Southward Museum Letter 2003

609 Gordon Road
HASTINGS

7 April 2003

The Manager
Southward Museum Trust Inc
Otaihanga Road
PARAPARAUMU

Dear Sir

I own and have done so for 23 years, a Mk II Square 4 Ariel motorcycle

Because of physical disability, I can no longer ride it and was wondering if your organisation would be interested in purchasing this lovely classic machine.  I have been told many times that it is the best example in New Zealand.

Over the years it has been totally rebuilt and it is really too good to be used on a daily basis.  It is most suited as a show bike.

I do not know if you have one of these machines, but this one would be an asset to your wonderful collection.  The unusual design of the engine makes this model of Ariel’s quite unique.  I have enclosed a photograph for your perusal.

The actual year of manufacture was 1954, but it has been upgraded to look like a 1956 model by fitting the headlight nacelle, full width hub, 1 gallon oil tank etc. from a 1956 model.

It is certainly a lovely machine and I was encouraged by a friend to contact you as he, like myself, would just hate to see it fall into the wrong hands and I consider your museum is its rightful home.

I have had this machine valued by two people separately and both have said I would be foolish to let it go for less than $15,000 (firm).

If you are interested in this machine, you can contact me either at the above address or phone me on 06 876 8530.

I am a retired person so I am available most times.

Yours faithfully

Matt Tweedie