Image Licensing : No111 The Great Bear at Paddington Station, c1910

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print takes us back in time to the early 20th century, capturing the majestic No111 "The Great Bear" at Paddington Station. The year is approximately 1910, and this awe-inspiring locomotive stands tall and proud, showcasing its remarkable power and elegance. No111, a 4-6-2 Pacific Locomotive built in 1908, was truly a marvel of engineering during its heyday. Its sleek design and impressive size made it an icon of the era's railway technology. However, as with all things that age gracefully, No111 was eventually withdrawn from service in 1924. But this story doesn't end there; No111 had more to offer than just memories. After being retired from active duty on the tracks, it underwent a transformation into a new form - reborn as the distinguished 4-6-0 Viscount Churchill. This photograph not only captures a moment frozen in time but also serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these magnificent machines. It reminds us that even after their primary purpose has been fulfilled, locomotives like No111 continue to hold historical significance. Displayed proudly at STEAM Museum of the GWR (Great Western Railway), this print allows visitors to immerse themselves in an era when steam-powered locomotives ruled supreme. It invites us to appreciate both the artistry behind their construction and their enduring impact on transportation history – forever etched within our collective memory.