This is a news article about the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825. The event was celebrated at the UITP Summit in Hamburg, Germany.
The article highlights the significance of this milestone as it marks two centuries of passenger rail travel. It also emphasizes the importance of rail transport in fighting climate change, with UITP general secretary Mohamed Mezghani stating that “rail is a clean mode of transport” and an essential part of many cities’ transportation systems.
However, the author also corrects some myths surrounding the history of this railway line. Les Turnbull’s archival research has revealed that the S&DR did not introduce any groundbreaking technologies, nor was it the first public railway or even the first to carry passengers. The article highlights the inaccuracies in James Stephen Jeans’ 1875 book, which perpetuated these myths.
The text also provides a brief history of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, including its early years when locomotives were not used exclusively and revenue was mainly generated from coal transport rather than passenger traffic.
In addition to Locomotion Museum’s exhibits, the article mentions other attractions in the area that have been created to commemorate this milestone.
Source: www.forbes.com