Traction Engine Rallies: An Appreciation Over Seventy Years, 1950-2019

Traction engine and steam wagon rallies began in the 1950s and 1960s, with origins in a race between two engine-owning farmers. The rally movement grew, with some celebrating fifty or more years of activity. One-off events have also been featured, showcasing the individual character of each rally and the highlights of events the author has visited over the last fifty years.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The commercial era of traction engines and steam wagons reached its conclusion in the 1950s and early 1960s, coinciding with the emergence of preservation and display through rallies. It is widely accepted that the traction engine rally scene originated from a race between two engine owners in August 1950 at Appleford, Berkshire. The rally movement experienced rapid growth as area preservation societies were established. While some of these early societies and rallies endured for decades, they occasionally relocated to different sites. Additionally, there were several one-off events that occurred over time.

Over the years, the concept of rallies has evolved significantly. Instead of solely focusing on ring events, many now strive to incorporate working areas where various types of engines can be showcased performing the tasks for which they were designed. This book showcases a diverse range of rallies, beginning with some of the early events of the 1950s and 1960s. It then delves into a few one-off events, explores rallies that have ceased to take place, and concludes with examples of rallies that continue to thrive. The primary objective of this book is to portray the unique character of each rally and highlight notable highlights from the author's extensive travels over the past fifty years.

Weight: 1072g
Dimension: 224 x 288 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399081672