Irishman's Diary - Kenelm Lee Guinness

I have just written a new Irishman's Diary in today's Irish Times newspaper. It's about the award-winning racing driver and automotive engineer, Kenelm (Bill) Lee Guinness (1887-1937). Here is a link to the article.

This is a photograph of Kenelm Lee Guinness driving a Sunbeam, accompanied by his mechanic, Bill Perkins. Image source: Gallica, BnF

Michelin Guide to the British Isles 1911 - Irishman's Diary

I have just written an Irishman's Diary in today's Irish Times newspaper about one of the earliest guides for motorists in Ireland. The Michelin Guide to the British Isles was first published in 1911.

Photograph of 'Bibendum': Michelin's mascot, aka 'The Michelin Man'. Image Source.

The guide, while it looks relatively basic by today's standards, contained information on relevant facilities in towns and villages all over Ireland, as well as some information on car maintenance. Read my article here.