The History of Steam Trains
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing a steam train in real life, you’ll know how majestic these incredible machines really are. Introduced as a revolutionary form of transportation back in 1804, the steam train has enjoyed a fascinating journey of development and innovation. It’s now even the star of shows like Starlight Express, with theatregoers scrambling for musical tickets for this amazing production. Let’s delve deeper into the history of steam trains.
Steam Train Debut
Believe it or not, steam trains are well over 200 years old. The very first full scale working railway steam locomotive debuted in 1804 and was the invention of British mining engineer, inventor and explorer Richard Trevithick. On February 21, 1804, Trevithick demonstrated his pioneering engine by hauling ten tons of iron and 70 men nearly ten miles from Penydarren in Wales at a speed of five miles per hour. While seen as little more than a novelty to start with, Trevithick’s invention gained momentum and by 1845, 30 million passengers were being carried by steam train in Britain alone.
The Steam Train Revolution
Rocket’ by George and Robert Stephenson took steam train popularity to a new level, bringing steam travel to the masses. Indeed, Rocket was built to run on the Liverpool and Manchester Railway, the world’s very first intercity passenger railway line. Rocket won the 1829 Rainhill Trials, a competition which was used to decide the best mode of transport for the railway.
Boasting a masterful design, the Rocket had a cylindrical boiler featuring multiple fire tubes designed to increase the surface area for heating water. This improved the overall efficiency of the locomotive. It also had a tall and recognisable chimney at the front, a firebox at the rear end of the boiler where coal was burnt to create steam, and a separate fire tube boiler - a unique feature at the time. Rocket was painted bright yellow, helping it to make its mark on the history of British transportation.
Expansion and Worldwide Adoption
Between the 1830s and 1870s, the British steam railway network expanded significantly, becoming one of the most impressive in the world. Steam locomotives played a huge role in moving goods during the Industrial Revolution Other countries started to follow suit including the United States, Germany and France. British steam train technology was adopted and adapted accordingly.
End of an Era
Steam trains were phased out in favour of diesel and electric locomotives after the Second World War, with many retiring by 1960/70. Many have been preserved and now operate solely on heritage railways for tourists. Famous examples include the Flying Scotsman and The Jacobite, which featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter movies.
If you’re fascinated by steam trains, don’t miss the Starlight Express musical, now playing at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. As a lively, upbeat production with a much-loved soundtrack, this show documents the courage and determination of a steam locomotive when he’s put to the test against more modern trains. Tickets for this musical sell fast, so buy yours today.
