Vol. 4 No. 1 January, 1960
THE JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB
SPECIAL SHOWMAN'S ENGINE NUMBER
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NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE (ELECTED 31sT OCTOBER, 1959) Chairman:
THE REVD. PHILIP WRIGHT, M.B.E., Hon.C.F. The Vicarage, Woodford Bridge, Essex. Vice-Chairman and Editor: J. CRAWLEY, EsQ., Field House, Turvey, Beds. Secretary:
E. A. FILLAmoaE, ESQ., 34 Northwick Park Road, Harrow, Middlesex. Membership Secretary (including Ties and Badges): J. G. FIUTCHENS, ESQ., A.31 Cafe, Tricketts Cross, Fcrndown, Dorset. Treasurer: E. W. EDNEY, ESQ., 33 Portsmouth Rnad, Horndean, Hants. Committee:
J. R. BEEBY, ESQ., Wymswold, Rempstone, nr. Loughborough, Leics. A. E. DEANS, ESQ., 1 London Road, Baldock, Herts. J. T. FENSOM, ESQ., Friar's Wash, Flamstead, St. Albans, Herts. A. C. NAPPER, EsQ., Bridge Farm, Appleford, Berks. C. T. PRIOR, EsQ., Braywick, Maidenhead, Berks. F. UPTON, ESQ., The Hut, Windsor Road, Maidenhead, Berks. S. J. WHARTON, ESQ., Minster Lovell, Oxford. A. FENSOM, ESQ., Friar's Wash, Flamstead, St. Albans, Herts. DR. E. ELMES, East Waylands, Ilayncs End, Middlesex. S. HILL, ESQ., 29 High Road, Broxbourne, Herts. L. C. W. PARRIS, ESQ., Paris Hall Place, Hastingwood, Harlow, Essex J. HIRONS, ESQ., Croft Close, Hailey Road, Witney, Oxon. Boiler Records Officer:
J. BJNSER, ESQ., 14 Broombill Road, Woodford Green, Essex. MEMBERSHIP OF THE NATIONAL TRACTION ENGINE CLUB IS OPEN TO ALL PERSONS WITH A GENUINE INTEREST IN THE PRESERVATION AND OPERATION OF AGRICULTURAL, ROAD AND PORTABLE STEAM ENGINES. OWNERSHIP OF AN ENGINE IS NOT ESSENTIAL. SUBSCRIPTION 15s. PER ANNUM, WHICH INCLUDES THE CLUB JOURNAL STEAMING AS PUBLISHED, AND FREE ADMITTANCE TO RALLIES ORGANISED BY THE N.T.E.C.
EVENTS FOR 1960 MAY 7TH ANDOVER RALLY. MAY 14TH TAUNTON RALLY. MAY 21ST WINCHESTER RALLY. MAY 21ST ICKLETON (CAMBS.) RALLY. MAY 28TH CAMERTON (SOMERSET) RALLY. JUNE 6m WESTON PARK RALLY. JUNE 11TH N.T.E.C. APPLEFORD RALLY. JUNE 18TH WIMBISH RALLY. SKEGNESS RALLY (and 19TH). COVER PICTURE:
JUNE 25TH MORETON RALLY. WEYMOUTH RALLY. NORTHLEACH (GLOS.) RALLY. JULY 9m COLCHESTER RALLY. JULY 16TH & 17TH REMPSTONE RALLY. JULY 16TH CAMBOURNE (CORNWALL) RALLY. JULY 23RD GREAT STUKELY (HUNTS.) RALLY. AUGUST 1ST WOBURN PARK RALLY. AUGUST 20TH WEALD OF KENT RALLY.
Fowler No. 15657 "Kilchener".
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EDITORIAL Tws issue of Steaming is devoted in the main to the Showman's Road Locomotive. As your Editor I am fully aware that this will not please a large section of our members, but I intend to feature each aspect of Steam, i.e., Ploughing and Agricultural Engines, Portables, Wagons and Steam Rollers in turn. The expense of both time and money involved in such an issue limits its appearance to once yearly and what better time of the year than January when Engine activities are at their lowest ebb. Whilst on the subject of appearances it would perhaps be as well to enlighten certain of our more enthusiastic members that Steaming is due out quarterly, i.e., during the months of January, April, July and October, the operative word being "during", as I find that many extremely curt letters, sonic almost to the point of being very rude, arrive about the 3rd or 4th of each month of publication saying "Where is my Steaming ! x ! ! ?" Now whilst I can view this matter as a back-handed compliment that members should think highly enough of the journal to write such letters, I would point out that the Company which employs me and with which I share my spare time! does occasionally take a rather dim view of all this
with the result that a set date of publication is wellnigh impossible. Having got that little lot off my chest I would now like to thank my regular reporters throughout the country who forward the Club news for each issue. Thanks are also due to all those members who drop me the odd letter giving reports of Engines both standing and at work, finally those friends of every Editor, the enthusiast who contributes complete articles. Just stop for one moment and say to yourself, "Do I look forward to reading Steaming?" If the answer is "Couldn't care less, usually flick through it", then quite frankly you are not an Engine enthusiast because whatever the standard, an Engine man will find it of interest and it is a sobering thought that unless members make an effort to contribute articles eventually a decline will set in with the result that many more members will take the first mentioned approach and this will then herald the death of the journal which is usually brought about by a reversal of its evolution by returning to a duplicated news sheet, published if and when there is something to put in it. So please make a belated New Year resolution. I look forward to hearing from you. EDITOR.
FROM THE CHAIRMAN (Philip Wright's Column) FIRST of all, a sincere thank you to
those who made the arrangements for the Dinner which followed our A.G.M. I thought it a happy idea to combine the two events and we have since been inundated by requests to make this an annual event. I want also to record in print my appreciation of the hard work put in throughout the year by our officers and committee who travel long distances to be present at the meetings. I hope our new Secretary will have 100 per cent. support and I welcome new committee members. Writing from the Steamship City of London, then in Shadwell Old Basin London Docks, Mr. Angus Mackay (member 66) tells me he has a Maclaren five ton tractor (1662) on solid rubbers in Scotland (where he lives when ashore) and that he has put her
into good condition. He also owns a Fowler Traction Engine (15313) and an Aveling twelve ton Roller (14121). Mr. Mackay is Chief Engineer on the City of London which does trade trips between London and Brussels. By virtue of his job he cannot get to Rallies, etc., but I can sec he is a jolly keen member and we wish him good steaming on land and on sea! *
*
Our junior member. Christopher Edmonds, of Owlswick, writes telling me of meeting Mr. I. Seward, of Petersfield, recently. The latter has a Museum in miniature as well as a Marshall 1886 nine ton engine (1424). A Fowler Showman's of 1890 and a Fowler traction engine of the same date; he also owns "Little Jim", a Savage stationary engine. Christopher wondered whether a relay trip by
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traction engine from Land's End to John o' Groats was a possibility . . . any takers? Readers will remember my former mention of a Fowler Stump Pulling Engine standing derelict in the yard of W. & C. French, at Buckhurst Hill, near to me. Following an enquiry from Cornwall, Messrs. French decided she ought to remain in East Anglia and so I have acquired her myself. On 30th November she was towed behind Mr. Pryor's (Harlow) Low-Loader unit to Hastingwood where Mr. Laurence Parris has kindly offered storage space. Whilst standing she has been robbed of her brasses and, of course, she is rusted badly and there are several very doubtful tubes, nevertheless she offers a challenge. although not quite a Rally engine. Her width makes her difficult to get about, she goes just over ten foot six inches wide because of her exceedingly wide wheels. She weighs 18 tons, is rated 10 h.p. (estimated h.p.-100!) Wheels measure 7 ft. x 26 in. Her towing rope is 100 yards long, and this weighs half a ton with a breaking-strain of 80 tons. Her number is 17107 and her registration number is unknown! Her
type was built mainly for overseas work and is illustrated on page 42 of Fowler's T.E. Catalogue, number 62, part two, of 1920 date. Her former driver is a keen member of our Club . . . Mr. R. Bateman, who at seventy, still does engineering work at West Drayton, Middlesex. He actually used her in my parish at Woodford Bridge during the war years for stump-pulling alongside the River Roding. He writes recently, "She would 'sell you a pup' with the watergauge, which took the steam from a common distributor feeding water lift and injector. When you put the injector on, this took the pressure off the top of the gauge and the ball in the bottom fitting moved into the stop position showing false water! If I had had my way I would have drilled the top of the boiler and taken steam direct but I was only the driver and wasn't allowed to know. I got over the trouble by driving her full up so that the injector blew itself off when steam got too wet. I did this for hundreds of miles on the road and never had trouble." So Philip has been warned.
ANNUAL DINNER THIS year the Committee decided to revive the Annual Dinner, which was arranged to follow the Annual General Meeting. At the close of this a suitable interval was allowed which gave ample time for members and their friends to foregather. At 7.30 p.m. one hundred and nine members with their ladies and guests sat down to a most excellent dinner. We were honoured by the presence of a number of guests from kindred Societies, amongst them being Mr. R. G. Pratt with Mrs. Pratt and Mr. Love of the Road Locomotive Society and Mr. H. J. Barker of the British Fairground Society. The latter provided a fine display of mounted photographs for those present to inspect. At the end of the dinner a presentation was made to the retiring Secretary, Mr. Bonnett, of a Parker pen and pencil set in recognition of his services to the Club. During the course of the evening a film show was given depicting some of the exploits of Mr. Jack Wharton with his well-known engine " King
George VI " on the Queen's Highway. We thank member Mr. J. Barnden for what proved to be a most interesting and well-produced diversion. A vote of thanks was accorded to thp nrgankerQ of what prnverl to he
a most successful event in the history of the Club. Prominent amongst them was that redoubtable figure of organisation whether it be engine ring or social event, Mr. Alan Martin. We were fortunate, however, in securing a booking at these premises in Bucklersbury House, Walbrook, London of Mecca Ltd., and being able to hold both the A.G.M. and the Dinner under the same roof although in different rooms. Much of the credit for the smooth running of both events was due to their efficient organisation under their resident manager Mr. R. B. Forster. Members who missed this most successful and enjoyable evening will be glad to know that it has been decided to hold another Dinner in 1960 at the same venue. Further details will be given in due course.
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The author driving the late John Honeywood's 1909 Burrell 3112
TRACTION ENGINES by PHILIP WRIGHT The first comprehensive historical account of the Farm Engine, the Road Engine, the Steam Roller and the Steam Wagon by the Chairman of the National Traction Engine Club. With colour frontispiece, 24 photographs and 23 drawings 21s. net ADAM & CHARLES BLACK, 4 SOHO SQUARE, LONDON, W.1
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NEW BOOKS REVIEWED TRACTION ENGINES Philip Wright
printing strike put back the intended date of publication since when the
21s. A. & C. Black Ltd. Medium 8vo. 104 pp. With colour jacket and frontispiece, 24 black-andwhite plates and numerous line illustrations. IN this first comprehensive account of the Farm Engine, the Road Engine, the Steam Roller and the Steam Wagon, the Chairman of the National Traction Engine Club traces the history of the traction engine via the horse-drawn "Portables" of the midnineteenth century to the first selfmoving models for farm and road work. John Fowler's successful early attempts to plough by steam power are
printers have realised that it is going to be an extremely difficult book to produce due to the large number of illustrations and the process used for reproduction. The publishers regret any inconvenience that has been caused and
described, together with the practical encouragement given by successive Royal Shows and the Great Exhibition. Graphic first-hand accounts illustrate the bitter opposition which sought to drive traction engines off the road altogether, largely because of the damage they inflicted on the highways. Ironically, the same engines in the form of steam rollers became the greatest benefactors of the public highways. Subsequently transition led to the Sentinel Steam Wagon which in its final form incorporated pneumatic tyres and electric lighting. Finally, Mr. Wright shows how the gradual decline of the traction engine in the present century has been arrested by the formation of clubs and the organisation
WRITTEN in an easy, readable style, it tells an engrossing story, the interest of which grows steadily from start to finish. Backed up as it is by no fewer than 181 illustrations, many of them rare, a few of them probably unique, the book is one that, picked up, it is extremely difficult to put down again.
of "rallies". The book is illustrated by many unique photographs and by the author's own drawings. Without doubt this book represents excellent value and will claim its place on the bookshelf of the enthusiast.
whirl
THE ENGLISH TRACTION ENGINE Ronald Clarke
Messrs. Goose & Son. book has been considerably delayed for two reasons, firstly the THIS
have every hope that it will be available by the end of February. A CENTURY OF TRACTION ENGINES
By W. J. Hughes Percival Marshall & Company. 30s. Royal 8vo. Cloth. 272 pages. 181 photographs.
The period covered is roughly 18501950. From the Engineering standpoint it is interesting to see how the Traction Engine, in its different forms, developed until, ultimately, it was among the finest products of the engineering profession. Production of this volume must have been a difficult problem, especially with regard to some of the illustrations, many of nhvirmcly nlri
The printing is good and the standard of the reproduction is excellent. Summed up, it represents excellent value and is a "must" for all steam
enthusiasts. The author is to be congratulated on producing such a valuable addition to the very limited range of books available dealing with Traction Engines and not least the publishers for producing such a comprehensive volume at a reasonable price.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Thanks are due to the following for permission to .reproduce photographs in this issue:— Ransome, Simms & Jefferies Ltd. Wallis & Steevens Ltd. P. Henginbotham. John Fowler & Co. (Leeds) Ltd. The Autoca•. Jack Wilkinson. Garretts Ltd. Foden Ltd.
C. Durrant. A. E. Dowlman.
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A CENTURY OF TRACTION ENGINES BY
W. J. HUGHES Member of the Newcomen Society and of the Road Locomotive Society and the National Traction Engine Club
This tells the vital story of what is probably the most fascinating of all steam engines--the traction engine—and the author has included a unique collection of drawings. and photographs to delight the enthusiast. From the early period of experiment, the author pursues an intriguing course through those years of the 19th and early 20th centuries when steam reigned " Lord Paramount alone ". The first of the clan was merely adapted from a portable engine, with a pitch chain to drive one wheel, but its culmination was the proud road locomotive which unaided could move a load of 120 tons. The Boydell system, Bray's " feathering wheels," Lieut. Crompton's epic journey by Thomson road steamer, Fowler, Aveling, Burrell and other makers, special engines for export, showmen's engines, armoured engines, " convertibles," caterpillartracked engines, steam in the defence of Malta—the story of these and many more are between the covers of this book. Royal 8vo. 272 pages. 181 photographs, drawings and reproductions of old prints
30s. Postage ls.
PERCIVAL MARSHALL & CO. LTD 19-20 NOEL STREET, LONDON, W.1.
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THE SHOWMAN'S STEAM TRACTION ENGINE BY CYCLIST purposes. The typical showman's IN The Commercial Motor dated road locomotive is of the 8 n.h.p., 6th December, 1921, under the headdouble-crank compound engine type, ing " Road Haulage and Rural its indicated h.p. on the road being Entertainment," was an illustrated 62-78. The type of boiler which is news item on how the modern showemployed has a working pressure of man relied upon the road locomotive 180 lb. per sq. in., and combines for the haulage of his entertainment paraphernalia. Two typical Fowler strength with lightness of construction ; it carries the engine shafts and road locomotives used by showmen (one with Biddall's Famous Show gearing. The cylinder valves and gear are so proportioned that at the and the other belonging to W. Ilaggar working pressure the most economical of London) were pictured, and also results are obtained, and the steam a photograph of John Murphy's released through the exhaust into the Fowler " Renown " lifting one of the chimney, which is telescopic, at the motor cars from the truck on to the lowest pressure which will ensure the undulating track of the Scenic Railnecessary draught for proper comway with the aid of the car-lifting bustion, according to the nature of crane attachment. Here is an extract the work which is being undertaken. from this well-written contribution: A very useful fitting is a self-closing " Messrs. John Fowler & Co. (Leeds) Ltd., have perhaps done more starting valve, which is worked from than any other road locomotive the footplate, and facilitates the easy manufacturers to popularize mechan- starting of the engine when the highpressure crank is on dead centre. ical haulage amongst showmen, and it During the last five or six years many is interesting to record that as long improvements have been made in the as 25 years ago the company produced equipment of this type for the drive transmission of Fowler springmounted road locomotives by the inuse of travelling showmen for hauling their apparatus about the country troduction of a novel transmission working in a dustproof oilbath, which and for driving the many types of reduces friction to a minimum and roundabouts and merry-go-rounds which are in use. Most of the road eliminates wear and tear. The sliding locomotives now in use possess surfaces are so large that the oil is not expelled by the driving pressure ; dynamo equipment mounted on a platform over the smokebox, and the result is perfectly free movement, and the neutralization of the possidriven direct from the flywheel of the uiii iv of 611y ill t.aa.l...1 engine, which can be used fur driving shaft and hind axle. Maxideveloping electricity for lighting and display purposes. The modern road mum driving surfaces are obtained by the use of parallel projections and locomotive is a well-constructed mechanical unit, which is not sur- corresponding grooves, those on one face of the transmission plate being prising in view of the fact that, apart set at right-angles to those on the from its important advantages of steady and silent running on a mini- other. In this way effective transmission is secured, free vertical movemum consumption of fuel and water, ment of the engine is allowed, and combined with the highest power and the lowest weight many of the the whole train of driving gear is features which are incorporated in its always in correct mesh. Furthermore. the centres of the driving shafts construction have been made as a and hind axle are truly maintained, result of suggestions made by the and no undue stresses are thrown on showmen themselves who, with a the respective shafts or bearings. The knowledge of the circumstances which whole of the transmission gear is enthey have to face, are in a position to know requirements. Powerful en- cased in a dustproof oilbath. Three road speeds are provided, which are gines are necessary for the heavier operated by a patent clutch gear, forms of roundabouts, swings and which prevents two speeds being enscenic railways, and the following is gaged or partly engaged at the same a brief description of the principal time. Powerful steering gear and a features of machines used for such
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Ransome, Sims & Jefteries No. 20217 "Surprise", built for John Cottrell.
Wallis & Steevens 8 n.h.p. No. 2643 "Royal John", built in 1903 for Henry Jennings.
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screw friction brake, acting on both hind wheels, which is worked from the footplate, are supplied, whilst a flywheel rim brake can also be fitted. Handiness and expedition in " setting up" or " pulling down " heavy roundabout equipment is of considerable importance, and it is interesting to record that Messrs. Fowler were the pioneers of traction engines fitted with light-whip cranes in which the hoisting and lowering are affected by bollard or barrel driven by the engine and controlled by one man. Although specifically introduced for traction engines, the equipment has been fully developed, and the principle is now apnlicd to road locomotives. A hollow crane-post is fixed at the back of the tender, to which a light movable jib boom is coupled as and when required. The attachment is of the lightest character, its strength being proportionate for weights up to 30 cwt. By the use of a crane of this type, gondolas and pleasure cars fitted on roundabouts, swings, and the like, can be easily and quickly lifted and swung on or off the road wagon, or to and from the switchback or circular track or
the machine. The winding forward drum, with which all the Fowler road locomotives are equipped, is an invaluable adjunct for showmen's engines, for by its use winding, warping or hoisting un whip-crane or derrick can be easily and readily accomplished. Showmen, generally, are great believers in the attraction of colours, and their road engines and
their equipment are usually highly ornamental and elaborately painted, and less attention is given to the blending of delicate shades than to the general effect created by the liberal use of blatant colours,- such as red, yellow and green. Brass fittings are also used to a great extent, and such details as brake spindle, steering rod, awning supports, etc., are all covered with twisted brass casings, which certainly improve their appearance." The distinction for having built the largest number of showman's engines goes to Charles Burrell & Sons Ltd., and the next biggest builder was John Fowler & Co. (Leeds) Ltd. William Foster & Co. Ltd. and Fodens Ltd. also built quite a number of engines
for showmen. Other builders whose nroducts were used by showmen include such firms as Richard Garrett & Sons Ltd., Ransomes, Simms and
Jeffries, J. & H. McLaren Ltd., Wallis & Steevens, Clayton & Shuttleworth, and many others. My own particular favourite of the many 1 have seen was Fowler No. 10318 " Sunny Boy No. 2" in the
service of W. H. Marshall & Sons, Roundabout Proprietors, Bradford. I first saw it when I was a boy in the years before the First World War. It then used to take six of the switchback loads, and at that time all ran on metal-tyred wheels. When a settpaved gradient was encountered it was necessary to throw sacks., etc. under the engine's driving wheels in order to obtain adhesion. '1he loads were usually divided when a gradient
was encountered, for there was no traffic congestion in those days. During the years of the First World War "Sunny Boy No. 2," like other traction engines serving in Showland, was given a registration number. This was S/BFD ;45 / 2. The prefix "S" signified steam, and BFD was the abbreviation for Bradford. I imagine
the figure 45 was to show that Marshall's were 45th on the list of steam owners on the Bradford register, and the suffix " 2 " would denote that " Sunny Boy No. 2 " was Marshall's second engine, for the firm at that time also owned Fowler No. 8725 " General Buller " and Fowler No. 11127 "Hero," all of them being
three speed showman's road locomotives. In due course " Sunny Boy No. 2 " was requisitioned for timber hauling—in Wales! Incidentally, Fowler No. 10318 was the first 1 saw to be equipped with a car-lifting crane. In the march of time "Sunny Boy No. 2 " was fitted with bolted-on solid rubber tyres . This necessitated cutting away the fore tanks at the back end in order to enable spuds to be fitted to the driving wheels when the state of the ground warranted them. This work was carried nut at Hepworth's boiler yard, Castleford. The first journey undertaken by the engine after being " rubbered " was from Bradford to Hull in, I believe, October, 1925. Driver was Frank Orriss, and the load was two trucks containing Flying Chairs and a small fourwheel living van. In former years the journey from Bradford to Tadcaster (25 miles) was sufficient for the first day. But Frank Orriss succeeded in reaching Beverley (60 miles) before nightfall on the first day. Evidently, after having seen that all was well for
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Fowler 8 n.h.p. No. 10318 "Sunny Boy No. 2", built in 1905 for W. H. Marshall.
Burrell 6 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 3542 "Sunny South", built in 1914 for J. Matthews.
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the first 35 miles or so, Driver Orriss opened " Sunny Boy No. 2 " out a bit soon after leaving York, for he actually overtook showman R. Dailey D.C.M.'s Foden steam wagon and living van on the road to Market Weighton—and the expression on the Foden driver's face was one of amazement! As a point of interest Walter Marshall once left Wibsey Fair (Bradford) one October morning with the three speed Burrell " Prince of Wales " and took two loads to Hull Fair, and then returned light to Wibsey the same day. About 140 miles in a day! When the fast-moving novelty rides made their appearance the Steam Switchback was replaced by a Dodgem machine. " Sunny Boy No. 2 " used to drive for the arc lamps with the Switchback, but in addition to creating light for the Dodgem it had also to drive the cars and organ. So it was fitted with Pickering governors. There were five loads with the Dodgems, plus a Brayshawbuilt living van, so it was necessary to make " double journeys " as the loads were restricted to a total of three. I accompanied " Sunny Boy No. 2 " on numerous journeys during the " thirties," during which time its driver was Arthur McLaurie, and I secured a few photographs of those " happy days ". There was a wonderfully efficient staff, too. One blast on the whistle at the top of a hill, and the man in charge of each of the three loads immediately screwed the brakes on. And then a couple of blasts on the whistle when the foot of the gradient was reached saw the brakes released just as quickly. The ascent of the mile-long Hollins Hill was a sight I never missed, and another smart piece of work was to watch the engine and its three loads negotiate the narrow and hilly streets of Halifax town . The Marshall firm disposed of " Sunny Boy No. 2 " to the heavy haulage firm of Edward Box, Liverpool, in the early years of the Second World War. Its dynamo bracket was cut off with the acetylene flame, and the twisted brasswork was also removed. The cab was cut down to three-quarter length, and the engine was repainted in Box's colours— black, with red road wheels. I saw the engine on heavy-haulage duties with Box's, and was pleased to see a former showman's driver (Fred Brittain) in charge. Once when we
stopped for a chat near Kendal I was told the engine had tackled 100 ton loads, but low gear on steep gradients often caused the bolts holding on the rubber tyres to break. The spud pan had been taken off, and also the engraved " Sunny Boy No. 2 " nameplate. Road index is WR6790, and the engine has 7 ft. dia. driving wheels with an 18 in. face. Other similar engines built for showmen were No. 10323 (John Studt's " Admiral Togo " which in later years became White Bros'. " Welsh Horse ") ; No. 10324 (The Northern Cinematograph Co.'s " Enterprise" which was sold to Thos. W. Ward Ltd. of Sheffield for scrapping by Harniess's in later years) ; No. 10328 (W. Wilson's " Dawn of the Century " which in later years became Henry Irvin's " One of the Best ") ; and No. 10329 (G. Marshall's " Envoy " which later went into the hands of Johnson's, and then Taylor's). Engine " Envoy " differed from the others by being fitted with a flywheel of 5 ft. in diameter, and the late Mr. Marshall told me he had this specially fitted as the (then) fast-revving Dickenson dynamos were in general use. In the boiler yard which used to Walter Denton's, which is situated on the Manchester Road at Hyde (Cheshire), are two three-speed road locomotives. One of them is Fowler No. 14115. The other is Fowler No. 10318 with the " Sunny Boy No. 2 " nameplate again fitted to the nearside motion cover. In 1940 the business of Walter Denton was bought by Frank Morgan & Co., of Salc, Cheshire. Frank Morgan had been manager with the heavy-haulage firm of Norman E. Box & Co. Ltd., of Ardwick, Manchester, but he passed away a few years ago. I believe his widow can be traced through a garage at Sale. Several engines formerly owned by showmen had their cabs, dynamos, etc. removed on leaving the amusement world. Two of them which have since been restored to their former glory are Burrell's "The Rover and "The Busy Bee". If, after reading this, some member of The National Traction Engine Club is able to acquire " Sunny Boy No. 2 " and restore this 1905-built road locomotive, with dynamo and bracket, full-length cab, twisted brass casings, etc. I will feel to have done something in the way of helping to preserve " a thing of beauty which is a joy for ever ".
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An early Single Cylinder Clayton & Shuttleworth Showman's Engine reproduced from the maker's catalogue.
Wallis & Steevens No. 7125 " King of the Road", built in 1909 for James Pettigrove, shown here at the works with the men who built her.
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THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING THE Meeting opened at 4.30 p.m. under the chairmanship of Mr. John Crawley, until the arrival of Revd. Philip Wright, who was delayed through attending the unveiling of the Winston Churchill Memorial at Woodford, Essex. Mr. Crawley welcomed all present to the meeting, especially those who had travelled long distances to be present. Here are extracts from the various reports. The Chairman opened his remarks by referring to the great loss this movement had suffered during the course of the year in the death of Mr. Fred Barker. On a different note he was pleased to see amongst us again after a very serious illness Mr. H. J. Gilbert. Then followed a general review of the Club's activities throughout the past year. The Secretary thanked all Officers and Committee for their support and co-operation throughout the year. The Treasurer reported a continued satisfactory financial position for the Club with a credit balance of just over £1,500. Recently a donation of £100 had been given to the Caneet Research Fund. He sounded a note of caution however, and recommended that this balance be
conserved as, if and when a rainy day came, the Club would need this strong background. The Membership Secretary opened his remarks by paying tribute to his wife who had given him much assistance in the work. The total membership to date was 856, of which only 382 had paid their subscriptions for the year ended 31st August, 1959. The large number unpaid was disappointing, and he appealed to all present to assist by reminding others as much as possible. The Officers and Committee shown on page 2 of this issue were elected to serve the Club for the ensuing year. Following the election there was a period during which members asked questions regarding, and made suggestions for the running of, the Club. These will be considered by the Committee in due course. The meeting closed with two votes of thanks. Firstly from the members to the Chairman and Vice-Chairman for their able handling of the meeting, and secondly from the Chairman to thank all retiring Officers and Committee members for their loyal and valued services in the past.
1904 Foster Showman's Engine reproduced from maker's catalogue.
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Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 2072 "The Masterpiece", built in 1898 and recently purchased for preservation by J. G. Hutchens of Ferndown.
Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 3694 "Lord Fisher ", built in 1915 for W. Beach.
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CLUBS NEWS EAST ANGLIA Club activities have been very much alive since the rallying season concl uded. The Annual Dinner was held at Thetford, and 104 members and guests enjoyed an evening which, to quote many opinions, was "the best one so far". Films were shown of the Rallies at Kilverstone and Stisted, and these were followed by a show of slides by Mr. John Crawley of Bedford. The interests of the East Anglian Club are not confined to traction engines only, and some of our members have been blazing the trail towards running the old pumping engine at Stretham Fen, under steam of course! This fine example of the early condensing beam engine was erected in 1831 by the Butterley Company, and for no less than 111 years she purposefully lifted water from the Cambridgeshire fen. Her generous dimensions enabled her modest working pressure of ten pounds to the square inch to be converted to the considerable power necessary to satisfactorily perform her task. More details of this venture, complete with photos and other relevant information, will appear in the East Anglian Club magazine Steam Preservation. The Club has decided to sponsor several Rallies in 1960, dates of which are listed under the Events for 1960. Dates not fixed, but during September or early October, there will be two other provisional events at Great DUUUOW, Cheittisfuld, and worth, nr. Bishop's Stortford, Herts. The Annual General Meeting will be held on 12th March, 1960, at a venue not yet decided. Official business will be followed by a social chinwag, and a small spread of edibles. A change amongst the Club's hierarchy has resulted in the honorary task of Membership Secretary being accepted by Mr. A. W. Gregson, whose new address is Little Hyde Farm, Duton Hill, nr. Dunmow, Essex. Phone, Great Easton 371. Mr. Gregson is, incidentally, the new owner of the Foster single cylinder traction previously belonging to Mr. J. Bennie, of Hannington, Northants. This engine is at present undergoing extensive repair at Mr. J. P. Shuttlewood's yard at Great Leighs. Stories have been circulating around Essex concerning a traction engine of
"enormous width" which, it is said, has been scaring travellers on the main All road in the Harlow area. Investigation by the Club's own psychic squad (poor old Hon. Sec., he gets it all), revealed that this airy monster was rarely seen, but on the night of the 30th November some tracks were sighted, and these covered a width of no less than eleven feet, with individual wheel widths of about twenty-four inches. Now on consulting the books on black magic, this could only have been a reincarnation of the "Abominable Steam-man", driven and controlled by some fearful agent of the Devil himself, clad in scales and breathing sulphurous fumes. A striking and living example of the legendry in which East Anglia is so enriched. Our exotic findings were shortly to be most rudely disproved by a factual materialist who witnessed this diabolical hallucination in the stark nakedness of the December sun, and who analysed it to be no more than the Fowler stump-pulling engine previously owned by Messrs. W. & C. French, Ltd., Buckhurst Hill, and now apparently belonging to one of Satan's strongest adversaries, none other than our good friend, Major the Rev. Philip Wright. It is not so surprising that the populace were misled by this engine, as she is a very special example, and attains her remarkable width by virtue of a very long hind axle, presumably to give her purchase when winching in auy
LILICL•LLUll.
1 TT 017 La. 11
BEDFORDSHIRE This month there is very little to report. Our member Tom Hall of Hatfield has recently acquired a Foden Tractor, No. 13485, from Philip Ogden of Hutton Sessay, Thirsk. John Boutwood of Clophill recently acquired a Garrett Tractor from Mr. Ron Wells of Little Harrowden, Engine No. 33219. Wallis & Steevens Advance Type Roller, No. 7784, Registration No. XP2338, is at work on the widening of the road from Bedford to Ampthill, which is just south of the town. Our monthly meetings continue to be well patronised, and anyone in the vicinity is sure of a warm welcome at " The King's Arms," St. Mary's Street, Bedford, on the first Monday of each J.C. month.
STEAMING
Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 3887 "Prince of Wales", built in 1922 for Henry Jennings.
Foden 8 n.h.p. No. 514 "King Edward", built in 1902 for Isaac Richards.
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STEAMING
Foster 10 n.h.p. No. 14632 "Success ", built in 1934 for Hibble & Mellor, and now owned in preservation by A. E. Dowlrnan.
Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 2804 "White Rose of York", built in 1906 for Alfred Payne.
STEAMING SHROPSHIRE The purchase of the Burrell S.C.C. Road Locomotive No. 2646 presented
a bit of a problem as the place from which she was bought was situated in some rather hilly country near Hayon-Wye about 43 miles from Burley. The problem arose as the engine
could not be steamed home, and the distance was a little too far for the Ruston traction engine to be of ser-
vice. Mr. Bishop came to the rescue, and the decision was made to tow the Burrel home with his Foden tractor " Cymru am byth ". Mr. Salmon of Llandindrod Wells also offered the assistance of his Clayton tractor, and so early on a September Saturday morning these two engines were at the village of Llowes ready to commence the long haul back ; mention must be made of the fact that the Foden had started from Burley on that same morning whilst Mr. Salmon had made the outward trip from Bucknell some days earlier. With the Foden leading the Clayton on the rear the
journey commenced with the descent of a very steep hill from the yard belonging to Mr. Price from whom the Burrell had been purchased. On reaching the bottom of this hill the Clayton was uncoupled and the Foden carried on unaided, at least it carried on for about a hundred yards when it was stopped by the apparent agitation of the men on the footplate of the Burrell. The speed had been a little fast and the cab roof, rotten with age, had started to fall around the heads of the crew The loose timber and bite of stool work were removed and good progress was made to Kingsland where the cortege arrived in the dark (back to normal!). They were stabled here until the next morning, when another early start was made, and this day saw the end
of the trip which was completed with very little trouble and the Burrell is now undergoing " treatment " at Burley. The restoration of this engine will be a long job, and she will not be ready for any rallies, etc. this year as some optimist has stated in some steam notes elsewhere. There is to be another new arrival in the area shortly, as Mr..Les Bishop has acquired the Fowler Showman's Engine " Supremacy " from Mr. Bates of Consett, Co. Durham. A further steam roller, art Aveling, has been added to the fleet owned by
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Messrs. Bishop, and they hope to have it at work shortly ; this engine is ex Cheshire County Council. A Ransome Portable, in very fine
order, was seen passing along the A.49 near Church Stretton on a lowloader. This was bound for the docks en route for Rangoon. Ruston No. 52266 and Garrett Tractor " Countess " have recently been at work together on a treefelling operation which was successfully accomplished. Most of the engines in this area are now being laid up for the winter months, but there always seems many jobs to do and their owners arc seldom idle. D. W. SMITH. WEALD OF KENT The winter being now upon us. activity has correspondingly decreased. During this quarter no engines are known to have changed hands except
that two rollers, formerly the properly of Godden of Horsham are now
in the hands of C. Harbor & Sons, Scrap Metal Merchants, Redhill, Surrey. They are Wallis & Steevens No. 7247, and Aveling & Porter No. 10028. At the moment they are being
preserved in the hope that someone will purchase them. The club has decided on a change of venue for the 1960 rally which is to be held on a large flat field formerly known as Penshurst Aerodrome at Leigh near Tonbridge. This is some fifteen or sixteen miles west of the 1959 rally field at Paddock Wood and it is hoped that it will attract engines that have been put off Paddock Wood by !hr. rl ci nrP It it within len
minutes' walk of Penshurst station on
the Tonbridge to Redhill line and is
thus easily accessible by train. The R.A.W. date fixed is 20th August.
WEST OF ENGLAND At the West of England Steam Engine Society's A.G.M. it was decided to hold the 1960 Rally on July 16th. As the field used in 1959 will not be
available, a site is being sought a few miles east of Redruth which will shorten the journey for engine owners
and spectators coming from midCornwall and farther east. Our rally
has become widely known as the
"Camborne Rally " and this name will probably stick in spite of the change of location. Chris Gittins ("Walter Gabriel" of the B.B.C. "Archers" cast), who was taken seriously ill at Camborne before the
20
STEAMING
MacLaren No. 1020 "Lucky Durham", built in 1908 for H. Testo.
Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 4092 "Simplicity ", built in 1930 for A. Deakin & Sons. This was the last Burrell Showman's Engine to be produced and was built by Messrs. Garrett's of Leiston.
STEAMING 1959 rally, has agreed to perform the opening in 1960. He is taking on very
few engagements for 1960 but has agreed to appear at our rally as so many were disappointed at not seeing him last year. Since the last issue of Steaming several engine movements have taken place in the West owing to changes
of ownership. Mr. J. Warren sold Burrell 3455 (TA615), "Semper Fidelis", to Messrs. Collinson & Clark and steamed her to Hayle in October. A few weeks later the engine was sold to Mr. L. B. Hosking, who steamed her to St.
Buryan, not far from Land's End. Now she has been bought by someone near Exeter who intends to fully restore her. Another engine which has left Hayle is Garrett Tractor 33353 (BJ4236), "Prince". This is now in Camborne, the property of Mr. and Miss Hodges. They intend to convert "Prince" into a Showman's Tractor and have acquired the dynamo which was until recently on Dr. W. R. Dyke's Foden, and before that is believed to have been found on a Garrett Piston-Valve Tractor in or near Andover. Dr.
Dyke's Foden, "Prospector", is now fitted with a larger dynamo which the Doctor obtained from a laundry at St. Blazey. This dynamo was originally on Burrell 3660 "Victor", since cut up. The twisted brasses from "Victor" now adorn Mr. R. Tonkin's Burrell 4010,
"Empress of Cornwall" (DD6888). More Hayle news—Sentinel 8454 (CML 734) has been steamed to Winrhectar and pvrhangod far Riirrell
3399 "Pride of Hampshire". The journey from Hayle with the Sentinel was started by Messrs. J. Collinson, G. C.
Clark and L. B. Hosking, but owing to business reasons, Mr. Hosking was obliged to complete the latter part of the journey without help. He also started on the return trip with the Burrell but as no assistance was available, the Burrell completed its journey on a low-loader and is now at Hayle. "Pride
of Hampshire" is a 7 n.h.p. Single Crank Compound, sprung aft, painted green. The canopy tapers towards the front. The leading ends of the strakes on the near-side hind wheel are on the outer. edge of the wheel—the reverse of normal. How is this explained?
Still more Hayle news! Mr. G. C. Clark has exchanged the Robey Tandem Roller (48869—EDV916) for a ten-ton Fowler single cylinder Roller
21
(16045—AF7501). Last summer the latter was bought by Mr. M. Lynne of Fraddon from Messrs. Jeweils of
Wadebridge and it now stands beside "Pride of Hampshire" at Hayle. An enthusiast in the St. Columb district has purchased a 6 n.h.p. single Marshall Traction (34022—built 1900) from Mr. J. H. Adams of Langtree,
Torington. He hopes to steam it to St. Columb soon and will then restore it. Mr. J. H. Adams has sold his Marshall compound roller (66420) to Mr. J. T. Moore, of Horns Cross, Bideford. Mr. Moore also owns a Garrett over-type Waggon which is fitted with superheater, and a three-way tipping body operated by a steam turbine. Very few vehicles of this type were built and Mr. Moore's (34932) is believed to be the only survivor. The little Fowler (7942) at Carn Brae is undergoing a very thorough overhaul. At present the tender, hind wheels and axle have been removed and it is obvious that Mr. J. Warren means to make a good job of this engine. In North Devon, Mr. G. L. Tribe has started work on his newly-acquired Aveling and Porter Traction (6407). This engine was recently towed from Upton Pyne, near Exeter, to her new home at Bratton Fleming by Mr. Shambrook's Aveling Tractor (8624— KT6137) assisted by Mr. Balkwill's Marshall 86265). The latter is a 6 n.h.p. single, built in 1931. Mr. F. J. Miller, of Whitchurch,
Bristol, who recently restored his Garrett Tractor "Queen of Great Britain" to its present splendid condition. is now busy with Burrell "General Gough", whose last owner was Mr. V. Kirk of Oxford. Mr. Miller is fortun-
ate in having facilities, a willing team of helpers and the will to do a job really well. His transformation of the Garrett from what it was when it was standing in front of "Masterpiece" at Staple, Hill a year or two ago to the showroom condition it is in now, is almost unbelievable. "General Gough"
should be worth seeing when completely reconditioned. The only activities at Coombe have been further painting of Messrs. Leath and Pearse's Aveling Roller and a trial
steam-up of that engine a few days ago. Everything went well—no steam or water leaks—a credit to the two owners who have had such limited time to do such a lot of work. As one side of the engine has as yet had little
22
STEAMING
attention regarding cleaning and painting, it is still possible to compare "before and after"—and what a difference there is ! Mr. Emery's Burrell 2877 (HT3163) now known as "His Majesty" and formerly as "Perseverance", has recently been transported from Highbridge to Riverside Garage, South Molton Road, Umberleigh, Devon, where she will be extensively overhauled by Mr. H. C. Stenner. This engine belonged to Messrs. Heal, of Bristol, and was standing in their yard at Bedminster
for several years. Mr. Stenner's own Burrell (3794) is being re-painted. It is an unusual engine, having 6 h.p. cylinders on a 7 h.p. boiler, motion plates, disc flywheel, sprung aft, and with a front axle which is 21 inches longer on the near side than on the off side of the steering pivot. There are hopes of one or two more engines coming to the West in the near future but we must wait for the next instalment for details, and until July 16th to see them in action at their first rally appearance. C.P.G.
H. Bastable's Foster No. 14500 "Ben Hur" on Town Moor, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, June 15th, 1938. WILTSHIRE Member J. E. Plaister has purchased a Marshall 6 n.h.p. Compound Traction Engine, No. 71837. Spring mounted fore and aft. This engine was new to H. R. Cole, Esq. of Cirencester on 25th October, 1919, and the late owner was Mr. W. Wall of Fairford, Glos. Restoration work has now been started on her ; a new set of boiler tubes have been fitted and as soon as the boiler has been hydraulically tested the job of relagging the boiler will be started and then she will be painted in her maker's show finish colours. Member J. W. Powell has now laid his Garrett Tractor, No. 33738 up for
the winter after a busy year in steam. 1959 was the first time this tractor had been in steam since she was purchased in 1951 by Mr. Powell, as this tractor has been completely rebuilt mechanically, the boiler relagged and the tractor repainted. The Northleach Traction Engine Rally in 1959 was the Garrett tractor's first rally and it won the cup for the best Traction Engine at this rally. She was driven to this rally under her own steam by her owner. The last job in 1959 she did was to fetch a Marshall 6 n.h.p. Single Cylinder Portable Engine, No. 85954 back to Mr. Powell's home at Ashton Keynes, Wilts. which Mr. Powell has bought for preservation. J.E.P.
STEAMING
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The Power Packed (61°,sr.) Manzel Cylinder Lubricator Ever thought of fitting a 3-point Lubricator giving a separate feed to each port face and a good oiling to the steam itself ? Consult British Menzel Oil Pump Co. Durranhill Eng. Works CARLISLE 21418/9
Boiler Certificates
News Flashes
AT their last meeting, the Committee elected one of their number to keep a record of valid boiler inspector's certificates and the date of expiry. This will have many advantages as it will not be necessary to send the certificate to the Secretary when entering for each Club Rally once it has been checked by the Boiler Records Officer. In the list of Committee Members elsewhere in this issue will be found the Boiler Records Officer's address, and it will be of considerable assistance if members will send their boiler inspector's certificates to him forthwith to be recorded in the Club's records. The certificates will be returned to the owner as soon as possible. Will members please attach to their certificate a sheet of paper giving details of their name, address and engine details if these are not clearly legible on the certificate itself. The list of entrants for any Club event will be checked with the records held by the Club, and only those shown as having a valid certificate will be accepted for entry.
T. B. Paisley of Holywell, Huntingdon, writes that Robcy Tri-Tandem Roller No. 43755 (Reg. No. 1412) was lying damaged outside W. H. Oldmans works at St. Ives (Fowells old works) as a result of an accident. The casting holding the steering roll pivot and part of the front roll itself were in pieces. K. M. Vigus of Dursley writes that on a journey through Somerset he saw Burrell Roller No. 4062, 8 ton D.C.C., on a building site outside Taunton. P. D. Holden of Cheadle Hume, Cheshire, writes that two Fowler Ploughing Engines, Nos. 14694 and 14695, built 1917, and owned by Samuel Jackson & Sons Ltd. of Wistaston, Crewe, are working at the Marley Tile Delamere Delniere. Cheshire, scraping off a 20 ft. layer of peat to expose a seam of sand, a job that cannot be tackled by the bulldozers as the ground will not take their weight. Aveling Porter S.C. Roller, No. 10906, built in 1924. is still hard at work around Wilmslow, its condition being comparable to that of privately owned engines seen at rallies.
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STEAMING
GEORGE THURLOW & SONS LIMITED
STOWMARKET
SUFFOLK
'Phone : STOWMARKET 585 (3 lines)
Solicit enquiries for items they can supply for Steam Engines, amongst same are :— BOILER TUBES CHIMNEYS WITH OR WITHOUT BRASS OR COPPER TOPS INJECTORS, GAUGES, ETC. PACKINGS PAINTS SUCTION HOSE ENGINE AND CYLINDER OILS
All enquiries will receive prompt and careful attention
7.
-14/11M111
SCENIC ROAD LOCO. ARRANGEMENT 8 H.P. DOUBLE CRANK, COMPOUND. 3 SPEED COUBLE GEARED. SPRING. C HARLES BURRELL & SONS LTD. THETFOFtD ENGLAND.
-mar,
26
STEAMING
The Foster drawing shown on this page and that of the Fowler shown
FOSTER SHOWMAN 'S
opposite, are both obtainable from Percival Marshall & Co. Ltd., of 19-20 Noel Street, London, W.1, by whose kind perMission they are reproduced here.
0
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P. (IN
I
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STEAMING
27
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STEAMING
FIFTY YEARS OF LIVING WITH STEAM By ALF PEPPER Late of John Fowler & Co. (Leeds) Ltd. AFTER going round the different Locomotive, built for Jacob Studt departments for four years I went to April, 1901 and called "General the Repair and Prototype Department Buller," but in 1905 it was bought in 1900, and about my first job on by W. H. Marshall of Bradford and repairs was on J. Crampton Whirligig this engine then came into the works Engine No. 4922. That was in 1900, for repairs every year until scrapped and it was still working at Tyne Dock in 1948. in 1928, being built in 1885. " Some No. 9292 was a B.6 Compound engine!" Then came " Sunny Boy," Road Locomotive built for the War No. 6375, built July, 1891, a B.1 Office (A.S.C. No. 4) in 1902 and Single Cylinder Showman new to was later bought by Harry Hall of H. Marshall of Bradford. This Helper who converted it to a Showcame in several times after for man's Engine. In December, 1915 repairs and travelled the York- it was brought to the Works and had shire West Riding. An engine we a new boiler No. 14590, was overoften had in for repairs was No. hauled, and went out like new. 6492, owned by J. and I. Dyson of No. 9381, a B.5 Compound Road Stannington, and was a B.3 Com- Locomotive for Smith's Tadcaster pound Heavy Haulage Engine which Brewery, was built April, 1902, and later went to Portland in 1927, being was sold in 1922 and converted to built November, 1892. A 6 n.h.p. a Showman's for Chris Johnson of Compound Road Locomotive bought Wakefield and named " Lady Betty ". by E. H. Rostock in February, 1892, No. 9383, Class R.I Showman's No. 6635, named "Jumbo," was Compound Road Locomotive, delibought by J. W. Waddington in vered to I. G. Danter on June November, 1892, and overhauled and 12th, 1903, and named "Queen converted to a proper Showman's Alexandra ". Several months after Engine. A B.3 Compound Road delivery I had to go to this engine at Locomotive Showman's Engine, No. Milford Haven as they had got the 7643, was built in September, 1896 winding forward drum seized up on for J. W. Waddington and named the driving boss. It was years after " King of the Caterers ". This was sold to C. Heal of Bristol and named eventually bought by the War Office " Her Majesty". in February, 1900 for the South No. 9384, A.5 Special Compound African War for Searchlight work. Road Locomotive, built for Lalonde This engine and many other engines, Bros. & Farnham February, 1904 for No. 8062, J. J. Wagstaff of Southend- furniture removing, was a 2 speed on-Sea ; No. 8420, W. A. Sheppard ; (special speeds) engine and was sent No. 8466, F. 3, Barnes ; and several to Leeds in July, 1920. It was overothers was overhauled February and hauled and new firebox fitted, and March, 1900 and sent to the South then sold to W. Cleeworth, and in African War. 1923 was sold to Anderton & RowNo. 7780, a Class C Compound land and scrapped in 1941. Road Locomotive Showman's Engine, No. 9387, Class A.5 Showman's was built for J. W. Waddington in Compound Road Locomotive, built April, 1900 to replace No. 7643. This March 14th, 1904 for Jacob Studt and engine was called " Spanker," but named "George VI". This engine Mr. Waddington had taken the name- was fitted with screw type clutch plate " King of Caterers " off No. gear and was returned to Leeds in 7643 and he then put it on No. 7780. 1905 and overhauled and the screw This engine came in for repairs every type clutch gear taken off and lever September at the time of the Holbeck type fitted. It was painted and lined Feast. like new, and sold to Biddal Bros. No. 7973, built 1898 for Matthew in April, 1905, was later in the posHarvey of Newcastle, was several session of Sid Squires, and scrapped years later bought by Evans Amuse- in 1941. ments and was overhauled and conNo. 9391, Class R Showman's verted to' a Showman's. Compound Road Locomotive. Sold No. 8725, a B.5 Showman's Road to Harry Studt of Clydach on
STEAMING
Fowler Whirligig Engine No. 4922, built in 1885 for J. Crampton, and still at work in 1928.
Fowler Class R No. 10693 "The Sun", built in 1906 for Captain Payne.
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STEAMING March 20th, 1905 and named " His and then W. H. Church in 1939. Majesty ". This engine was returned Scrapped in 1947. to Leeds for overhaul and alterations No. 11108, A.5 Compound Road on February 6th, 1916. It was Locomotive, to John Buch of Taunthen fitted with new dome cover ton, November 30th, 1909, and named and Pickering governors and exciter " Dreadnought ". This engine was on right hand side of front tank and overhauled in Leeds and sold to W. painted crimson lake and lined equal Cole of Bristol and converted by him to new. to a Showman's Engine, then to No. 9984, B.6 Showman's Com- Percy Cole, then to G. Scarratt, and pound Road Locomotive, for James was standing from 1942 until bought & Richard Monte, December 31st, by W. Epton of New Bollingbrook, 1904, who sold it to S. Stokes of Lincoln, in December, 1953. It was Overton, Hants., in April, 1909, and taken to Oxford by low-loader and
had written on awning facie boards, " Who would have thought it, horses bought it ". Originally named " The Showman ". John Evans of Edinburgh bought it in April, 1923, and
then T. Miller of Manchester in October, 1941. No. 10318, Class B.6 Showman's
Compound Road Locomotive. March, 1905. Named " Sunny Boy No. 2 ". Sold to W. H. Marshall of Bradford, and later to Edwin Box of Manchester and then to Walter Denton, in whose yard it was in May, 1957. No. 10329, B.6 Showman's Com-
pound Road Locomotive. Delivered to Goldthorpe Marshall of Bradford on August 18th, 1905 and named " Envoy," then Kit Johnson of Wakefield, and then to Taylor Bros. of
Cumberland who used it for threshing until 1945 when it was scrapped. No. 10693, Class R Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for Capt. Payne, June 18th, 1906, and named " The Sun ". This had the
boiler lagged with aluminium. Sold to Tim Ray in 1934 and then S. Barker of Derby, and was scrapped in 1954. No. 10696, Class R Showman's
Compound Road Locomotive, for Ben Howden of Asplands, September 29th, 1906, and named "George 1st ". Overhauled at Leeds in October, 1915, and later sold to Dagnalls Ltd. of Willesden and then E. Hill &
Sons of Swindon in April, 1920. No. 10700, Class R Showman's
Compound Road Locomotive, for Geo. Green of Glasgow, June 16th, 1907, and named " Anglo-Scot ". I went to this engine in 1910 at Hawes as they had broken a spring hanger. I fitted two new spring hangers with the engine under steam all the time. No. 11107, Class A.5 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for A. Wildman, April 30th, 1909, and named " Monarch ". Sold to John Evans in 1913, then W. Shaw in 1921,
steamed from Oxford to Boston (126 miles) in two days. (Per letter from W. Epton). Now owned by W. Taylor & Son of Sutterton, and took the first prize at Rempstone Rally in 1956. Reg. No. YA92.
No. 11126, Class R Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for Farrer & Tyler of Doncaster, May 8th. 1908, and named " Our Fancy ". Then to Tippler White, then to J. Ling, then to J. P. Collins of Man-
chester in 1943, and renamed " Felix," later to J. Taylor of Clagton, and scrapped in 1950. In Leeds a new cylinder was put on this engine. No. 11127, Class R Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, to W. H. Marshall of Bradford, May 9th,
1908, and named " Hero ". Then sold to H. Waddington of Bradford, and was scrapped in 1952. No. 11368, 13.6 Compound Road Locomotive, for J. & I. Dyson of Stannington, February 24th, 1908, and named " Sally ". Then bought by Tim Ray who converted it to a
Showman's in 1936, then to a broker, and finally to Ireland in 1939. No. 11826, Class R.2 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for H. Studt of Clydach, August 24th, 1910, and named " King George V".
This engine had four road speeds and was exhibited at Yorkshire Show in Leeds in August, 1910. It was in lead colour with black and white lining. I did repairs to this engine at Morriston and Swansea. It was sold later to John Studt. No. 11846, B.6 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for J. & R. Monte of Hartlepools, March 12th,
1929, and named "Lord James ". It
had a 7 in. face flywheel. I did repairs and fitted new hot water injector, clackbox and pipes in Howcroft's yard at Hartlepools. Pat Collins bought this engine in 1919 and it was scrapped in 1953, but before Pat Collins bought it it was in
STEAMING the works for minor repairs when he was travelling the Leeds district fairs. No. 11987, B.6 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, built for John Murphy of Newcastle, March 3rd, 1909, and named " Violet Victoria ". This engine had an exciter on the right hand side of the front tank. It was later sold to Jack Wood, Nr. York, and scrapped a few years later. No. 11991, B.6 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for Farrer
& Tyler's of Doncaster, April 18th, 1910, and named " Venture". This was a regular visitor to the works when in Leeds area for minor repairs and adjustments. It was scrapped in 1946 by John Farrer of Sheffield. No. 12169, Class A.8 Compound
Road Locomotive, for J. Armistead of Leyburn, September 10th, 1910.
This was originally a short-range spring gear engine and was returned to the works to have the long-range
spring gear and gearing fitted and was later sold to W. H. Church of Halifax and converted to a Showman's engine. No. 12228, Class B.6 Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for J. & R. Monte, April 13th, 1911. It was sold to Pat Collins, Jnr. in January, 1919, and later to Pat Collins, Senr. Named " Lord James ". No. 12635, Class R.1 Compound Road Locomotive, 2 special speeds, for Barnby Bendall & Co. of Cheltenham, May 13th, 1912, and named " Uncle Bill ". This engine was overhauled in Leeds in 1918, and was bought and converted to a Showman's by W. Swallow of Gloucester. In 1932 it was owned by Geo. Taylor of Redbourne, a dealer, who sold it in 1936 to J. Bond of Hampstead, and was bought by Fred Gray of London in 1939. No. 12910, B.6 Compound Road Locomotive, for Geo. Gunter of Wetherby, September 6th, 1912. It was bought by C. Openshaw and converted to a Showman's, and then sold to Jack Hoadley in May, 1930, and named " King of Them All ". It was later sold to L. Jobson in 1945 and renamed " Jubilee ". No. 13036, R.3 Compound Road Locomotive, for N. E. Box of Manchester, May 7th, 1912. This engine was fitted with Boulton wood block wheels. It was sold in 1919 to Mitchell & Sons of Bolton and named " Despatch," and later owned by Hewitt & Kellett, Boilermakers, of
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Bradford, and in 1934 sold to J. E. Whiting of Sheffield and converted to a Showman's engine. No. 13092, R.3 Compound Road
Locomotive. This engine was built with Boltroil wheels and tested out on Redcar sands, and was then altered to a standard engine and bought by F. J. Barnes of Portland on March I7th, 1917. It was later bought by Jacob Studt and converted to a Showman's and named " Lord Kitchener". No. 14110, B.6 Compound Road Locomotive, for War Office, December, 1914. It was bought by C. Openshaw and converted to a Show-
man's and sold to Mr. Richards and named " Lafayette," then sold to Goldthorpe Marshall and named " Excelsior," and was seen in Denton's yard at Hyde in 1956.
No. 14111. B.6 Compound Road Locomotive, built for the War Office, December, 1914, and bought and
altered to a Showman's by C. Openshaw, then sold to John Murphy and named " Gladiator". Running in 1948. Scrapped 1953. No. 14112, 13.6 Compound Road
Locomotive, built for the War Office, December, 1914, and bought and altered by C. Openshaw. Then sold to J. Ling of Sheffield, named
" Gladiator," and used to travel from London District to Newcastle Town Moor Festival and then all Yorkshire fairs, also with a similar engine No.
14119, named " The Great Bear ". No. 14845, 13.6 Showman's Cornpound Road Locomotive, for John Farrer of Sheffield, June 20th, 1920, and named " Reliance ". Later owned by his brother E. C. Farrer. No. 14862, Class R.3 Little Lion Compound Road Locomotive, for Minister of Munitions, March 3rd, 1917. Was bought by J. Studt and sent to the works for conversion to a Showman's engine. It was originally a 2-speed engine, but altered to a 3speed engine, and had new dome cover and Pickering governors fitted and was named " Prince of Wales ". Later bought by A. I. Bartlett and
was named " Birdlip " after an accident on Birdlip Hill, and was later owned by J. Steel Parry, Arnold Bros.
in 1947 and renamed " Excelsior," then to L. J. C,aseley of Trent, Sherbourne, and in 1951 bought by Mr. Salem of Prestbury who had it overhauled and repainted, and was bought by Mr. D. Millar of Brighouse in May, 1954 and was exhibited on his
32
STEAMING
firm's Oil stand at the Yorkshire colour with black and white lining, Shows at Harrogate in 1955/6/7/8 were brought back to Leeds works.for and has been at several exhibitions minor repairs, etc. and repainted in this year. I went with Mr. Millar to Showman's colours. examine and buy this engine. No, 15654, Class R.3 Showman's No. 14868 Class R.3 Little Lion Compound Road Locomotive, for Compound Road Locomotive, for J. Monte Williams, June 26th, 1920, Minister of Munitions, March, and named " Dolly ". This engine 1917. Bought and altered to Show- had a 6 in. longer dynamo platman's by C. Openshaw, then bought form than standard. In 1934 it by Reuben Holdsworth and named was sold to Anderton & Rowland and " The Princess," who brought it to renamed " Lioness," then sold to G. Fowlers to have the third speed, Rodgers of Chipping Sodbury in 1938, new dome cover and Pickering then to W. Wilson, who sold it to governors fitted. It was sold to W. Billy Williams, and was scrapped in Smart of London in 1937 and 1952. The tanks held 310 gallons of scrapped at Ewell in 1948. water, and was painted when new in No. 14877, Class R.3 Little Lion midland red and primrose wheels. Compound Road Locomotive, for No. 15658, Class R.3 Showman's Minister of Munitions, March, Compound Road Locomotive, for 1917. Bought and altered by C. Simons & Teago of Anglesey, Openshaw to a Showman's, then February 21st, 1923, and named " His bought by Willie Marshall of Brad- Lordship ". Then owned by Harris ford and brought to the works to Bros. in 1924 and then to Will Starr. have the third speed, Pickering This was the only Showman's engine governors and dome cover fitted as built by Fowler's with an exciter the Holdsworth one. It was named between cylinder and chimney. after his daughter " Little Margaret," David Donnelly of Limerick, May and had a new cylinder in 1928 and 15th, 1924, and named " Pride of eventually sent abroad in 1951 by a the Shannon ". This engine was broker. driven by me from Dublin Docks No. 15116, Class R.3 Showman's to Limerick, and had to make Compound Road Locomotive, for a detour of over fifty miles owing to Jack Whyatt, April 1st, 1920, and the bridges being blown up during the named " Bertha ' . It travelled to trouble in Southern Ireland. Michael Lancashire and Yorkshire fairs with McMahon bought it in 1934 and was a 40 ft. set of Gallopers and later hauling loads and lighting up with his Swirl, and later sold with machines in 1952, but I now underhis Swirl to Mrs. J. Beach of London stand it is in a market square in Irein 1943 and used by them until 1953. land with low pressure piston and rod It then stood in their yard at Coln- and connecting rod and all copper brook, and was then sold to Rev. pipes missing. I understand that the Martin Atkinson in June, 1956 and owner is in a mental home and that taken to Chalfont St. Giles. nothing can be done with it. No. 15652, Class R.3 Showman's No. 19782, B.6 Super Lion ShowCompound Road Locomotive, for man's Compound Road Locomotive, John Murphy of Newcastle, May 8th, for Anderton & Rowland, March 1920, and named " Repulse". Used 13th, 1932, and named " The Lion ". until 1942, then stood in farmyard in This engine was built under my Co. Durham. and was bought by Mr. supervision and Was sold to Mr. P. Bates of Leadgatc, Co. Durham, Lucas of Salisbury in 1951. It was in 1958 and was at the Consett Rally at the Cranborne Rally this year, in 1959. It was sold recently and and in the Veteran Drivers' Parade taken on a low-loader to Mr. Lugg's I was persuaded to drive it, and it yard at Billinghurst for a friend of was given out on the public address Mr. Lugg's. system that the driver was the person No. 15653, Class R.3 Showman's who supervised the building of the Compound Road Locomotive, for engine. I was awarded the Silver John Murphy, May 8th, 1920, and Cup and Lady Cranborne presented named "Renown ". It was used me with it. (By the way, I had to be until 1942, then left in a yard at lifted up and down into the tender Wingate, and bought by Mr. Tate in as I could not climb the steps!) 1956 and was at Chester-le-Street No. 19783, B.6 Super Lion ShowRally in 1958. These two engines man's Compound Road Locomotive, Nos. 15652/3 were delivered in lead for (Evans Amusements Ltd.), and
STEAMING
161111191111
011
MICEMIFIeri"
Fowler Class B.6 Super Lion No. 19783 "King Carnival II", built in 1932 for John Evans (Evans Amusements Ltd.).
Fowler Class B.6 No. 19989 "Onward", built in 1933 for S. Ingham.
33
34
STEAMING
named " King Carnival II ". Then in 1948 owned by T. Cunliffe of Handsworth, a dealer, who sold it to J. Thompson's Boiler Works, Wolverhampton, in 1951, and it is at present working in their yard. No. 19989, B.6 Super Lion Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for S. Ingham of Manchester, April 8th, 1933, and named " Onward ". (It was driven by Sam Breeden who now owns a beautiful Garrett Tractor). This B.6 engine was bought by Pickfords in 1941 and was eventually scrapped by Cohen's in June, 1950.
great job to do, and he told me he would do it if it took two or three years. It nearly broke my heart when I saw it, as when erecting this engine I was given instructions by Mrs. Deakin to make it the best engine ever turned out by Fowler's and so it was therefore " Supreme ". These last four engines were specially made to have left hand steerage and reverse on the right hand side. Many more engines came into the works, as the Marshall family of Bradford had had eight Fowler's and
Fowler Class R.3 No. 15116 "Bertha ", built in 1920 for Jack Whyatt. No. 20223, B.6 Super Lion Showman's Compound Road Locomotive, for Mrs. A. Deakin & Sons of Brynmar, March 12th, 1934, and was named " Supreme ". This engine was sold to Road Traction & Kerr's Ltd. of Glasgow on May 27th, 1942, then bought by J. B. Lyndhurst of Chichester in October, 1951, and was then brought down by road by W. Druce and was sold to G. Hardwick of Ewell in August, 1953. T saw it in 1954 in Hardwick's yard, and it was bought in 1958 by Jack Wharton who hopes to bring it up to its former glory. But as I saw it in September this year he has got a very
two Burrells at different times ; M. Murphy, John, Wal ter and William Murphy had eighteen engines including two Burrells that came in when in the Leeds area ; J. W. Waddington had seven engines at different periods ; N. E. Box had twelve Fowler Compound Road Locomotives from 1906 to 1928 ; all of which came in the works when passing through Leeds for minor repairs. I have had dozens of engines pass through my hands, both for repairs inside and outside of the works. During the time that No. 19989 " Onward " was being erected, April and May, 1933, I had Anderton &
STEAMING Rowland's two Burrell engines No. 3912 " Dragon " and No. 3896 " Earl Beatty " in for new fireboxes and overhaul and had new hind wheels fitted (Fowler type) for pressed-on rubber tyres and was repainted and lined out. These went out like new engines. At one time I had Reuben Holdsworth's centre engine out of the flying pigs machine in the works and had a new boiler made for it and the centre was built up and steamed and tested in the works with the revolving
35
tops, one clockwise and the other anti-clockwise. I was on the War Office Trials in 1901 and at Aldershot and Salisbury Plain. When in charge of repairs in the works I never refused anything belonging to the showmen, so therefore 1 had a great experience of showmen's machinery. There are many Showman's engines that 1 have worked on at different periods, but my memory now fails me at 77 years of age.
FOR SALE AND WANTED For Sale.—Unused Pressure Gauge by Boordon, up to 350 lb. per square inch indicated. £3. Vicarage, Woodford Bridge, Essex. Fowler Traction Engine parts list for Sale, 6s. each, including postage.— A. Pepper, Esq., 11 Waincliffe Mount, Dewsbury Road, Leeds, 11. For Sale.—Two 4 in. Auto-positive injectors for pressures up to 150 lb. sq. in. One brand new, the other a month old.—R. Bateman, 82 Harmondsworth Lane, West Drayton, Middlesex. 7 n.h.p. Wallis & Steevens Agricultural Engine, No. 2932, S.C. Built 1908. Needs boiler and detail repairs. —H. Green, 61 Jennings Road, St. Albans, Herts. Davey Paxnaln Portable Engine, 3 n.h.p. Built 1918. Colonial model. Weight 21-3 tons. In excellent order. £75.—R. D. Smith & Son, Inworth, Kelvedon, Essex. Phone: Kelvedon 438. Burrell Tractor, No. 3540, " Gladstone ". Boiler insured. No repairs needed. Good working order. £300. —G. B. King, Blacknest Farm, Cameley, Temple Cloud, Bristol. For Sale.—Sentinel Wagon and Foster Showman's Tractor. Details : D. N. Knight, Old, Northants. For Sale.—New Boiler. Tubes, 11 in. diameter, 3 ft. 10 in. low.—J. T. Beeby, Wymeswold Road; Rempstone, Loughborough, Leics.
Wanted.—Working Scale Model of Burrell Showman's Engine "Thetford Town" or similar. Would consider Fowler model. Details, price and photograph if available to Advertiser, c/o 51 Putnoe Lane, Bedford. Wanted.—Marshall 7 n.h.p. Flywheel, spoke or disc. Details and price to Advertiser, c/o. 51 Putnoe Lane, Bedford. Wanted.—Twisted brass awning stays, Showman's fittings, rubber tyres or wheels, complete for Garrett Tractor.—R. H. Capper, Esq., 23 Queens Road, Hoylake, Cheshire. Wanted.—Steam Engine builders of Norfolk, Steam Engine builders of Suffolk, Essex and Cambs. Also Steam Traction and Motor Car literature pre 1940.—G. R. Hawthorne, 5 Wellfield Close, Tilehurst, Reading. Wanted.—Left Hand Steerage Shoe for A.C. Type Aveling & Porter Steam Roller, No. 14135.—J. M. Edwards, 396 Unthank Road, Norwich. Wanted.—Complete Differential for Aveling & Porter Roller, No. 8778. Built 1916. 12-14 Ton. Price and condition to J. T. Beeby, Wymeswold Road, Rempstone, Loughborough, Leics.
YOUR VIEWS AS TO BOTH THE LAYOUT AND CONTENTS OF THIS ISSUE WOULD BE WELCOMED BY THE EDITOR. As from March 20th my address will be as follows: J. CRAWLEY, FIELD HOUSE, TURVEY, BEDS. Telephone: TURVEY 248.
D.M. water treatment W. N K.: ii 0 1.,
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• . ._ f . -,-,. . .--.. . „, Burrell 8 n.h.p. D.C.C. No. 3949 "Princess Mary", built in 1923 for W. Nichols. Whether he is nursing' a boiler of an Ocean Liner, or a Power Station, for a living, or tending a traction engine for a hobby :
For longer life and greater efficiency Engineers all over the world recommend D.M. Water Treatment. If one is using hard or soft water, the scale of corrosion which result can only be prevented by efficient water treatment. ,,,,,,,,,,,
41 1 \
Consult :
HOUSEMAN & THOMPSON LTD. THE PRIORY
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BURNHAM • BUCKS. Published by National Traction Engine Club for private circulation Printed by Stonebridges Printers Ltd., Greyfriars Walk, Bedford
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