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Prime Minister William Gladstone opens the Metropolitan Railway, London, 1863 (1951)
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Prime Minister William Gladstone opens the Metropolitan Railway, London, 1863 (1951)
Prime Minister William Gladstone opens the Metropolitan Railway, London, 1863 (1951). Engineered by John Fowler, the Metropolitan Railway was the first line of what would eventually become the London Underground. On January 10 1863, the railway operated its first service, which ran from Farringdon Street north to Kings Cross, and west to Paddington (Bishops Road), utilising trains hauled by steam engines. A print from 100 Years in Pictures, A panorama of History in the Making, text by DC Somervell, Odhams press Limited, London, 1951
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Media ID 14951550
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Civil Engineering Fowler Gladstone John Fowler Metropolitan Railway Opening Passenger Passengers Prime Minister Print Collector12 Progress Public Transport Sir John Sir John Fowler Top Hat Train Travelling Underground William Ewart William Ewart Gladstone Metropolitan Line
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print, we witness a significant moment in history as Prime Minister William Gladstone inaugurates the Metropolitan Railway in London. The year is 1863, and the city's transportation system is about to undergo a revolutionary transformation. Engineered by the brilliant mind of John Fowler, this railway line would lay the foundation for what would eventually become the iconic London Underground. The image captures a scene filled with anticipation and excitement. Dressed in their finest attire, men and women gather around to witness this historic event. Prime Minister Gladstone stands tall at the center of attention, exuding confidence and determination as he prepares to open this new era of public transport. As steam engines pull trains along the tracks, passengers eagerly await their first journey on this groundbreaking underground network. The photograph beautifully encapsulates both progress and tradition - modern technology intertwining with Victorian elegance. This snapshot from 1951 offers us a glimpse into an era when civil engineering marvels were celebrated alongside political achievements. It reminds us of how far we have come since those early days but also serves as a testament to our enduring fascination with innovation and connectivity. Overall, this print immortalizes an important milestone in London's history - one that forever changed how its residents traveled through the bustling metropolis.
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