Steam Railways

This book captures the end of mainline steam and the beginnings of preservation, featuring previously unpublished photographs of iconic locations and events.

The book Steam Railways offers a unique glimpse into the final years of mainline steam and the early days of preservation through a collection of previously unpublished photographs. These images, captured by David Reed, document the decline of steam trains on British Rail’s Southern Region, showcasing the poignant moments as these majestic engines were retired from service. Readers will find evocative shots from various scrapyards, where the remnants of once-proud locomotives lay waiting for their fate.

In addition to the scrapyard scenes, Steam Railways also highlights steam engines in various locations, including the locomotive graveyards at Salisbury, Weymouth, and Barry. The book captures the essence of an era, featuring steam engines that served London Transport, alongside the early years of steam preservation. Notable locations that have since vanished from the landscape, such as the Great Western Society at Taplow and the Wallingford branch, are documented, preserving their legacy for future generations.

The narrative extends to important events like the Longmoor Military Railway open days and the early days of the Dart Valley Railway at Buckfastleigh and Ashburton. Readers will also explore the Didcot Railway Centre, Dinting Railway Centre, Ashford Steam Centre, and the iconic Bluebell Railway, all of which played a significant role in the preservation of steam heritage. This book is a treasure trove for rail enthusiasts and historians alike, celebrating a cherished chapter in railway history.