Lionel Martin

Full Name: Lionel Walker Birch Martin
Profession: Businessman and Automobile Pioneer

Biography: Lionel Martin co-founded Aston Martin. His passion for cycling and motorsports led him to establish this iconic luxury car brand, best known for its frequent appearances in James Bond films.

Born in Cornwall as an only child, Martin grew up in Knightsbridge and attended Eton College and then Brasenose College at Oxford. During his time at university, he developed a strong interest in cycling and even set records with his tandem partner, Henry Curtis-Bennett.

Martin's love for speed extended beyond cycling, as he participated in motorcycle and sidecar competitions, hill climbs, and classic trials. Through his involvement in the Bath Road Club, he met Montague Napier, and they went into partnership to sell cars in 1903.

In 1912, Martin and his friend Robert Bamford co-founded Bamford and Martin Limited in Kensington. They named their first prototype the Aston-Martin, inspired by their races at Aston Hill, and the iconic AM radiator badge was born.

Martin's personal life was marked by tragedy when his first wife, Christine Murray, died in 1913 after giving birth to their son. He later married Katherine King in 1917 and lived in London throughout his life.

Sadly Martin died in 1945 at the age of 67 after being knocked off his bicycle, but his legacy is continued by the Aston Martin brand.

Born: March 15, 1878
Birthplace: Cornwall, England, United Kingdom
Star Sign: Pisces

Died: October 14, 1945 (aged 67)
Cause of Death: Knocked off his bicycle at a set of traffic lights