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Just Jags: Where the Old Cats Go to Die
While paying a visit to one of my old haunts, I came upon a Jaguar graveyard a stone's throw away - 'Just Jags'. For me, nothing is more haunting than the husk of a vehicle or building which exists in operative form elsewhere. Not knowing the safeguards such a property might have, I waited until an immaculate '77 XJ sleuthed in, and bracing myself, gingerly made my way out back to find someone who might be able to answer my questions.
The older British gentleman I found seemed very wary of my presence at first, but after discovering that I too was a car fan (if only aesthetically), he let me have free range of his bizarre property (warning me to watch my step).
Ok, so perhaps the business' name Just Jags is a bit misleading; although primarily Jaguars (including a custom-built limo and several funeral procession leads), there was a wide range of British and European wrecks on the lot.
Among those at the rear were several beautiful old Volkswagen Beetles, in various states of decay.
One of the more interesting vehicles was an old Alfa Romeo military jeep; I had initially mistaken this for a classic 'Willy's Jeep' by AMC (which later became Chrysler).
Old Mercedes' will always have a soft spot in my heart - the classic flagship of military and political leaders the world around.
There is something very profound and beautiful about an automobile put out to pasture. We rely so heavily on motor vehicles, and merely 'expect' them to keep going, day after day. Try dragging your washing machine up the stairs every day, and see how long it lasts.
Might this have been Herbie?
What is most beautiful about Just Jags is that, despite the title of this photo essay, it is actually a place of reincarnation; anyone who has owned a 70s-90s Jaguar (or knows someone who did/does), is well aware that it is a labour of love. They were not the most mechanically well build machines, but by God are they beautiful - even in their advanced demise.
A few more snaps from my journey into the car graveyard:
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Jonathan.
I find old rotted out cars 10,000 times more compelling than restored ones. Interest rises proportionately with the liklihood that the car is a complete basketcase.
I have been a customer of Just Jags since 1996. I have two "vintage-ish" Jags.
I helped the "older British gentlman" erect the sign you see on his building. He is actually from New Zealand, and although I consider myself to be a veritable ecyclopedia of Jaguar knowledge this man we refer to has forgotten more about Jaguars than I will ever know. I will be sorry when he finally quits the business.
I also love walking through that "graveyard off of Laird Drive in Leaside. Very poignant essay and well done indeed.