17 original drawings of Great Western Railway track layout from Tilehurst to Didcot

Description:

Presenting a rare and remarkable piece of railway history the folio contains 17 meticulously detailed draughtsman’s ink drawings, capturing the Great Western Railway’s track layouts and associated fields, stations and buildings etc. between Tilehurst and Didcot. Spanning a 17-mile stretch at a scale of 25 inches to a mile, these drawings offer an unparalleled glimpse into the precision and craftsmanship of 19th-century railway engineering. Each sheet is stamped with 'Great Western Railway, 25165, Engineers Office, Paddington', dated and initialled, affirming its authenticity and historical significance. The folio begins with Sheet No. 37, detailing the 'Parish of Tilehurst/ Parish of St. Mary’s Reading,' and concludes with Sheet No. 53, covering the 'Parish of Didcot / Parish of East Hagborne.'

These drawings are an exquisite example of period engineering art. They also include red ink annotations—queries or requests for clarification—adding a layer of narrative that reflects the rigorous standards of the time.

This is a tangible link to the golden age of railway expansion, making it an invaluable addition to any railwayana collection or historical archive.

Condition

Oblong folio (360x700mm), recent cloth, leather title piece. Vg.