The steam locomotive is a machine that has inspired imagination, innovation and invention from the time of its origination and continues to evoke passion in enthusiasts today. Here Michael R. Bailey, expertly and in fascinating detail, describes the development of the steam locomotive during its pioneering first half-century until 1850 by exploring the surviving locomotives that may be seen in Britain, Europe, and North and South America. In addition to surviving relics, he also takes a look at operable replicas, which fill many gaps in international collections, to provide continuity in this evolutionary story.

Exploring in depth each example’s operational and preservation history, along with design characteristics, component materials and modifications made, no detail is left unmentioned. With unparalleled detail, incredibly stunning images and a list of museums housing all of the world’s oldest locomotives, this truly is a volume that no student of railway history should be without.

MICHAEL R. BAILEY is a railway historian who has undertaken projects for museums in England, Canada and Denmark. He writes and lectures (and occasionally acts as a TV consultant) and was a consultant to UNESCO regarding the Rhaetian Railway’s application for World Heritage status. He is a member of the Newcomen Society, and was its president 1995 – 1997. He was a Trustee of the Museum of Science & Industry in Manchester and remains president of the museum Friends, and is a vice-president of the Stephenson Locomotive Society.