Image Licensing : Fire Fly. 2-2-2 Broad Gauge locomotive designed by Daniel Gooch and built in 1840

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This stunning photograph captures the majestic beauty and historical significance of the Fire Fly, a 2-2-2 Broad Gauge locomotive designed by the renowned engineer Daniel Gooch and built in 1840 at Swindon Works of the Great Western Railway (GWR). The Fire Fly, which is not to be confused with the Firefly steam locomotive company, was an innovative engineering marvel of its time, featuring a unique broad gauge design of 7 ft 0 in (2,134 mm) between the rails. The Fire Fly was one of the most powerful and efficient locomotives of its era, capable of pulling heavy loads at impressive speeds. Its distinctive design, with large driving wheels and a slender boiler, made it a sight to behold on the railway tracks. The locomotive's name, "Fire Fly," was given due to its ability to produce a bright and powerful flame from its firebox, illuminating the night sky as it traveled through the darkness. The Fire Fly saw active service on the GWR network for three decades, contributing significantly to the expansion and development of the railway system in the mid-19th century. However, with the gradual transition to standard gauge railways, the Fire Fly was eventually withdrawn from service in 1870. Today, this historic locomotive is proudly displayed at the Steam Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon, where it serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the Victorian era. Visitors to the museum can marvel at the intricate details of the Fire Fly's design, from its massive wheels to its intricately crafted boiler and cylinders. The Fire Fly's legacy continues to inspire and captivate railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike, making it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the rich history of the railways.