Stanley Steamer a Very Thirsty NC500 Visitor

Garve and District Community Council

Added at 18:44 on 22 September 2025

Visitors to Garve Public Hall were treated to an unusual sight today, a 1912 Stanley Steamer, one of the few remaining steam-powered cars still on the road. Stopping in for water and a comfort break as part of a tour along the NC500, the gleaming vintage machine turned plenty of heads.

The Stanley Steamer is no ordinary car. Burning through a gallon of water for every mile and cruising at around 35mph, it’s a living piece of motoring history. In fact, a modified version of this very model set a world land speed record back in 1906, reaching an astonishing 127mph.

By chance, the visit coincided with a Strathgarve Primary School's gym class – much to the delight of the children. They gathered eagerly around as the passenger explained how the car worked and fielded endless questions. The highlight? All of the children got to honk the car’s horn, leaving the hall filled with excited smiles and a chorus of steam-era toots.

Thanks to our Chairman Bob for the news and the photo.