About the Project

The locomotive was designed and built at the time of transition between traditional metal working crafts and factory production. Tulk and Ley rapidly gained a reputation for pioneering work in a wide range of machinery and construction projects. In particular, they developed the concept of the ‘tramp steamer’, a small to medium sized steam powered vessel taking goods from one coastal port to another. Their works employer skilled traditional workers and invested in their equipment and education, enabling training courses and apprenticeships to be developed. Workers came from other countries to learn new skills, and later took these back to develop production centres in their own countries. The need for precise measurement and accurate calculation gave rise to the achievements of Whitworth and the arrival of precision tools and instruments. It was an extremely important period for industrial progress.

The placing of a plain driving wheel axle beneath the floor of the driving and firing position enabled more space to be given to the crew, creating a safer environment. It also made room for a larger firebox and grate area, meaning more steam pressure, not wasted by the very short pipes between dome and cylinders. The outside valve gears were easier to maintain.  Because of Crampton’s links with the gas industry, coke was sometimes used as a fuel, thus cutting smoke emissions markedly.

It will be necessary, from the outset of the project, to give careful consideration to the provision of suitable maintenance and repair facilities for the locomotive and train, along with suitable machinery, supplies and proper provision for staff. Fundraising strategies will need to be in place for these. It is intended to pursue enquiries for a suitable location for these provisions, preferably at a heritage railway.

The Trust intends to offer practical support, wherever possible, to the provision of training in skills which otherwise would run the risk of being lost, and which are essential to the future maintenance of steam rail traction. Practical training in skills such as forging, riveting, and machining would be supported in whatever way the Trust might have the ability to assist, and co-operation with heritage railways, museums, companies and the full range of educational establishments would be welcomed. In addition, assistance with research projects, both practical and academic, would be considered where appropriate.

Since a great deal of Thomas Crampton’s work was done in other countries, especially in France and Germany, opportunities to assist suitable projects abroad would be considered,

A great deal of time and effort must be devoted to raising funds to support the above aims and objectives:

1. 1. Appeals to individual donors will be made through this website, through the appropriate magazines and through suitable social media. There will be special initiatives mounted to fund major components such as driving wheels and frames. A range of sales products should be developed. Stands at national and regional exhibitions should be organized.
   2. Approaches should be made to suitable companies for the sponsorship of major items.
   3. A continual initiative to identify suitable foundations, trusts and bequests in the Directory of Grant Making Trusts should be organized and pursued, submitted formal requests for funding backed by suitable supporting materials.