Steam Engines for Heavy Haulage on Common Roads — Early Trials and Early Apprehensions: 1856–1861

Abstract

In 1856, a steam-powered traction engine was an exciting spectacle in a public procession. A year later, one travelled 85 miles over English roads, drawing a train of heavily loaded wagons — taking three days but showing what steam haulage could achieve. Engineers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs then vied in developing and deploying traction engines — alongside parallel developments in applying steam power to agriculture. But what were the dangers of massive steam engines working on public roads? Given the presence of very many horses on the roads, a noisy engine might cause one to rear up or bolt, throwing a rider or overturning a horse-drawn carriage. Regulation was needed! This should include equitable toll charges on turnpike roads, especially if heavy engines might cause serious damage. Legislation — eventually passed in 1861, after laborious parliamentary consideration — included speed restrictions and the possibility of banning daytime journeys in some urban localities.