C S Rolls and C Johnson before the start of the Paris-Boulogne Race, 1899

C S Rolls and C Johnson before the start of the Paris-Boulogne Race, 1899. Photograph taken from an album of prints collected by English motorist, motor car manufacturer and aviator Charles Stewart Rolls (1877-1910). Rolls was a keen driver and was well known in the car world. He took part in many early motor races, such as the 1000 Mile Trial (1900) and the 15,000 Mile Trial (1907). On this occasion 'due to no Tourist class existing in this race, Rolls' chances were negligible and he consequently came last in his category'. He founded Rolls-Royce Ltd with Sir Frederick Henry Royce (1863-1933) in 1906. Claude Johnson was a founder of the Automobile Club and Rolls' partner in a business importing and selling French cars from showrooms in London. He played an important role in bringing Rolls and Royce together. ©SSPL/Science Museum