Traction Engine Ncws
One Shilling
July 1957
CONTENTS Editorial 1957 Arrangements
page 3 3
C. M. R. Andover Rally
4
Appleford Rally
7 8
Northleach Rally Fowler 15657 "Kitchener" News Flashes The Versatile TracriOrt Engine Aroi.ind the Counties
10 12 13
NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB GENERAL COMMITTEE AND OFFICERS (Elected 24th November, 1956)
CHAIRMAN: E. R. DEAMER, Esq., Home Farm, Caxton, Cambs. GENERAL COMMITTEE: J. R. Beeby, Esq., Wymeswold, Rempstone, Nr. Loughborough, Leics. J. Crawley, Esq., 51, Putnoe Lane, Bedford. Norman L. Dickson, Esq., Bradwell House, 33, Collingwood Road, Witham, Essex. A. C. Durrant, Esq., 94, Leigh Gardens, Kensal Rise, London, N.W.IO. J. T. Fensom, Esq., Friars Wash, Flamstead, St. Albans, Herts. A. Dacre Lacy, Esq., 5, Stanhope Row, London, W.I. Alan J. Martin, Esq., 18, Pavilion Way, Eastcote, Ruislip, Middlesex. A. C. Napper, Esq., Bridge Farm, Appleford, Berks. Dr. G. J. Romanes, Coombe Bank, Uckfield, Sussex. S. A. Smith, Esq., Long Green, Cressing, Nr. Braintree, Essex. F. Upton, Esq., " The Hut ", Windsor Road, Maidenhead, Berks. S. J. Wharton, Esq., Minster Lovell, Oxford. Rev. Philip A. Wright, M.B.E., Hon.C.F., The Vicarage, Woodford Bridge, Essex.
Two members to be co-opted by the Committee.
J. S. H. Ward, Esq., Thorpe Lee Engineering Works, Egham, Surrey. (Co-opted) (Chairman, N.T.E. & T.A.) Secretary Frank Stephens, 52, Bedford Row, London, W.C.I. Treasurer: E. W. Edney, 33, Portsmouth Road, Horndean, Hants. Membership Secretary: Gerald Shipman, 14a, Neville Street, London, S.W.7. Editor: Dr. G. J. Romanes. Public Relations Officer: A. Dacre Lacy, Esq. Member iic Club ties, badges, etc. Harold Bonnett, Esq., 24, Torrington Road, Perivale, Greenford, Middlesex. Cover Photograph:—Mr. A. C. Napper with his Marshall traction No. 37690 " Old Timer " and Mr. F. Upton's Wallis & Steevens traction No. 7683 " Eileen ". These were the two tractions which raced at Nettlebed in 1951 when the latter engine was owned and driven by the Editor, and as a result revived so much cf the present-day interest in steam road vehicles. Photograph by A. J. Martin, taken after the recent Appleford Rally.
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EDITORIAL The Rally season is in full swing. Verbal reports reaching us tell of repeated successes in many directions. There have been good crowds, good entertainment given and good fellowship and fun had by drivers and owners. Most of the Rallies have been run on the Club's pattern—a pattern evolved by some years of experience. All this is a healthy trend and one in which we share. Appleford was a success, and financially has gone a long way towards clearing up the mess of the previous season. We look forward to Woburn on August Bank Holiday.
1957 ARRANGEMENTS The Club's A.G.M. is to be held on Saturday, 26th October, when Appleford cheques and awards will be distributed. Important decisions have to be taken, so please reserve the date. More details of place and time in next issue. Northumbrian East Anglia Chester-le-Street ... Camborne, Cornwall Woodton, Suffolk Kegworth Taunton ... Moreton, Essex Elham Woburn ... Paddock Wood ... Cranborne, Dorset
13th-14th July 13th July 13th July 20th July 20th July 27th July 27th July 27th July 3rd August 5th August 17th August 7th September
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COMMITTEE MEETING REPORT A Committee Meeting was held on the 18th May, 1957, at 52, Bedford Row, W.C.1, commencing at 2.30 p.m. Present : S. J. Wharton (acting Chairman)..1. R. Beeby, H. Bonnett, J. Crawley, A. C. Durrant, E. W. Edney, J. T. Fensom, A. Dacre Lacy, A. J. Martin, A. C. Napper, Dr. G..1. Ron-lanes. G. Shipman and Rev. P. A. Wright. The Chairman, Mr. E. R. Deamer, could not be present and sent an apology. Mr. S. J. Wharton was elected Chairman of the meeting in his stead. The minutes of the last Committee Meeting were taken as read, as they were published in the April issue of " Steaming ".
Matters arising: The Woburn Rally is due to take place on the 5th August, i.e. Bank Holiday Monday, and Mr. John Crawley reported that he had already sent out 83 invitations and so far 26 entries had been received. Mr. Crawley stated that, with the preliminary work done, he now felt a committee should be set up to do the work connected with the running of the Rally on the actual day. it was agreed that Mr. A. Dacre Lacy should take over as Ring Manager, or, in his absence, Mr. Valentine Westerman, who has had much experience as Paddock Manager on many occasions in the past. The rest of the committee to comprise Mr. Crawley, who agreed so continue as secretary, and Mr. Shipman. It was emphasised that at least 10 Stewards would be required to make the day a success, and if Club Members who are hoping to be present could give some help this would be appreciated : prior notice to Mr. Crawley would enable some arrangements
to be made. Mr. Crawley asked whether 25 per cent of the takings of the Woburn Rally could be devoted to the Bedford Club. This was agreed unanimously in view, of the amount of work being undertaken by the Bedfoid members. The Treasurer, Mr. E. W. Edney, stated that there was a sum of £20 in the Bank Account and bills were read out totalling £145. Mr. Gerald Shipman, Membership Secretary. reported that he had some £30 to hand over to the Treasurer as a result of his efforts to bring the Membership List up to date. it was pointed out that the transfer of the Club Account to Mr. Edney's bank would be a difficult procedure in view of the outstanding debts, and Mr. Edney offered to put a balance into the new account at his bank of £100 to tide things over and to make the arrangements workable for the time being. This very generous offer was gratefully accepted, and Mr. Edney deserves the gratitude of ail members of the Club. With regard to the Club's debtors, it was felt that the position was not satisfactory and professional advice has been sought in order to help the Club collect its debts. The Editor of the magazine " Steaming " was authorised to continue with the publication, but was asked to increase his search for a cheaper method of
production. Mr. Bonnett reported low stocks of lapel badges and the provision of a further supply was agreed. Sentinel: On this topic it was agreed to ask the North Thames Gas Board for permission to dispose of the engine, as it was beyond the Club's resources at present to put it into running order. Discussion took place concerning the safety of spectators and others at rallies. The Committee felt concerned as to whether the present recommendations were satisfactory in view of the ageing of engines and the impossibility of large replacements of boiler parts. It was agreed to carry on with the present arrangements for the time being, but to refer the question to the Annual General
Meeting. It was resolved that the next Committee Meeting should take place after the Appleford Rally, to discuss the financial position of the Club in the light of that Rally's gate. The meeting closed at 6.30 p.m.
5
ANDOVER RALLY by Gordon Howell
On the morning of the Rally the weather certainly seemed to be threatening. The clouds were low, it was raining fairly steadily, with one or two hard showers. Several of the veteran cars were coming in and their crews looked like North Sea fishermen in their oilskins. The weather improved, the clouds broke up, and out came the sun at last. This, and a moderate breeze, soon dried up the field, and the best of weather was enjoyed for the rest of the afternoon. The rally was well supported, there being 23 engines—I4 of which arrived the day before—and 50 veteran cars. It was opened by Arthur Napper's Fowler No. 15710, driven by Air-Marshal C. N. Bilney. Equal honours must go to the two Burrell 8 h.p. showman's engines— James & Cockerell, Ltd., with the "Prince of Wales" No. 3887 and Cyril Nichols, of Gloucester, with " Lord Nelson " No. 3443. " Prince of Wales " from Durrington has now been restored to her former condition and has the correct size generator fitted. She has also been lined in exactly the way she was when owned by Mess! 5. Jennings, of Devizes. The same can be said of the " Lord Nelson ", although her roof lettering is not quite the same standard as on the former engine. However, Mr. Nichols has made a fine job of restoration, this taking seventeen months to complete. His work has been well rewarded, for he steamed his engine from Gloucester to Andover, some 80-odd miles, and had no trouble at all. Another engine to travel a long distance to and from the rally was " Lorna ", a 5 h.p. Aveling & Porter 1928 Tractor, No. 11997, owned and driven by J. Jupp, from Uckfield. He was accompanied by his wife, who did the cooking, etc., in the caravan, this rally being taken as their holiday. Three days were taken on the run up and five on the return trip, a good many calls being made g❑ing back home to visit other engine owners. Mark Loader (Bournemouth). Ltd.. were again here with two engines, the Wallis Tractor No. 7881 and a Fowler Tractor No. 12255 " Princess ". This at one time had been a showman's engine, but it now has a short cab and the dynamo is missing. The Rollers were well represented this year, there being three altogether. The Aveling & Porter " Comet 57 ", No. 9382, owned by D. Marder of Andover, looked very elegant in its new coat of light green paint. This is a compound and has a belpair fire-box. The Aveling & Porter single of Messrs. James & Cockerell looked as well as ever. Watson & Haig, Ltd., allowed us their Tasker 10 single cylinder Roller this year. This is the last steam vehicle ever built by Taskers and is still used most days by the Andover Council. Mr. Edney had a late type Marshall agricultural engine here this year. This was a Compound No. 87087, year 1933, and she looked very impressive. During the events she developed driving-pin trouble and had to be towed off the arena by Mr. Toomers' Fowler single-cylinder " Alfred ". There was only one Sentinel and ❑ne Foden there this year, the former belonging to G. B. King, wh❑ drove her down from near Bristol. This Is a D.G. Wagon No. 8784, and was new in 1935. The Foden, of course, was the one that is based at Andover and belongs to Messrs. Barnett & Howell, No. 14070 " Mighty Atom ", and is known now to most people. Mr. R. Baker, of Southampton, had a very nice Burrell showman's tractor there. This left Burrell's works in 1920 as a showman's tractor, No. 3868 " Russell Baby ". The Wallis No. 7115 single-cylinder has changed hands since last year and is now owned by R. Old, of Bralshfield, Ramsey. Mr. A. E. Newbery brought his Burrell agricultural engine No. 37913 down from Kingsclere on the Saturday morning, but was a little late and did not take part In the parade. This engine has been re-named " Red Gauntlet ", and at one time was in the hands of C. Nichols as " Nora ". The Burrell tractor No. 3458, belonging to Messrs. Shipman & Barker, made its debut at Andover, as this is the first rally this engine has attended, and quite a lot of work had to be done to get in shape in time.
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Mr. J. Hirst had an Alichin single-cylinder engine rescued from the scrapyard in time for the rally. This was done by some of the Andover steam enthusiasts, although no time was in hand for cleaning, as she only came into the It was a typical example of the way area on the Wednesday before the rally. Everything was covered in rust and engines are bought for preservation. cobwebs, tufts of grass and stinging nettles were in the wheels, but this did not stop her from going, and, apart from the usual leaking glands, she should do up all right.
. Little Giant " No. 1318 Taskers of Andover (1932), Ltd., again had the " Al on view : this had been recently re-painted. No one should be able to say that engines were raced or flogged here this year, as all events were slowed up as much as possible. i here were no flat races at all, ❑ wing to lack of entrants in the Foden and Sentinel classes. Musical chairs still seemed very popular, as did the tug-o'-war, die Fowler " Alfred " losing to " Princess ", a much younger engine. The Burrell " Prince of Wales " stood in the Market Place, Andover, for some five hours generating light on the Friday evening before the rally.- This proved to he of much interest to everyone, and for the whole time there was a good crowd around the engine. The Taskers " A.I Little Giant " and a veteran car stood side by side in one of the local garage showrooms in the main street for a week before the rally, and these also created much interest in passers-by. A marked improvement was the total enclosure of the arena, which allowed spectators to view in safety all the events. The usual display of models were on view in the marquee, and a large scale model tractor engine, owned by Mark Loader (Bournemouth), Ltd., was to be seen steaming around during the afternoon. A 71 gauge miniature railway, owned by L. Willoughby, of Eastleigh, was also in operation.
The Rally Secretary was, as in previous years, Gordon Howell, of Andover. Entrants Alichin traction No. 152.5. Aveling & Porter roller No. 8832. Aveling & Porter roller No. 9382. Aveling & Porter tractor No. 11997 " Lorna ". Burrell showman's road locomotive No. 3443 " Lord Nelson ". Burrell tractor No. 3458 " Defiance ". Burrell traction No. 3798 " Red Gauntlet ". Burrell tractor No. 3868 " Russell Baby ". Burrell showman's road locomotive No. 3887 " The Prince of Walec ". Foden tractor No. 14070 " Mighty Atom ". Fowler traction No. 7786 " Alfred ". Fowler road locomotove No. 12255 " Princess ". Fowler traction No. 15710 " Tommy ". Garrett tractor No. 33987. Marshall traction No. 87087 " Dorothy ". Sentinel wagon No. 8784. Tasker tractor No. 1318. Tasker 10-ton roller. Wallis & Steevens traction No. 7115. Wallis & Steevens tractor No. 7881.
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APPLEFORD RALLY The Rally took place on Saturday, 8th June, 1957, on its usual site at Mr. Napper's farm. The morning was marred by a heavy thunder shower, which probably influenced the decision of many people who would otherwise have attended it. However, the weather cleared in the afternoon, and it was glorious sunshine with a spot of wind which dried the grass. The course was set out in the customary manner and the rally was supported by seventeen engines. There was quite a crowd of people—varying estimates between 1-8,000. The rally was opened by Mr. Bob Arnold, of " The Archers " fame, who did yeoman service by signing autographs throughout the day. He mingled freely with the crowd, and it is felt that his congenial personality did much t❑ promote the friendly atmosphere which prevailed. The programme consisted of a parade, with a commentary by Mr. J. S. H. Ward. This was followed by Musical Chairs, the Obstacle Race. Ladies' Challenge Trophy and Beer in Bucket Race. At the end ❑f the day the trophies were presented by Mr. Bob Arnold :— Highest Points gained in the three Classes Prize: Curtis Challenge Trophy. Winner: Mr. A. C. Napper with his Marshall " Old Timer ". Engine Elegance Prize: Choisy & Simson Trophy. Winners: Messrs. Barber & Dobson with their Burrell "' The Prince of Wales ". Best Performance by a Newcomer Prize: Dacre Lacy Challenge Trophy. Winners: Messrs. T. T. Boughton & Sons' Foden Steam Wagon. A subsequent analysis of the results makes the Committee confident of the future of Traction Engine rallies. It is hoped that this short account will give members an idea that the Club's No. I Rally is very vigorous and provides a good spectacle. It was, indeed, pleasant to see so many members there. Entrants: Burrell 1913 " King George VI ". Burrell 1913 " May Queen ". Burrell 1922 " The Prince of Wales ". Burrell 1913 originally " The Defiance ". Burrell 1913. Burrell 1901 " Forest Queen ". " D " Type Foden 1932 " Mighty Atom ". Foden Steam Wagon 1929. Fowler 1922 " Tommy ". Foster 1925 " Matilda ". Garrett 1921 " Patricia ". Marshall 1902 " Old Timer ". Marshall 1917 " Farmer's Friend ". Sentinel Wagon. Wallis & Steevens 1900 " Pandora ". Wallis & Steevens 1919 " Eileen—The Erring ". Wallis & Steevens 1930 " The Duke of Wellington ".
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NORTHLEACH RALLY-15th JUNE, 1957 by P. A. Mathieson Entrants Burrell Showman's Road Locomotive 3443 " Lord Nelson " (Mr. C. T. J. Nichols). Ditto, 3489 " King George VI " (Mr. S. J. Wharton). Fowler Traction 11699 " Pride of Hanley Castle " (Mr. Melhuish). Foden Steam Tractor 11788 " Matilda " (Mr. F. Middleton). McLaren Traction 547 (Mr.!. Bury). Sentinel Steam Wagon 8448 (Mr. I. Woolett). Burrell Traction 3202 (Mr. J. Quicke). Foden Steam Wagon 13138 (Messrs. T. T. Boughton). Results Premier Prize for Elegance Winner: Mr. C. T. J. Nichols' Burrell " Lord Nelson Flat Race Winner: Mr. J. Quicke's Burrell. Musical Chairs Winners: Messrs. Boughtons' Foden Steam Wagon. Beer in Bucket Race Winners: Messrs. Boughtons. Obstacle Race Winner: Mr. S. J. Wharton's Burrell " King George VI ". Traction Engine Elegance Winner: Mr. N. Melhuish's Fowler. Light Haulage Class Winners: Messrs. Boughtons. Demonstration Winners: Messrs. Boughtons. Timber Tractor Hauling by Winch Winners: Two Showman's Burrells, total weight 28 tons.
FOWLER 15657 "KITCHENER " by John Crawley I have now been the owner of the above engine for just over 12 months, and the purpose of these notes is to tell something of the pleasure we have had with her during this time, journeying in all some 500 miles. Our first trip was from Conisborough in Yorkshire (from where I bought her) to Stagsden, a small village 5 miles from Bedford. This trip was completed in two and a half Sundays without trouble, and she was installed in the yard of " The Dog and Duck ". Three electric light bulbs were connected up to the house supply, enabling work to continue regardless of the weather. A start was made cleaning up her motion, together with many other steel parts, these
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jobs occupying us until early January. Twice during this time we had her in steam making light whilst the locals gathered around plying us with questions. Early in the New Year we steamed her into the works of J. & W. Gower, of Bedford, a firm that has specialised in Traction Engines right from the start, and who are extremely helpful. Here she was completely examined and a few minor adjustments carried ❑ut. She was then steamed back to Stagsden, where we started painting her roof with two coats of white paint, and this enormously improved her appearance. Her side boards were then gently rubbed down so that the lettering was still visible and the task of re-writing her set about. After this the two rear roof supports and cross brutes were fitted up with twisted brass rods, known, I believe, as Olivers. This job was completed just in time for us to give her a general clean before setting off for the Abingdon Rally, 1956. As far as I can make out, the biggest disadvantages with taking an engine around the country is the early hour at which it is necessary to rise. We always found that 3 a.m. was the most favourable time ; this enabled us to light up and be on the road by 5 a.m. Sunday, 2nd June, came along, and up we got and away we went. On this trip we were accompanied by a friend who was the proud owner of a rather doubtful jeep and even more doubtful ex-N.F.S. trailer pump, although it must be said neither piece of machinery gave any trouble and certainly helped progress. We steamed straight through to Arthur Napper's farm at Appleford, arriving at 3.45 p.m. When ready to leave Bedford on the following Friday at 5.30 p.m. I 'phoned through to Arthur to tell him we were departing and asked him to light up for us : we arrived in pouring rain. We soon got away and just managed to get through Abingdon before dark, but by the time we got to the rally field the light had gone and so had everybody else. We found that the gateway and the field beyond it was by this time very muddy. However, we managed to back the engine in and, with wheels spinning, make a fair distance before having to stop and winch our trailer in off the road. We were up by 5.30 a.m. and saw that it was still pouring with rain, so realised that it would now be Impossible to hold the rally in the field at any rate. Later in the morning we were very kindly winched out of the field by Gordon Howell and his Foden Tractor No. 14078. We thus returned to Arthur Napper's farm with " Kitchener ", arranging to collect her the following Sunday. This we did, leaving Appleford at 5 a.m. and steaming right through to Ron Dearner's farm at Caxton. Cambs, arriving at 5.30-98 miles in 12f hours. The following Saturday was the Elsworth Rally, and to get the engine cleaned up and ready meant two or three evening trips over to Caxton. Ron Deamer very kindly steamed her over to Elsworth on the Friday. The rally was a success, with fine weather, and over a dozen engines present. The next day we returned home, leaving the engine in Bedford, as she was required at the Old English Fayre on the following Saturday, 30th June. On the Friday evening we steamed her to the fairground and set her In position and wired her up to check the circuits, for on the morrow we were to light a 1.000-seater marquee for three performances, featuring Edmundo Ros and his Orchestra, the Secretary's tent, Treasurer's tent and light for a side stall. The fete was a success and the Fowler caused a lot of interest. The following Sunday we returned to Stagsden. Our next engagement was on Saturday, 14th July, and consisted of a Parade of Engines through Bedford High Street, finishing up at the Bedfordshire Agricultural Show, where the engine paraded round the Grand Ring before being put on show to the public. This day, like so many others this year, finished in rain, which did not help matters, as we wanted to be on the road early the next morning on our way to Rempstone for the rally the following week. Up at 3 a.m., light the fire, oil up : by this time it was becoming a habit and we were
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soon on our way. It rained all day and we did not make very good time. We returned to Rempstone the following Friday evening, the remainder of which was spent getting the previous Sunday's road stains off her paintwork. I will not go into details of the rally itself, except to say that everything, even the weather, was perfect. The following Saturday was Kegworth Carnival and John Beeby had promised to steam her over for me. We were most grateful for John's help, but I feel I should explain that, due to the distance away from my home, I was unable to get up during the week, and so most of the time was spent at Kegworth in cleaning brass, etc., as I think we were without doubt the only engine to arrive dirty. Again the weather played up, but not until 7 o'clock, by which time things were drawing to a close. We slept the night in one of the marquees, so that we were able to do the usual early morning flit ; in fact, we were on the road long before daylight, Stagsden being reached by 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Since then we have had her out only on two occasions for local joy-riding, and now she is In the course of having the paint stripped off from under the roof prior to re-painting and the fitting of more lights. When the job is done we shall again hold a Saturday afternoon steam up, this consisting of pleasure runs around Stagsden for the purpose of letting fellow enthusiasts try their hand. In the evening, of course, on goes the belt and we make light, and some I believe even drink light, but this I know, nobody can tell me a better way of spending a Saturday afternoon and evening.
NEWS FLASIIES IMPORTANT TO ENGINE OWNERS Insurance.—Special insurance facilities have been available for a number of years for Members of the Club by virtue of its affiliation to the old National Traction Engine and Tractor Association (now re-named as a result of amalgamation). At the moment the insurance administration is partly carried on through the Association's office. As from the 1st June next engine owners already insured in this way, and any others interested in arranging cover for third party and boiler risks, are asked to communicate DIRECT with the Brokers: Messrs. Choisy & Simson, Ltd., 92, Fenchurch Street, E.C.3. (For the attention of Mr. F. H. W. BEDFORD.) This change does not affect the cover already arranged for Club Members,
to
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Mr. J. F. Bulleid, of Estate Office, Cranborne, Wimborne, Dorset (Tel.: Fordingbridge 3238), is co-opting with local members in the organisation of a Traction Engine Rally on 7th September. Enquiries welcomed from engine owners and others as soon as possible. ZA
Zo
Mr. Middleton's Burrell " Winston Churchill " will be in steam at the Worcester Gymkhana on the 10th August.
Lapel admission labels are to be season tickets admitting members to any Club rally throughout the present season. Members are advised to see that they are retained in goad condition for further use if required. They are not transferable.
Mr. E. N. Shone appeared on television in May with his Burrell 8 h.p. scenic Showman engine.
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Several traction engines will be attending Church Stretton Carnival on 5th August.—D.W.S.
Mr. R. M. Woolley. road surfacing contractor and steam engine enthusiast, of Bucknell. Shropshire. has enriched his road locomotive possessions by the addition of two steam ploughs. After having stood idle and rusting for some years beside the dutch barn of a hill-top farm at Creeton in Lincolnshire, these type " A.A." 18 n.h.p. Fowler Compounds were bought by Mr. Woolley in 1955 and hauled home on low loaders. A certain amount of repairs were necessary, including re-tubing and the building up of the lower parts of the fire-box plates. in the spring of last year the renovated pair let out their steel ropes again on a job of dredging two small lakes.—H.13. rr
The Editor of " The Model Engineer " writes to inform us that this year's exhibition is to be held from the 21st-31st August at the New Horticultural Hall, Westminster. A new trophy is being given by Messrs. Aveling-Barford for the best traction engine, road roller or steam wagon at the Exhibition. Apart from this special interest, we have always found the Exhibition worth arrenrling.— Ed itor. JA
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A steam traction engine or tractor is reported to have passed through Tonbridge. Kent, in early April, towed by a lorry hauling from Northampton. News of the engine and destination would be welcomed by the Editor.—B.W.
The Parris family are organising a small rally at Moreton, Essex, on 27th July in aid of local church funds.
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Arrangements for the Woburn Park Rally are now well on the way and there will be a record number of engines present, 34 entries having been received so far. The gates will be opened at 11.30 a.m., the first event taking place at 2 p.m. Admission to the Rally, which also includes the Woburn Abbey and grounds, will be free to National Traction Engine Club members ; all other
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persons, 2/6 each. Free car park for all cars, coaches, motor cycles, etc. As we are hoping to see many friends from all over England, the Rally will go on regardless of weather. Further details upon request from the Rally Secretary, J. Crawley, 51. Putnoe Lane, Bedford.
Charlie Durrant had five minutes on the air in " Steam Radio " recently describing a rally.
THE VERSATILE TRACTION ENGINE
by E. J. Tyler We are accustomed to think of traction engines being used for such jobs as hauling threshing plant from farm to farm, and road locomotives being employed to move such things as heavy boilers from one place to another. Steam locomotives for road use have, however, been called upon to move many unusual loads and perform many unusual duties from time to time. When Sir Thomas Lipton was establishing his grocery business in Glasgow he decided to provide a novelty for Christmas in 1881 by exhibiting the largest cheese ever made. The cheese was made from the milk given by 800 cows in six days and 200 dairymaids were employed. It was made in America and shipped to Glasgow Docks, from whence it was hauled to Lipton's shop by a traction engine, cheering crowds lining the way. An extensive use of the traction engine by the War Office was first made during the South African War. Engines were ordered from various firms for the purpose of transporting supplies and guns from the base to the front. Miss Ada Reeve, the famous actress, relates the following story in her autobiography : " ❑uring the South African War Mr. Harry Templer, a South African mining engineer, was requested by the British Army to take charge of certain engineering shops at Bloemfontein to turn out traction engines and other material from scrap iron and kegs of nails '. As supplies grew shorter, gun carriages were in demand, and he constructed one ❑ut of a worn-out traction engine. After the war he was surprised to find it in a collection of war relics at Mafeking Town Hall." During the Kaiser's war, although the internal combustion engine had come more to the fore, traction engines were still employed on heavy gun haulage, etc., and a number of steam lorries were fitted up as mobile fumigating plants for soldiers' clothing. In the days before motor furniture vans it was not an easy matter to move from one house to another over a long distance with horses, so steam was called in for the long distance runs. A friend of mine who moved from Barnstaple to Bedford had his furniture taken in pantechnicons hauled by road engines, and the journey took two days. The showman was comparatively late in adopting steam-powered traniport, probably on account of the old Act requiring mechanically propelled vehicles on roads to be preceded by a man with a red flag, but after " Emancipation Day " in 1896 the showman's engine became a familiar feature of the countryside. By " Showman's engine " we usually understand an engine used to haul the paraphernalia of a fairground ❑r circus, but it may not be generally known that these engines also helped in the development of the cinema. Before cinemas became an established feature of towns, performances were given by travelling " bio-
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scopes " which were often hauled by showman's engines, which possessed the additional advantage of being able to supply electricity. On one occasion the proprietor of a travelling " bioscope " died and his engine was used to haul
his hearse. A certain boatbuilder's yard at Southend was situated some way from the sea, and whenever a boat was completed a traction engine was hired to haul it down to the shore. The engine then launched the boat by means of its wire rope and drum, a pulley being fixed near the water's edge to enable the engine
to pull the boat towards the water while the engine remained on the promenade. During the Edinburgh Exhibition of 1886 the locomotives exhibited by the Caledonian and Highland Railways were hauled to the exhibition site by traction engines. There is a case on record of a traction engine being used to print a newspaper. For some reason or other the power to drive the presses was not available, and so a traction engine was driven into the yard of the printing works and connected to the printing machinery, the belt passing through an open window. Mention must be made of the use of traction engines to pull down bombed buildings during the 1939-45 war. I remember seeing a showman's engine working at Farringdon Avenue, E.C., with the name " Demolicious " painted on the side. Finally, those readers who saw the film " The Titfield Thunderbolt " will be aware of the base uses to which a steam roller can be put.
AIIOUND THE COUNTIES EAST ANGLIA News has just reached me of the death of octogenarian Frank Burrell. of Fornham St. Martin, near Bury St. Edmunds. Frank's ancestors were the famous founders of the Thetford Works. He had had a very interesting life, and only reeently, in response to my appeal for aeciert records, sent rne a printed record of a trip made by his brother and himself in 1891, when they fetched a set of ploughing engines from Ross, Herefordshire, to Farnham St. Martin. Frank had also been Captain of Bury Fire Brigade when they used a steam fire engine, and was a keen ornithologist and motor engineer. In my last notes I mentioned Mr. William Parris' ancient (1896) Burrell. Members may like to know that it was used for threshing on the I1th and 13th May at Fyfield, Essex. I took along a photographer from " Sport and General " to cover the occasion. The East Anglian Club's Annual General Meeting attracted a large attendance, including Mr. P. Hemingway, who had travelled from Barnsley specially to be there! Membership numbers 280 now, and a beautifully designed Club Badge is now available for members. Mr. George Thurlow was re-elected President, with Messrs. Norman Dickson and Peter Ratcliffe as Secretary and Treasurer respectively. A balance in hand of £202 I6s. 7d. was revealed. The Essex Show this year is to be held in my former parish of Littlebury, near Saffron Walden, on 12th and 13th June. A space measuring 70 x 40 has been allocated for Traction Engines to stand in steam. This will be good publicity for the Saffron Walden Young Farmers' Club Rally to be held at I ladstock nearby on the following Saturday. It should also help to publicise our own Club.
14
The East Anglian Rally this year leaves Essex and enters Suffolk. In the ancient town of Sudbury we have secured the " People's Park " a few minutes from the town-centre. It is old pasture with a piped water supply, so 13th July P. A. W should be a red-letter day.
WEALD OF KENT Our local rally is being held at the Old Recreation Ground, Paddock Wood, on 17th August, at 2.30 (entry forms obtainable from Bob Whitehead, of 42, Hadlow Road, Tonbridge). It is hoped that some of the engines on view will not have been seen before. Mr. D. Eastwood, who is carrying on the road-making business of the late Chris. Lambert, has bought an Aveling & Porter Colonial type tractor from Penfold, " The Snodland Showman ", and is doing a thorough restoration. He has also had his Aveling & Porter roller (ex Hastings Borough Council) repainted in the original colours.
Fremlins, the Maidstone brewers, who have had two S4 Sentinels on hire from Neville Nicholls (of Maidstone) and Mr. Fred Pegden (of Elham), have laid them off again. Mr. Neville Nicholls is hoping to continue in business as a steam haulage contractor. His address is 9, Heathorn Street, Maidstone, and any members who can put work his way should contact him. R. W.
BEDFORDSHIRE Yet another engine has been acquired by a member of the Bedford Steam Engine Preservation Society. This is Burrell No. 4055, owned by Ron 5tanbrook, of Silsoe, Beds. This engine has recently been re-tubed at Messrs. Fensomes Works at Colmworth, and is now located at Markyate, where restoration is
under way. John Crawley's Fowler No. 15657 " Kitchener " has now taken up residence at Woburn Abbey, where it is on show at week-ends. His other engine, Burrell No. 3610 " William V ", is still looking rough, as it has not been possible for work to commence upon restoration. Both engines will, however, be at the
Woburn Rally in August. Jack Fensome, together with sons Albert and George, represented the Bedford Society with their Garrett Tractor No. 33991 " Patricia " at the recent Rally at Hannington, Northants. This event went off extremely well and was greatly enjoyed by all present. G. Plastow and brother Henry have recently acquired a Burrell Tractor from Devonshire, and, although having had little previous experience, will be steaming her home and hope to be present at Woburn in August.
Wallis & Stevens Advance Roller No. 7889, belonging to the Eddison Plant local depot, was recently seen in steam after a period of prolonged inactivity. This engine will also be present at Woburn in August. J. C.
FOR SALE Orders will be welcomed for the attractive Ties, Scarves, Vehicle and Lapel Badges of the Club at the following prices :— Club Ties
18/6 each, post free.
...
Club Scarves or Squares
VP
3/3 „
Lapel Badges ...
„
temporarily out of stock.
15/- for the first, and 10/- for each subsequent badge on each order, pc:,‘ free.
Car and Engines Badges
All remittances should be made payable to National Traction Engine Club.
FOWLER No. 22120, range 16 tons U.L.W. ; single-cylinc3r, governors, drum and wire rope intact ; fire-box good ; solid rubber tyres like new ; kept outdoors, but otherwise good order. Offer above £140. AVELING-BARFORD 1929 late type 64 ton Roller ; 3-roller type ; single cylinder. Offer above £1:41. Enquiries to James
hite & Sons, Scrap Merchants, St. Davids, Inverkeithing.
FOWLER Steam Engine ; new fire-box ; been used for steaming ; in good working order. Price £120. Enquiries to Lynwood Nurseries (Rayleigh), Ltd., White House, Arterial Road, Rayleigh, Essex. Tel.: Eastwood 55465.
BIG END for sale, single crank compound. Apply Mr. Beeby, Wymeswold, Rempstone, Nr. Loughborough, Leics.
WANTED WALLIS Simplicity Roller, in working order. Box No. 384. C/o Editor
CHIMNEY BASE CASTING for Burrell 5 h.p. showman's engine. Offers to pr. Middlemiss, Reedsmouth Road, Bellingham, Hexham, Northumberland.
Advertisement rates:
£5 per page: £2.10.0 per half page. Small advertisements:
2/- per line—no charge to members.
NTET Reprint 2002 Digitally printed from copy supplied by Parchment (Oxford) Ltd Printworks, Crescent Road, Cowley, Oxford England OX4 2PB email: print@parchmentUK corn www.PrintUK.com