Tacoma, WA – The LeMay Museum has confirmed the addition of the 1950 Daimler “Green Goddess” Drophead Coupe to its collection. This gift was generously given to the Museum by Wes and Nancy Lematta. This Daimler broadens the Museum’s collection by adding an important element of world history to the visitor experience.
President and CEO, David Madeira said, “I am delighted by the Lematta’s donation of this rare and beautiful vehicle. The Daimler was a prized part of their personal collection and they wanted to be sure it was preserved intact and exhibited in America’s Car Museum rather than sold some day to an indiscriminate fate. Wes and Nancy are leaving part of their legacy with the Museum and we will be good stewards of this wonderful automobile.” Wes Lematta is founder of Columbia Helicopters, which is also the named sponsor of the new Museum’s helipad.
This Daimler is one of only eight built by the oldest British marque and was once part of the famed Harrah car collection. The first Daimler built was called the “Green Goddess”, a moniker that was bestowed upon all eight cars, however, each car is actually slightly different from the others. The Lematta’s Daimler has been completely restored and earned a class win at the 1994 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Daimlers have been known for their association with the British Royal Family. Well into the 1950s, Daimler limousines served as primary transportation for England’s King and Queen, as well as other heads of state throughout the world. The Museum also has a 1913 Austro Daimler – of the German Daimler factory – in it’s collection.