Vehicle preceded by flag, 1883
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Vehicle preceded by flag, 1883
A man precedes a steam vehicle waving a red flag, to warn road users of its presence and to enforce a speed limit, in keeping with the Locomotive or Red Flag Acts of Parliament. An interested crowd gathers to watch the proceedings, supervised by policemen. Date: 1883
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Media ID 14127878
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1883 Acts Behind Gesture Limit Locomotive Pointing Policemen Preceded Rear Safety Spectators Speed Traction Warn Warning Waving
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, hailing from the annals of transport history in 1883, showcases an intriguing scene as a man in Victorian attire precedes a steam-powered vehicle on a bustling road. Waving a red flag, he serves a dual purpose: to warn road users of the impending presence of the steam engine and to enforce a newly implemented speed limit, as mandated by the Locomotive or Red Flag Acts of Parliament. The steam vehicle, a marvel of the era, emits plumes of smoke from its chimney, signaling the raw power and innovation that defined the traction engine age. The crowd that has gathered around the scene, a mix of men, women, and children, displays a sense of curiosity and excitement, their wide-eyed gazes fixed on the spectacle unfolding before them. Policemen in uniform stand nearby, ensuring the safety of the public and maintaining order. The woman in the rear of the crowd, her hands shielding her eyes from the sun, adds a touch of humanity to the otherwise industrial scene. This historical moment represents a pivotal time in the evolution of transportation, as the need for safety regulations became increasingly apparent with the growing popularity of steam vehicles on the roads. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the past, offering a glimpse into the early days of road safety and the role of human intervention in shaping the transportation landscape.
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