Steam & Railway Image Library - The Alan Ledger Collection

British Steam Railway History

The Heartbeat of British Rail: Saltley Loco Sheds, Birmingham

In the heart of Birmingham, a city steeped in industrial history, lies a railway hub that served as a vital cog in the transportation wheel – Saltley Loco Sheds. This article is just a very brief account of the history of Saltley Loco Sheds, exploring its inception, development, and eventual legacy as a testament to the evolution of railways in Britain. Origins and Establishment The story of Saltley Loco Sheds begins in the mid-19th century when the explosive growth of

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A Century of Steam: Locomotives in 20th Century Britain

The 20th century stands as a pivotal period in the history of Britain’s railways, characterised by the dominance, decline, and enduring legacy of steam locomotives. From the onset of the century to the mid-20th century, these formidable machines were integral to industrial, social, and technological progress, shaping the landscape of a nation in transition. Early 20th Century: The Golden Age As the 20th century dawned, steam locomotives were the driving force of Britain’s burgeoning railway system. The ‘Big Four’ railway

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Icons of Steam: The Legendary British Steam Trains of the 20th Century

The 20th century bore witness to the majesty of steam trains that crisscrossed the British landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history. These locomotives, feats of engineering prowess, embarked on famous journeys and became symbols of a bygone era. Let’s delve into the stories of five of the most famous steam trains that captivated hearts and minds throughout the 20th century. 1. The Flying Scotsman Engineering Marvel and Famous Journeys: The Flying Scotsman, built in 1923, is an

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