The Steamboating Forum

We had a trip to London this weekend, basically to watch the pre-1904 veteran cars set off on the annual Brighton Run. But this is all over by 8:30, so we went along to the Science Museum at South Kensington to see the 1788 Dalswinton steamboat engine - one of the very first. I've seen engravings of the engine, but it has a very confusing endless chain drive system so it was wonderful to see it and I could nearly figure out how it worked. The museum's computer inventory of exhibits does not have the word Dalswinton, so we just went looking for it - it is on the second floor and is called Symington's engine - William Symington built it for Patrick Miller. Incidentally Dalswinton Estate in south Scotland has the replica boat on display that was made by Dumfries College - I have a mind to visit and photograph it for an SBA register update.
http://www.dalswintonestate.co.uk/history.htm

Anyway, back at the Science Museum I was heading for the facilities on the ground floor and was astonished to find the engine of the Comet there too - I had no idea it had survived and was at the museum. A very interesting engine. No photos, sorry. The museum has lots more marine steam models and small steam engines, so well worth a visit if you are in London. John

Hi John

Thanks for the information and yes please to any up to date pictures for the Register. It is now being updated so any new photos woud be most welcome

On that note could I relay a plea to SBA members and others who photograph SBA activities at home and abroad? The website would love to display your pictures, but you need to send them!

Regards

Pete

PS Sorry about the "Commercial"!