Steam Locomotives

In the early 19th century steam locomotives were laughed at, and in one famous demonstration, Peter Cooper's locomotive, the Tom Thumb, lost a race to a horse. As the decades passed the technology improved, and Europe, North America, and other places across the globe were crossed by railroad tracks. Steam power turned wheels and changed the world.

Gallery: 19th Century Locomotive History
This gallery of images highlights the history of the steam locomotive. At first derided as an impractical and dangerous contraption, the steam locomotive eventually became a symbol of the age.

The John Bull Locomotive
The Smithsonian Institution, which owns the John Bull locomotive, presents its history.

Central Pacific Railroad
This comprehensive site, the full title of which is the Central Pacific Railroad Photographic History Museum, contains a vast trove of photographs of early railroads in the American west as well as a spectacular collection of old railroad maps.

Britain's National Railway Museum
The illustrious history of Britain's railways is portrayed at the National Railway Museum, which boasts a collection of more than 100 locomotives as well as some informative online exhibits.

Discuss in my forum

Explore 19th Century History

Must Reads