Skip to main content

Rights Managed > STEAM Museum of the GWR > Carriages and Wagons > Weedkilling Trains

GWR Weed Killing Train, 1938

GWR Weed Killing Train, 1938


Please Click On A License Option

Intended Use

Filename: HPX 058.jpg

Size: 3162 x 2406 (1.7MB)

Date: 16th May 2016

Source: STEAM Museum of the GWR

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

We accept all major credit cards


Image Downloads
Canvas Prints
Fine Art Prints
Metal Prints
Home Decor


STEAM Picture Gifts

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from STEAM Museum

GWR Weed Killing Train, 1938

To operate smooth running services the GWR needed to keep their tracks and tracksides free of unwanted weeds and foliage. The GWRs weedkilling trains usually consisted of an engine and three tenders. The tenders held water which was mixed with the weedkilling solution held in a separate tank. It was then sprayed out the back onto the tracks with jets

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway

Media ID 12100234

© STEAM Museum of the GWR

1930s Weedkilling Weeds Weedkiller


FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Carriages and Wagons > Weedkilling Trains

> People > Railway Workers


EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print from the STEAM Museum of the GWR, we are transported back to 1938 and given a glimpse into the meticulous efforts undertaken by the Great Western Railway (GWR) to maintain their tracks and ensure smooth running services. The image showcases a remarkable piece of engineering - the GWR Weed Killing Train. Comprised of an engine and three tenders, this specialized train was specifically designed to combat unwanted weeds and foliage that could potentially hinder railway operations. Each tender held water while a separate tank contained a potent weed-killing solution. As the train moved along the tracks, jets at its rear sprayed this mixture onto both sides, effectively eliminating any encroaching vegetation. This photograph not only highlights the innovative approach employed by GWR but also serves as a testament to their commitment in providing efficient transportation services during that era. It is fascinating to witness how technology was harnessed for such practical purposes even before modern advancements were available. The attention to detail exhibited by GWR in maintaining their infrastructure is truly commendable. This image offers us an opportunity to appreciate not just their dedication but also provides insight into historical practices within railway maintenance during the 1930s. Overall, this print captures an intriguing moment in time when ingenuity met necessity on Britain's railways, reminding us of how every aspect of operation played a vital role in ensuring seamless travel experiences for passengers across the country.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.

lightbox add My Lightbox




Related Images


GWR Weedkilling Train Tenders, W85, W84 and W83
GWR Weedkilling Train Tenders, W85, W84 and W83
GWR Weedkilling Train tender W82, 1938
GWR Weedkilling Train tender W82, 1938
GWR Weedkilling Train with sprays on, 1938
GWR Weedkilling Train with sprays on, 1938
Weedkilling Train Tender for Cardiff Docks
Weedkilling Train Tender for Cardiff Docks
GWR Weedkilling Train showing tenders W83, W84 and W85
GWR Weedkilling Train showing tenders W83, W84 and W85
Weedkiling Train Tender for Cardiff Docks
Weedkiling Train Tender for Cardiff Docks
GWR Weedkilling Train Tenders W83, W84 and W85
GWR Weedkilling Train Tenders W83, W84 and W85
GWR Weedkilling Train - view of cab and oil tanker
GWR Weedkilling Train - view of cab and oil tanker
Men leaving Swindon Works, Rodbourne Road entrance, 1928
Men leaving Swindon Works, Rodbourne Road entrance, 1928
Nailsea and Backwell Station, Somerset, c. 1900
Nailsea and Backwell Station, Somerset, c. 1900
Camerton Station, Somerset, c. 1900
Camerton Station, Somerset, c. 1900
Box Station, 1885
Box Station, 1885