The Holden Collection
General Motors-Holden’s was a cornerstone of Australia’s industrial identity and remains deep in the country’s psyche. Holden was established as a saddlery in Adelaide during the 1850s. It later moved to automobile assembly and motor body building before merging with General Motors in 1931.
From those early days through to the launch of Australia’s own car in 1948 and to the company’s closure, Rear Vision: the Holden Collection exhibition delves into Holden’s early years, manufacturing history (including during wartime), the role Holden played in shaping Australia’s post-war identity and, of course, cars.
This website tell stories of employees, the people who made the vehicles: those who pressed, bent and welded the metal, moulded the bumpers, cut and sewed the fabric trim, applied the paint, and much more.
Clocking on, 1964. SLSA: BRG 213/77/84/698
Clocking on, 1964. SLSA: BRG 213/77/84/698
ready to visit the exhibition?
Explore the rich social history of General Motors Holden, through the extensive archive of the State Library of South Australia, the exhibition explores the iconic car maker’s operations, workforce dynamics, technological innovations, and its profound impact on the national psyche. Experience the legacy of Holden, where history meets horsepower.
Featuring original materials from the Holden archive held by the State Library of South Australia, and contributions from former employees, this exhibition offers a unique glimpse into an iconic Australian institution.
Immerse YOURSELF IN THE PROGRAMS
Buckle up and explore a range of interesting and engaging talks, tours, events, car showcases and more during the exhibition.
There's a whole range of family activities also, including designing your own Holden, scavenger hunt and and opportunity to take a selfie in 'Australia's Own Car.'
There is sure to be something that will keep your engine revving.
THE HOLDEN ARCHIVE + research
Holden + the State Library
In 1991, the State Library of South Australia began what would become a long and proud association with General Motors Holden (GMH), when Holden started donating historic material to the library.
With the end of the Holden brand in Australia, the State Library became home to its archive, ensuring that this iconic brand’s memories and stories are kept alive for current and future generations to access and research.
The Holden Collection includes the archival records of GM Holden Ltd and Holden’s various iterations, including JA Holden & Co., Holden & Frost Limited, and Holden's Motor Body Builders Limited.
For 75 years Holden was operating in South Australia as its own entity, before becoming an official part of General Motors in 1931.
ACCESSING THE ARCHIVE FOR RESEARCH
The Holden Collection is held within the Archival Collections of the State Library as record group BRG 213 GM Holden Ltd.
To see archival records and listings for the Holden Collection, click on the link below to navigate to the main summary record, where two finding aids consisting of a series list and a series by car models and productions are available to guide your journey. Or alternatively, do an ARCHIVAL NUMBER search on BRG 213 to view all current catalogue records for holdings.
Digital copies of selected holdings are viewable from links within catalogue records.
Sales brochure of the 1974 Holden HQ Sandman panel van. SLSA: BRG 213/41/5/4
Sales brochure of the 1974 Holden HQ Sandman panel van. SLSA: BRG 213/41/5/4
Holden HQ Sandman sales brochure, January 1974. SLSA: BRG 213/41/5/4/1
Holden HQ Sandman sales brochure, January 1974. SLSA: BRG 213/41/5/4/1
Holden Torana sales brochure, January 1972. SLSA: BRG 213/55/5/1
Holden Torana sales brochure, January 1972. SLSA: BRG 213/55/5/1
Acknowledgements
State Library of South Australia
Holden Archivist: Sharon Frost, Exhibition Curator: Mark Gilbert
Thanks to the State Library’s conservation, digitisation, digital engagement, public programs, customer service staff, and former Holden Collection archivists.
Social Histories of Holden
Project funded by the Australian Research Council
Chief investigators - Dr Paul Sendziuk, Dr Carolyn Collins, Prof. Jennifer Clark
(all University of Adelaide) and Prof. Joan Beaumont (Australian National University)
The volunteers at the Holden Manufacturing Heritage Association at Elizabeth.
Sign up to our news | Contact us
© 2025 Copyright - State Library of South Australia
Built with Shorthand