Home > STEAM Museum of the GWR > Locomotives
American S160 Class 2-8-0 locomotive No. 1609 upon arrival at Newport Docks, 1942
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from STEAM Museum
American S160 Class 2-8-0 locomotive No. 1609 upon arrival at Newport Docks, 1942
From late 1942 American locomotives began to arrive at the Great Westerns South Wales Docks, having been shipped over from America to assist allied forces both in Britain and on the Continent. In this image S160 Class 2-8-0 locomotive No. 1609 is pictured draped in the US and British flags having just arrived at Newport Docks. This was one of 800 S160 Class American engines that were dispatched from Newport to railways around the country. The vast cranes for lifting cargo from ships can be seen in the background of this image. Such was the quantity of goods being loaded and unloaded at the South Wales Docks during the latter half of the war that US forces loaned 30 ton floating cranes to the docks at Cardiff, Newport and Swansea to assist with the movement of heavy cargo
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
Media ID 19938897
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> Locomotives
> Steam
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> Locomotives
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> Places
> Docks
> Newport Docks
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> The Railway at War
> Second World War
> STEAM Museum of the GWR
> The Railway at War
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history during World War II. The image showcases the arrival of an American S160 Class 2-8-0 locomotive, No. 1609, at Newport Docks in 1942. These locomotives were shipped over from America to aid the allied forces both in Britain and on the Continent. In this particular photograph, No. 1609 proudly stands draped in both the US and British flags, symbolizing the unity between these two nations during a time of war. This locomotive was just one of the remarkable fleet of 800 S160 Class engines dispatched from Newport to railways across the country. The backdrop reveals an impressive sight - towering cranes used for lifting cargo from ships at South Wales Docks. During this period, there was an immense volume of goods being loaded and unloaded here due to wartime demands. To facilitate this process, US forces generously loaned heavy-duty floating cranes weighing up to 30 tons to Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea docks. This poignant image serves as a testament not only to the vital role played by American locomotives but also highlights the collaborative efforts between nations during times of adversity. It is a reminder of how transportation infrastructure played a crucial part in supporting military operations during World War II while showcasing the resilience and determination displayed by all those involved.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
