Stockton and Darlington Railway No. 1 “Locomotion”

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of the Stockton and Darlington Railway No. 1, affectionately known as Locomotion. This pioneering steam locomotive, originally named Active, holds a special place in the annals of railway history, having been the first to haul a passenger-carrying train on a public railway. Built in 1825 by the esteemed engineers George and Robert Stephenson at their Robert Stephenson and Company manufacturing firm, Locomotion No. 1 is a testament to the ingenuity and vision that propelled the Industrial Revolution forward.

The Birth of Locomotion No. 1

In the early 19th century, the world was on the cusp of a transportation revolution. On June 23, 1823, George Stephenson, his son Robert, and businessmen Edward Pease and Thomas Richardson established Robert Stephenson and Company in Newcastle. This enterprise quickly became a beacon of innovation in locomotive engineering. In November of that same year, the Stockton and Darlington Railway Company placed a crucial order for four stationary engines, setting the stage for the creation of Locomotion No. 1.

On September 16, 1824, the Stockton and Darlington Railway Company ordered a pair of steam locomotives, each priced at £550 (equivalent to approximately £55,577 today). The first of these locomotives, Active, later renamed Locomotion No. 1, would soon make history by becoming the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger train on a public railway. Its design was a culmination of George Stephenson's experiences with his earlier Killingworth locomotives, incorporating several groundbreaking innovations.

Design and Engineering Marvel

Locomotion No. 1's design was a marvel of its time. Weighing 6.6 tonnes, the locomotive featured a centre-flue boiler, driving a pair of vertical cylinders with a diameter of 9 inches. These cylinders were half-embedded within the boiler, generating high-pressure steam at 50 psi. The steam was then expelled through a blastpipe in the chimney, propelling the locomotive forward. One of the most significant innovations was the use of coupling rods to link the driving wheels, reducing the likelihood of wheel slippage on the iron rails.

Despite its groundbreaking design, Locomotion No. 1 had its limitations. The centre-flue boiler provided a lower heating surface-to-water ratio compared to later multi-flue boilers, which affected its overall efficiency. Nevertheless, it could achieve a maximum speed of around 15 mph (24 km/h), a remarkable feat for its time.

A Historic Journey

In September 1825, Locomotion No. 1 embarked on its historic journey from Newcastle to Darlington. On September 26, the day before the grand opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the locomotive underwent a trial run between Shildon and Darlington. The following day, September 27, 1825, marked a monumental moment in railway history. Driven by George Stephenson himself, Locomotion No. 1 hauled the first train on the Stockton and Darlington Railway, carrying eleven wagons of coal, the passenger carriage Experiment, and an additional twenty wagons filled with passengers, guests, and workmen.

The train, with an estimated weight of 80 metric tons and a length of 400 feet, reached a maximum speed of 12 mph (19 km/h) and completed the first 8.7 miles of the journey to Darlington in two hours. This historic event not only demonstrated the potential of steam locomotion but also laid the foundation for the future of railway transportation.

Challenges and Triumphs

Locomotion No. 1 continued to serve the Stockton and Darlington Railway for several years, but it faced its share of challenges. On July 1, 1828, the locomotive suffered a catastrophic boiler explosion at Aycliffe Lane station, resulting in the tragic death of its driver, John Cree. Despite this setback, the locomotive was rebuilt and returned to service, continuing to operate until 1850.

As locomotive technology advanced rapidly, Locomotion No. 1 became obsolete within a decade. However, its historical significance ensured its preservation. In 1857, the locomotive was converted into a stationary engine and later restored for display. Over the years, it found a permanent home at various locations, including Darlington Bank Top railway station and the Head of Steam museum. Today, it resides at the Locomotion museum in Shildon, where it continues to inspire and educate visitors about the early days of railway engineering.

A Legacy Preserved

Locomotion No. 1's legacy extends beyond its physical presence. It is proudly depicted on Darlington's coat of arms and the badges of its football and rugby clubs, symbolizing the town's rich railway heritage. In 2025, as part of the celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, Locomotion No. 1 will return to Darlington for extended visits, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its historical significance.

For those eager to experience the magic of early steam locomotion, a working replica of Locomotion No. 1 was built in 1975. This replica, once operational at Beamish Museum, now resides at the Head of Steam museum in Darlington, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the chance to witness the marvel of early railway engineering in action.

In conclusion, Locomotion No. 1 is more than just an early steam locomotive; it is a symbol of human ingenuity, determination, and progress. Its story is a testament to the transformative power of innovation and the enduring legacy of those who dared to dream of a world connected by rail. A visit to see Locomotion No. 1 is not just a journey through history but an inspiring reminder of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.