, ,

No. 2874 centenary sees 2-8-0 become GWR memorial

by

NOVEMBER marked the 100th anniversary since the completion of unrestored GWR ‘28XX’ 2-8-0 No. 2874 at Swindon.

To mark the anniversary – and also the centenary of the end of the First World War – the 2874 Trust has dedicated the heavy freight loco to the GWR employees who lost their lives during the two world wars.

There is a way to go before Churchward 2-8-0 No. 2874 returns to steam, but when it does it will carry commemorative plaques honouring former GWR employees who died in both world wars. GARY BOYD-HOPE

Two specially cast oval brass plaques will be carried on the cabsides of the locomotive once its restoration has been completed at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

The inscription reads: 1914-1918, Dedicated to the Men & Women of the Great Western Railway who gave their lives in defence of our Country during the two World Wars, 1939-1945.

No. 2874 was built at the end of the First World War, but still played an active role during the second conflict, hauling coal trains while allocated to the likes of Reading and Banbury.

The centenaries of its construction and the Armistice therefore provided the perfect platform to commemorate the GWR’s fallen workers.

Article continues below…
Advert

Read more in the January 2019 issue of The RM – on sale now!



Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


About the Author