The Gull Wing Group Turns 50

Back in 1961, The Gull Wing Group was born in San Francisco, California, led by Ernie Spitzer and comprising eighteen 300 SL Coupe owners. In order to mark the 50-year milestone, Mercedes-Benz USA has helped recreating one of the group's most famous photos taken in 1961 at Fort Point Park overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California.

There have been only 1400 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gull Wings" produced from 1954-1957. Currently, over 600 enthusiasts are part of The Gull Wing Group. About 100 members comprised of 24 Gull Wings and 14 Roadsters have participated in recreating the original photo.

In honor of the Gull Wing Group's milestone, Mercedes-Benz USA is donating 125 scholarships to provide children with the opportunity to participate in the  San Francisco Recreation and Park Department's unique summer educational programs designed to accentuate personal responsibility and initiative, and encourage children to pursue preservation in the future of America's national parks.

"The Gull Wing vehicle represents Mercedes-Benz leadership in style, design and performance, and this anniversary allows us a moment to celebrate the history of that legacy created over fifty years ago," said Steve Cannon, Vice President of Marketing, Mercedes-Benz USA. "As we look back, we also have to look to the future and that was our intention with the donation to provide San Francisco kids with the opportunity to attend summer camp through the Recreation and Parks Department program."

"Donations such as this one help San Francisco Recreation and Parks to fulfill its mission of providing enriching recreational activities to all San Franciscans," said Phil Ginsburg, San Francisco Recreation and Park Department's General Manager. "Our scholarships serve more than 2, 000 San Francisco children and families every year."