Rare Sentinel steam wagons to go under the hammer

Historic steam wagons from a leading Shropshire manufacturer are set to cause a stir as part of a treasure trove of exceptionally rare collectables going under the hammer.

The Keeley Collection is expected to generate worldwide interest when it is sold at auction in May.

Among the lots are three historic steam wagons built by Shrewsbury-based manufacturers, Sentinel.

They include a 1929 five ton ‘Super’ named ‘Deborah’ which has a guide price of £100,000-£120,000 and should be in steam on the day of the sale.

There are also two model S4s in need of restoration which date from 1935 and 1936 and are expected to fetch between £35,000 and £55,000 each.

Sentinel was known for creating the most modern, sophisticated and fastest of all steam road vehicles. In the 1920s and 30s the company was producing wagons that were a serious and viable alternative to motor cars. They were only stifled by punitive government legislation and taxes.

The historically important Keeley Collection was owned by vintage steam enthusiast John Keeley, who passed away in December 1999. Together with his wife, May, he ran the internationally renowned Knowl Hill Steam & Country Show in Berkshire for more than 30 years.

The popular event – which attracted tens of thousands of visitors every year and raised money for local good causes – was held for the last time in 2004.

Following Mrs Keeley’s death in April last year, her family has now asked Cambridgeshire auctioneers Cheffins to sell the collection.

The Keeley Collection, which features 600 lots in total, will be sold at Knowl Hill, Berkshire, on Saturday, May 14 from 9.30am.