Issue 8 (October 2011)
A Smidge of Midge History
“The Midge” is the mascot that has adorned the MG for many years. It is an eye catcher and head turner whenever it is sighted. But what is the history of this flying mosquito and was it really a production item offered by MG?
Automobile mascots (hood ornaments) became a very popular item in the 1930s. Many marques strove to craft a mascot that would typify their branding of grace and elegance. Jaguar had the “Leaping Leopard”, Rolls the “Kneeling Lady”, and Auburn the “Flying Goddess”. Today, the Midge seems to exemplify this same level of beauty. However, this has not always been the case.
An initial sighting of the Midge was found in an advertisement of the May 1934 issue of “The MaGazine” (see Fig. 1). The ad confirms that the Midge was produced by H.J. Randall, Birmingham, England and was designed especially for MG car owners. It was also offered in 2 sizes: large and small.
According to historian Mike Worthington-Williams, “The MG Midge was only found on the 1935 ‘P’ type MGs”. However, despite its intended use for only the ‘P” type, it did appear in factory literature and was primarily sold as an accessory by University Motors Ltd, London acting as an MG agent.”
Late, in the July 1936 issue of “The Sports Car”, the previously referenced ad was repeated but instead now included the MG logo and words: “Obtainable from All MG Agents”. So this seems to affirm that a privately offered Mascot had been sanctioned and adopted by MG. (see Fig. 2)
However, the Midge had a short life. According to Worthington-Williams, the image it projected was found a little undignified and was therefore only formally offered with the 1935 ‘P’ Type.
An original 1st issue Midge can be identified with the marking “Reg Applied For”. Physical characteristics include chrome plated brass body, the proboscis (beak) is horizontal, and the lettering on the left base is: “MG CAR CO.” The later production marking added RD 786849.
Above and Below: Midge identification features
The Midge has proven to be a lasting icon for the MG community. As one unidentified MG owner stated, “while the Midge is elegant in shape and form, I cannot imagine MG allowing such an inelegant, nay ugly, detail as a gnat’s proboscis to adorn their fine machinery. However, a Midge now adorns my TC.”
As always I welcome comments and corrections:
Doug Pelton, doug’at’FromTheFrameUp.com
Editor’s Note: The Midge is once again available from Doug.
Doug Pelton
June 2011
hello,
i want to now where i can buy the Midge for mij MG-TD 1953
White greatings,
Bert Robben
Hello
i’m also searching for a Midge for 1950 TD.
Any help?
Greetings from Liechtenstein
Daniel Real
I offer the Midge. See catalog / Accesories AC101 or also visit Tech Tips Accessories. Doug
Just got mine! Thanks Doug it is awesome!
I’ve got a 1946 MG TC. TC1159. Inherited from my father. I am the 3rd owner of the car which at this point is at 95% restored. I have the Original License Plate issued in Glasgow Scotland.
I’m inquiring about the ‘Midge’ ornament for the radiator cap.
How Much? Available with radiator cap?
Dad really wanted to add the mascot to his car. He passed away before he could find one.
I really want to add this to my car. Ultimate plan is to make it the driver’s car it once was.
Email me when you get the chance. Keep on Motoring.
Hey Doug, still selling these, pop bought one 16 years ago from u. thanks Dave