AMC 40th Anniversary plaque

The plaque reads:

"Behind this wall lies the site of the Associated Motorcycles (sic) factory where Matchless, AJS, Norton and other marques were manufactured until 1967. This plaque was erected to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the end of motorcycle production in Woolwich. It was unveiled by Councillor Peter Brooks, Deputy Leader of Greenwich Council on Sunday 9th September 2007."

Aside from the pedantic point that the sign ought to read "Associated Motor Cycles" and not "Associated Motorcycles" the factory proper, locally referred to as "Colliers", was actually in neighbouring Plumstead rather than adjacent Woolwich. But as the site was huge and touched upon various local wards, it makes no real difference.

Even more pedantically, there were actually two factories; one on Burrage Grove, and one on Maxey Road. The correspondence address was: Matchless Motor Cycles, Plumstead Road, London SE18. Telephone: WOOLwich 1223.

But when exactly did bike production end? Well, the last Plumstead-built AJSs rolled out of the factory in 1966. But the Matchless G80CS continued (in a smaller way) until 1969. Or so we believe. But if anyone has definitive information, we'd be pleased to receive it. Then again, does it really matter what is the correct date? It's history now.

[back to the AJS Model 18 & Matchless G80 heavyweight singles buyers guide]

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