Image Licensing : Old Oak Common Engine Shed, c1910

EDITORS COMMENTS

Old Oak Common Engine Shed, c.1910: A Glimpse into the Past of Steam Railway Engineering This evocative photograph captures the Old Oak Common Engine Shed in its prime, around the turn of the twentieth century. The roundhouse, a vital component of the Great Western Railway (GWR) network, is bustling with activity. Located in London's West London, Old Oak Common was a significant railway complex, housing locomotives for servicing and maintenance. In the far right corner of the image, No. 2915 (Saint Bartholemew) proudly stands, its red and black livery gleaming in the sunlight. This 2-8-0 'Mogul' class locomotive was one of over 1,000 built between 1891 and 1902 for the GWR, making it a common sight on the rails during this era. The 'Saint' prefix in its name refers to its association with St. Bartholomew's Hospital in Bristol, which the locomotive served. The roundhouse, with its distinctive arched roof, is a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the time. It housed over 100 locomotives, each requiring regular maintenance to ensure the smooth operation of the railway network. The image showcases the roundhouse's inner workings, with various stages of engine overhauls underway. The Old Oak Common Engine Shed played a crucial role in the GWR's operations, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of its locomotive fleet. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the daily life and workings of a steam railway engine shed during the early 1900s.