Travelling by Train in the Edwardian Age

A book about steam trains in the Edwardian era, Travelling by Train in the Edwardian Age, published in 1979, is a fascinating social document that reflects an important aspect of Edwardian times. It brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of the railways in their heyday, with an express train being the fastest thing on earth. The author pays tribute to the hardworking and often dangerous labor of drivers, foremen, signalmen, and other railway staff who made cheap and comfortable travel possible. The book also highlights important developments in locomotive and rolling stock design, station architecture, and signaling technology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 102 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1979, Travelling by Train in the Edwardian Age is a captivating book for steam train enthusiasts, but it is so much more than that. It serves as a fascinating social document that captures a significant aspect of Edwardian times. The author vividly brings to life the sights, sounds, and aromas of the railways during their heyday, when an express train was the epitome of speed and luxury. The unforgettable scent of steam, coal dust, and oil; the vibrant liveries of numerous companies; the distinctive voices of the engines and their whistles; the elegant décor of the gaslit carriages, with their strict division into classes; all come alive through the author's boyhood memories.

However, the author emphasizes that the affordable and comfortable travel of that era was made possible by the tireless and often dangerous work of drivers, foremen, signalmen, and other railway staff. He pays tribute to their loyalty and expertise in the face of often challenging circumstances and crude equipment. The author also gives due attention to the significant developments in locomotive and rolling stock design, station architecture, and signalling technology during that period.

The many rare period photographs, combined with the author's vivid memories and evident enthusiasm, make this book a truly informative and entertaining masterpiece. It is a must-read for anyone who has a passion for steam trains and the history of the Edwardian era.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 235 x 200 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032599908