Rolls-Royce Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Hood Ornament in Style

By San Francisco Limousine Specialist on March 15, 2011

Now here’s a story worthy of celebration! Legendary luxury automaker Rolls-Royce celebrated the 100th anniversary of their inimitable hood ornament recently by sending 100 Rolls-Royce automobiles of all vintages out into the streets of London. The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy has graced the hoods (bonnets on that side of the Atlantic) of Rolls-Royce motorcars for the last 100 years and is one of the most universally recognized symbols in the world.

Rolls-Royce aficionados will know that a fellow named Charles Skyes designed the Spirit at the request of Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, publisher of car magazines at the dawn of the 20th century. Rumors flew over the years that the symbol was modeled after Lord Montagu’s clandestine lover, a woman named Eleanor Thornton. Lord Montagu steadfastly denied that the rumor had any merit, but his 1909 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was the very first Rolls to feature the distinctive hood ornament. What most Rolls enthusiasts don’t know is that the Spirit did not come standard on all Rolls-Royce models until the 1920s. Until then, the flying lady was an option for several years available for an extra charge. The motorcade of 100 Rolls models made a slow, ostentatious tour of central London roads to the delight of British auto fans and Rolls-Royce lovers from around the world.

Count us among those who have a special place in their hearts for Rolls-Royce models of every vintage. We love them so much that we even offer a few antique Rolls-Royce limousines in our fleet of San Francisco limo rentals. We offer the following:

•    Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud
•    Silver Cloud Convertible
•    1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith

These vehicles add an unmistakable element of style and class to any occasion, and they are especially popular for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and other special occasions. The next time you need a Bay Area limousine rental, whether you prefer the newest models or timeless classics, call us first at 1-800-339-8936 for the best service and selection. We’d like to wish a very happy and belated birthday to the Spirit of Ecstasy from your fans at NLS Limo!