of art, photographs and ephemera includes an extraordinary collection of trophies, won by cars and drivers in competition with the world's finest sports cars. The trophy collection was substantially enriched in 1998 through a benefaction of Sir David Brown's widow, Paula. A fine example of the Aston Martin 'Ulster' was bequeathed to the Club by Lewis Treece. Members of the Club individually own all the great Aston Martins that have survived.

The Making of a Charity

In 1998 the Owners Club decided to establish an independent trust as a registered charity so that the heritage in its hands could safely take the road into the next century and secure its treasures for the use and inspiration of future generations. Apart from any other consideration, these holdings are an inestimable educational asset. Their guaranteed security also provides private owners of Aston Martin memorabilia, artefacts and cars the opportunity to assign them, should they wish, to a safe haven where their future can be guaranteed.