Locomotive Works Gallery

Swindon Works employees manouvering a wheel set by crane, c.1940

In this photograph a female crane operator is working alongside two male colleagues, manoeuvring a locomotive wheel set into place. What is particularly interesting to note in this image is the large expanse of roof lights, which have been blacked out as a precaution against air raids. The windows were painted with a thick black paint in order to prevent light from the workshops highlighting the Works as a target for air strikes. This had the effect of turning previously light airy shops into dark, gloomy places to work

U.S locomotive No. 1604 at Swindon Works in December 1942

U.S locomotive, No. 1604 is photographed here at Swindon Works in December 1942. Many of the American engines that were shipped to Britain were actually on their way to service on the continent. However, during their stay in Britain the American engines were put into service on the country's railway networks. The difference between US and Great Western locomotives provided challenges for locomotive crews with the high sided tenders causing issues at coaling stages and the single boiler water gauge leading to several boiler explosions. In total, 174 U.S. 2-8-0 locomotives worked on GW routes, with engine No. 1604 working across the Western network from January 1943 until she was sent overseas in September 1944

Signalman in operating signal levers during wartime, c.1940

A signalman in his gas mask continues normal duties at this unknown signalbox. But what is interesting about this photograph is the strange looking metal cabinet with its door ajar stood in the corner of the signalbox. This cabinet is actually a small air raid shelter for the signalman to retreat to. The shelters were nicknamed coffins as there was just enough space to fit one person. The large number of windows in a signalbox made them dangerous places to be in an air raid, so the coffins were installed to provide shelter from shattering glass and debris. The coffins were made of boiler-plate and were manufactured in the L2 (Tank) Shop at Swindon Works

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