Photographic Print : King George V hauling an express train

EDITORS COMMENTS

King George V, the monarch of the United Kingdom from 1910 to 1936, is depicted in this photograph as he personally takes the reins of power, not just as a monarch, but also as an enthusiastic railway engineer. The image captures the King in the cab of a steam locomotive, number 6000, which was named in his honor, as he expertly hauls an express train along the tracks of the Great Western Railway (GWR). The year is 1928, and the King's visit to the GWR was a significant event for the railway industry and the people of Britain. The railway had been a vital part of the country's infrastructure since its inception, and the opportunity to see their monarch at the helm of a steam engine was a source of great pride and excitement. The King's interest in railways was well-known, and he was an accomplished engineer in his own right. He had even designed and built a model railway at Sandringham, his country estate. This personal connection to the railway industry made his visit to the GWR even more meaningful. The photograph captures the King in his element, with a determined expression on his face and a firm grip on the controls. The steam engine roars to life, billowing clouds of smoke as it gains speed, pulling the express train along the tracks. The scene is one of raw power and determination, with the King at the helm, embodying the spirit of progress and innovation that defined the age. This photograph is a testament to the King's love for the railway industry and his commitment to the advancement of technology. It is a reminder of a bygone era when monarchs were not just figures of ceremony but also active participants in the daily life of their people. The image is a treasured artifact at the Steam Museum of the GWR, a symbol of the rich history and heritage of the railway industry in Britain.