STEAM Swindon Reorganisation

I see from the news that KGV and Truro are now at STEAM ready for the 175 exhibition. I can't find it recorded anywhere what's moving to make the space. Anyone know?

 

Railcar No. 4 has moved out for a start.

 

Lode Star and The Diesel Railcar will go to York in their place. A shame, I'd rather Lode Star have stayed and Dicheat Manor gone to the NRM!

 

A friend informed me that Lode Star was spotted arriving in York this evening.

 

I recall first seeing Lode Star in the original GWR museum circa 1963 whilst on a spotting trip from 'ull. That ages me

 

Prestige loco's such as Lode Star should be at York, after all it is the National museum. I understand the need to preserve items under cover but the prime exhibits should be at York. No more offshoots!

 

Some coverage from local media:
http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/..._the_locos_makes_emotional_return_to_Swindon/
http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/...100mph_loco_City_of_Truro_returns_to_Swindon/

 

Out of interest, I assumed the NRM usually wanted locos in their original liveries-is there a particular reason why KGV has always remained in BR livery? Not particularly bothered either way, just wondering!


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Most likely because it is in BR condition. I was privileged to paint it in the early 80s with Andy Williams when it was still in the care of Bulmer's.

 

It still looks good! Is there much difference between a King in BR and GW condition then?


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National Museum? Its basically a collection of NER loco's and stock, with a reasonable LMS collection - and then a few BR bits. Anything outside that is fairly limited.

Personally, would much prefer to see a good western-based offshoot - much like the proposed second national offshoot at Leicester North on the GCR, adding to Shildon - than dragging our beloved copper and green up'North. STEAM for me personally is OK, but just doesn't do it well enough on either a tourist or enthusiast level. Well done to Swindon council for supporting it, but in reality is it much more than a Dad's amusement and educational arcade whilst Mum shops?

 

"Dicheat Manor" is there on a five-year loan agreement from owner, the WSRA. With 175 coming up, and tensions a plenty at present in the WSRA, I dare say she will still be there well into 2016 before anyone thinks of moving her.

 

Really? The last time I visited the great hall had 3 LNER/NER locos, 2 GWR, 4 Southern Region, 1 BR standard, the bullet, the Chinese massive thing, a box and the rocket replica, plus invicta. I would say that's not a bad cross section! The station hall was 2x LMS, 1x NE and 1x LBSCR too, again- not bad!I think the only thing really missing (possibly) could be another industrial loco- I think there is only Bauxite? Currently on display?


Chris

 

I think the double chimney is the most obvious detailed difference between as built and its current condition.

Peter James

 

If while having their move round, someone could "accidentally" knock down the wall blocking in 2516, that would be appreciated...

 

I think that STEAM tells the whole story of the GWR and to call it an amusement and educational arcade is an affront to the good folk who put it together.

 

Well, by viewing the STEAM website I've learnt a new word pertaining to something I do most weeks. Which is cleaning up nuts and bolts for re-use, i.e. Scragging. Anything from the 'keep' bolts on Commonwealth bogies to the 0BA bolts on the corridor connection rain covers.

I think I need a sign to display above my bench!

 

Personally I'm glad to see somewhere which isn't all about BR or the GWR both of are a bit over represented. It's nice to see the LNER and NER get a look in.

 

Spot on Anthony. I suspect many who criticise STEAM rarely if ever visit. The swapping over of National Collection rolling stock between York and Swindon from time to time has to be applauded.

 

Anyone on here ever managed to contact STEAM's curators?
All I get is their answerphones and leaving a message gets zero response.