MODEL LOCOMOTIVES

Mechanical inventions soon give rise to models of them. This was certainly true of railway locomotives. After the opening of the world's first passenger line, between Stockton and Darlington in 1825, it wasn't long before models of the engine and coaches were made. These early replicas were often quite crude and are sometimes called carpet models. As the C19th progressed, modelling became more popular and more sophisticated. It was not just a case of producing a toy, but the engineering of scale models. Indeed, it was considered a mark of a good engineer that smaller scale, working versions could be accurately built.

The 1920's and 1930's was perhaps the greatest period for British steam locomotive production and innovation. The different railway companies competed to produce the fastest and most efficient locomotives. The Great Western Region and the London North Eastern Region were great rivals. The GWR produced its Castle Class, the LNER had its Pacific Class of which The Flying Scotsman was the most famous. Both these classes of locomotives were eagerly replicated by modellers in a variety of gauges, scaled down from the 4ft 8 1/2 inch original. Some of these modellers, such as L. "Curly" Lawrence, were keen to encourage good engineering practice, with the use of coal for fuel in even the smaller gauge models. Further more, men such as Lawrence found it a challenge to make small gauge locomotives powerful enough to haul passengers.

Horner's auction at Acle Gallery on Saturday 10th September, has two excellent examples of model locomotive with tenders. One is a King Class, 4-6-0, 3 ½ inch  gauge, King Edward VII, with GWR green livery. The King Class was a modification of the Castle Class. In their day both Classes compared well with any other express locomotives. The second example is a 0-6-0 (the same configuration as the fictional Thomas) Tank Engine. In the black livery of the LNER and with the number 847, it is 2 ½ inch gauge, and was made by the well-known modeller R.H. Morse. This model had the distinction of pulling one man for one mile on one fill-up of fuel and water.  These two locomotives provide excellent examples for the collector and are reminders of the golden age of the steam loco. Also in the sale are the usual varied selection of antiques and collectibles, including high quality silver and jewellery, collector's dolls, cranberry and other glassware, ceramics, pictures, watches and clocks, swords, etc.

 

The auction will be held at Acle Gallery on Saturday 10th September commencing 10am.

Viewing Friday 9th September 10am – 7pm & from 8.30am – 10am on the morning of the sale.

This auction will, of course, feature the absentee Live Bidding service via www.the-saleroom.com now with audio and video connection giving world wide coverage.