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Junction of the Great Western Railway with the London Branch, 1844. Creator: Unknown
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Junction of the Great Western Railway with the London Branch, 1844. Creator: Unknown
Junction of the Great Western Railway with the London Branch, 1844. Two signal-posts of great size, and conspicuous for their markings and colour, have been placed on the left of the up line, in the angle formed by the junction of the two lines. One of these posts - a very tall one - is devoted to the use of the Great Western Line; and the other - a short one - to the use of the West London. The signals...are so arranged that the one is made to work relatively with the other. Thus, when the full face of the cross bar of the branch post is turned full on the line, giving warning " To Stop, " the position of the round board above it gives signal of " All Clear" to the main line, and so on. Meantime the tall post makes its own signal of " All Clear" to the main line, and " Stop" to the branch one. At night these signals are made by lights. From " Illustrated London News", 1844, Vol V
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Media ID 20551463
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Great Western Railway Junction Lamp Lights Railway Bridge Railway Line Railway Track Railway Tracks Railways Signal Signal Box Signalling Signalling Post Signals Steam Locomotive Steam Train Train Train Track Trains Illustrated London News
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the Junction of the Great Western Railway with the London Branch in 1844. The creator of this remarkable image remains unknown, but it provides a fascinating glimpse into the early days of railway signaling technology. In the foreground, two signal-posts stand tall and imposing on the left side of the up line, marking the junction between these two important railway lines. One post, notably taller than its counterpart, is dedicated to guiding trains along the Great Western Line. The shorter post serves as a guide for trains traveling on the West London Line. The signals themselves are ingeniously designed to work in harmony with each other. When the branch post's cross bar is turned fully towards the line, indicating "To Stop" a round board positioned above it displays an "All Clear" signal for trains on the main line. Simultaneously, using lights at night, this tall post conveys an "All Clear" message to mainline trains while instructing branch-line trains to stop. This photograph not only showcases impressive engineering and design but also highlights how early rail systems prioritized safety and efficient communication between different lines. It stands as a testament to both technological advancements and meticulous planning that were crucial during this transformative era in transportation history.
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