A new exhibition at Swindon’s STEAM Museum tells the story of those who turned the popular childhood dream of being a train driver into reality.
‘A Job for Life’ explores the career path that many railwaymen aspired to, from humble beginnings as an engine cleaner to the prestigious role of a driver.
It delves into the long and challenging journey to the footplate - a slow and rigorous process, which required years of dedication, skill and patience, especially for those who aimed to drive the fast express locomotives.
It delves into the long and challenging journey to the footplate - a slow and rigorous process, which required years of dedication, skill and patience, especially for those who aimed to drive the fast express locomotives.
The exhibition shines a spotlight on the vital role of mutual improvement classes, with historical documents on display that offer an insight into how railway workers developed their knowledge and skills.
Visitors also learn about the role of Swindon’s Park House, which provided the crucial medical examinations needed for those aspiring to work on the engines.
Elaine Arthurs, Collections and Exhibitions Officer at STEAM, said: “The path to becoming an engine driver was hard, but rewarding. It could take years before you were at the top of your game.
“It took a lot of dedication, working all sorts of hours, in all sorts of weather. It wasn’t for everyone.”
Cllr Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, said: “This new exhibition at STEAM offers a rare glimpse into the world of railway training and the dedication required to become a driver.
“The museum does an incredible job of showcasing the town’s rich railway history and it’s great to see new exhibitions opening at the museum.
“This new exhibition, along with the history already on display, is such an important asset to residents and especially to children who want to learn more about where they grow up.
“And maybe it’ll even inspire some to become train drivers themselves.”
The exhibition is included in admission to the STEAM Museum and runs until 31 December. Tickets for the museum can be bought at https://www.steam-museum.org.uk/
Elaine Arthurs, Collections and Exhibitions Officer at STEAM, said: “The path to becoming an engine driver was hard, but rewarding. It could take years before you were at the top of your game.
“It took a lot of dedication, working all sorts of hours, in all sorts of weather. It wasn’t for everyone.”
Cllr Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, said: “This new exhibition at STEAM offers a rare glimpse into the world of railway training and the dedication required to become a driver.
“The museum does an incredible job of showcasing the town’s rich railway history and it’s great to see new exhibitions opening at the museum.
“This new exhibition, along with the history already on display, is such an important asset to residents and especially to children who want to learn more about where they grow up.
“And maybe it’ll even inspire some to become train drivers themselves.”
The exhibition is included in admission to the STEAM Museum and runs until 31 December. Tickets for the museum can be bought at https://www.steam-museum.org.uk/
Your Comments
Be the first to comment on this article
Login or Register to post a comment on this article