Overview

Steam traction engines were most widespread in Scotland from the 1880s until the 1940s - mainly for road haulage, powering threshing mills, ploughing and, in steam roller form, in road-making. The book describes the use of steam power on Scottish road and field, and places National Museum Scotland's 1907 Marshall traction engine in its historical context with details of its construction, acquisition and restoration. A key feature of the book is the large number of extensively captioned contemporary photographs, many never prevously published. These photographs provide a vivid insight into the construction and use of the machines, and the conditions of those who worked with them.

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9781905267378

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Reviews

'What a wonderful change to receive a book dedicated to engines in this country commissioned and produced by National Museums Scotland - and all credit to it for doing so. - As well as being aimed presumably at the curious museum shop purchaser, the detail is still enough to satisfy the steam enthusiast, engineer and historian - ' Old Glory ' - The book is generously illustrated with well-produced photographs, engravings and facsimiles of documents, all suitably captioned. Many of the photographs are published for the first time - The chapter end references are to academic standard, and the index is extensive. Design and production of the book is excellent - ' Steaming (mag of the National Traction Engine Trust) ' - this well-illustrated study of the traction engine and its various applications on Scotland's roads and fields is an important and fascinating contribution to history.' Scottish Field ' - Perhaps the most important point to make about this book is that you don't have to be a Scottish enthusiast to enjoy it. The fact that the traction engine story is presented in a slightly different social, cultural and geographical backdrop is what made it so compelling to me. As well as being well-written and superbly illustrated, it's likely to appeal to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.' Vintage Spirit (the Magazine for Steam & Industrial Heritage) ' - wonderfully illustrated throughout, and adding to the value of the illustrations is their detailed captions. - The book itself is far more than a collection of illustrations, however fascinating they are. - The final part of this excellent book looks at the preservation of Scottish traction engines and at examples in museums, bringing the story bang up to date.' Undiscovered Scotland website

Author Information

Alexander Hayward is Keeper of Science and Technology at National Museums Scotland, and heads a department responsible for outstanding objects ranging from a 1786 Boulton and Watt steam engine to Concorde.

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