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Commencement of the Salisbury and Yeovil Railway, 1856. Creator: Unknown
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Commencement of the Salisbury and Yeovil Railway, 1856. Creator: Unknown
Commencement of the Salisbury and Yeovil Railway, 1856. Notwithstanding the heavy rain, which began at an early hour and continued without the slightest intermission all day, the town of Gillingham [in Dorset] saw a very great influx of visitors...a substantial triumphal arch had been erected...The ceremony of turning the first turf was performed by Miss Seymour, sister of the hon. member for Poole, the Chairman of the Company. A very elegant barrow and spade were prepared for the occasion...The barrow is formed of walnut...The spade, of solid silver, is beautifully engraved and ornamented, displaying the arms of the South-Western and the Salisbury and Yeovil Railway Companies...having drunk a glass of champagne to the prosperity of the undertaking, the company adjourned to the pavilion, where nearly four hundred persons sat down to a first-rate dejeuner'. From "Illustrated London News", 1856
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Ceremonial Ceremony Crowds Greenery Member Of Parliament Opening Ceremony Pavilion Railways Rain Raining Rainy Spade Tools Triumphal Arch Umbrella Umbrellas Wheelbarrow
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken from the pages of the Illustrated London News in 1856, documents the Commencement of the Salisbury and Yeovil Railway in the English town of Gillingham, Dorset. Despite the incessant rain that drenched the town that day, a substantial crowd gathered to witness this historic moment. A triumphal arch, adorned with greenery and the arms of the South-Western and Salisbury and Yeovil Railway Companies, stood proudly as a symbol of the grand occasion. The ceremony began with Miss Seymour, sister of the Honorable Member for Poole and Chairperson of the Company, performing the traditional turning of the first turf. A magnificent walnut barrow and a silver-engraved, ornamented spade were prepared for the occasion. After a toast to the prosperity of the undertaking, the company retreated to a pavilion where nearly four hundred guests indulged in a first-rate dejeuner. The image captures the fashionable attire of the men and women of the time, with the ladies donning elegant dresses and the gentlemen in suits and top hats, some carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the rain. The architectural features of the archway and pavilion, as well as the intricately designed spade, add to the overall grandeur of the scene. This photograph is a testament to the excitement and importance of the railway expansion during the 19th century, as well as the social gatherings and celebrations that accompanied such events. It is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a glimpse into the fashion, politics, and transportation of the time.
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