Canvas Print : Traction Engine BAR03_01_030

EDITORS COMMENTS

This photograph, taken by Norman Barnard in 1956, portrays a moment of fascination and connection between the public and the past at Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire. The centerpiece of this scene is the vintage steam traction engine BAR03_01_030, a road locomotive manufactured by Charles Burrell & Sons in 1904. With its intricate design and imposing presence, this 8 NHP engine, numbered 2668, draws the crowd's attention. The steam traction engine, a marvel of engineering from an era long past, showcases the industrial prowess of the early 20th century. The engine's intricate boiler, large flywheel, and detailed control mechanisms are on full display, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of this mechanical behemoth. The engine's history is as rich as its appearance. Produced by the renowned Burrell company, it was still touring and captivating audiences in the early 21st century. The event at Woburn Abbey provided an opportunity for the public to step back in time and engage with this piece of engineering history up close. The photograph captures the sense of wonder and curiosity as onlookers gather around the engine, some peering in through the open cab, others taking in the details from a distance. The scene encapsulates the allure of the past and the enduring appeal of engineering marvels, making it a testament to the enduring connection between history and the human spirit.