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View of St Ives with the railway station in foreground. Around 1880
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View of St Ives with the railway station in foreground. Around 1880
The St Ives branch was opened on 1st June 1877, by the GWR as successors to the West Cornwall Railway. The stonework of the railway buildings still appears very fresh in this view, which cannot have been taken much later. A slightly different view of a similar date appears in the G.W.R. Journal Special Cornish Issue 1992. The permanent way consisted of 76 Ib bullhead rail in 35 Ib cast iron chairs on cross sleepers, and unlike the mixed gauge main line, was broad gauge only. The viaduct to the right of the picture had three openings of 40 feet and seven of 20 feet, wrought iron girders being carried on masonry piers. The curved station building has a certain Brunelian feel about it, even though completed some 18 years after his death. A small signal box is provided to operate the typical G.W.R. semaphore signal. Two coaches stand in the station, another further along, and what appears to be a saloon at the far end. All are in two colour livery. Goods waggons in the picture consist of about seven opens and three vans, the limited goods traffic being reflected by the small yard of only two short sidings in addition to the two lines through the station. There was also a small engine shed just out of shot to the right. at this date the pilchard industry was at its height, and boats appear everywhere, on the beach, under the viaduct, in front of houses, on the slope behind, and next to the signal box. The image was certainly taken before 1888 as the wooden pier is still in good condition and the quay has not yet been lengthened. Photographer: Edward Ashton
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TRURI : RYivs.1
Media ID 12491606
© From the collection of the RIC
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EDITORS COMMENTS
View of St Ives with the railway station in foreground. This photo print, taken around 1880, offers a glimpse into the bustling town of St Ives during its heyday. The stonework of the railway buildings appears remarkably fresh, indicating that this image was captured not long after the opening of the St Ives branch by the GWR in 1877. The picture showcases a slightly different perspective from a similar date featured in the G. W. R. Journal Special Cornish Issue 1992. The viaduct on the right boasts impressive wrought iron girders supported by sturdy masonry piers, while a curved station building exudes an unmistakable Brunelian charm despite being completed many years after his passing. Within this vibrant scene, we observe two coaches stationed at one end and another further along, possibly accompanied by a luxurious saloon car at the farthest point. These vehicles flaunt an elegant two-color livery that adds to their allure. As we explore beyond the railway station, our eyes are drawn to numerous boats scattered throughout: resting on sandy beaches, nestled beneath the grand viaduct arches, positioned before charming houses or perched atop slopes behind them. This abundance reflects St Ives' thriving pilchard industry during this period. Notably absent from this snapshot is any indication of commercial use or mention of Edward Ashton as simply "the photographer". It is worth noting that wooden pier stands intact and pristine while awaiting future extensions to accommodate growing maritime activities.
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