Image Licensing : No 4573 Prairie Tank Locomotive at Chipping Norton Station, 1960

EDITORS COMMENTS

In this evocative black-and-white photograph, the 2-6-2 Prairie Tank Locomotive No. 4573 proudly stands at Chipping Norton Station in Oxfordshire, captured in 1960. The station, which opened in 1855 and closed in December 1962, is bathed in the soft, diffused light of a bygone era. The 45XX Class locomotive, built in 1924, is a quintessential symbol of the steam age. Its distinctive "Prairie" design, with the water tank positioned between the boiler and the cab, was a popular choice for branch line and suburban services in the United Kingdom. The locomotive's powerful presence contrasts sharply with the quaint station buildings, their red-brick facades adorned with white detailing and ornate chimneys. The scene is further enhanced by the absence of modern conveniences and the subtle signs of wear and tear that add to the authenticity of the image. The station platform, with its wooden sleepers and worn-out asphalt, is a testament to the passage of time and the relentless march of progress. As the sun begins to set, the last rays of light illuminate the scene, casting long shadows and adding depth and texture to the photograph. The 4573, with its shiny brass fittings and gleaming metalwork, seems to glow in the fading light, a beacon of the steam age that once ruled the rails. This photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, a time when steam trains were the lifeblood of the railway network and Chipping Norton Station was a bustling hub of activity. It is a poignant reminder of the romance and nostalgia that surrounds the golden age of steam and the enduring allure of the railway.