After Mondays visit to Middleton Top in Derbyshire I did indeed re-visit today. They were going to get the beam engine running once more on steam, first time since the 60's. External steam power (as the engine house own boilers are defunct) were to be supplied through traction engines.
I got up there early to see them setting up which I thought would be more interesting. That led to the chap from Derbyshire Council chatting to me and taking me ( and a lady who similarly had got there early) on a private tour inside and explaining everything before formalities had to kick in. With no H&S nonsense and the rest of the usual garbage we excercised common sense and had a brilliant time.He had a similar passion for old stuff and was so enthusiastic.
The place has ancient monument status and is Georgian pre dating the Victorians elaborate efforts. Pre dates Stephensons Rocket he informed us. Just 5psi of steam pressure is all it needs. When it was running the whole building came alive.
Anyway, the lady who had similarly come early was not a casual visitor. It turned out her son-in-law owned the fabulous engine 'Forrmost' found derelict in France.
t
An Aerial 600 single motorbike ridden by a great chap suitably attired below:
Foremost engine above.
The internal shots above/below are taken when formally open.
I got up there early to see them setting up which I thought would be more interesting. That led to the chap from Derbyshire Council chatting to me and taking me ( and a lady who similarly had got there early) on a private tour inside and explaining everything before formalities had to kick in. With no H&S nonsense and the rest of the usual garbage we excercised common sense and had a brilliant time.He had a similar passion for old stuff and was so enthusiastic.
The place has ancient monument status and is Georgian pre dating the Victorians elaborate efforts. Pre dates Stephensons Rocket he informed us. Just 5psi of steam pressure is all it needs. When it was running the whole building came alive.
Anyway, the lady who had similarly come early was not a casual visitor. It turned out her son-in-law owned the fabulous engine 'Forrmost' found derelict in France.
Last edited:
