Steam In The Country

Today was all about steam at the Hollycombe Collection. The venue houses an array of engines from the steam era, powering trains, boats and fairground rides. For the maximum steam exposure, Sunday is the day to visit. Around 60 engines are on site, the majority of which are running the various rides including steam powered gallopers, aerial razzle dazzle and ferris wheel. 

I overhead one of the staff joking to a visitor that they don't work on Sundays in summer. Sunday is the day for play - when all the engines are struck into life - a steam enthusiasts dream I should think. It is impressive that after over 100 years, these machines continue to operate so well. Bearing in mind that 100 years ago, the nearest thing to technology available in rural villages was a candle, perhaps an oil lamp for the well-to-do, the annual arrival of the steam fayre must have been a huge spectacle of speed, excitement and electric lights!

This gentleman was tending two stationary engines, used as workhorses in the steam age, powering all manner of equipment. He was what we like to call eccentric, entertaining the visitors, nevertheless the steam bug having taken hold with a vengeance.