Sunday, February 9, 2025

replica of the Queensland locomotive 'Mary Ann' from 1873


Steam locomotive 299 on the left -- a ten wheeler B15 class of which 98 were built between 1889 and 1899 -- was the first steam locomotive built by Walkers Ltd Maryborough for Queensland Government Railways in 1897.The original Mary Ann was built by Walkers Ltd in 1873.

'a job in a real book depository is a good one to have'

Overbrook Trolley, Philadelphia, 1908


In 1908, the Overbrook Trolley provided a vital transportation link between West Philadelphia and the surrounding neighborhoods. The electric trolley system replaced older horse-drawn lines, making travel faster and more reliable. Overbrook, known for its stately homes and green spaces, attracted families looking for a suburban feel while still being connected to the city. The trolley’s wooden cars, with their distinctive metal poles collecting power from overhead wires, rattled along well-maintained tracks. Commuters relied on the service to reach jobs in the Central City, while shoppers used it to access the bustling commercial districts. (Historic Philadelphia)

Long Island Motor Parkway, NY, 1908


This offers a rare glimpse into the early days of American automobile history. The Long Island Motor Parkway (also known as the Vanderbilt Parkway) with the Manhattan skyline in the background was built in 1908 and it holds the distinction of being the first road in the United States designed specifically for automobile traffic. The parkway's construction marked a groundbreaking step in transportation, incorporating innovative features like overpasses and bridges to accommodate the growing number of motor vehicles.

Originally a private toll road, the Long Island Motor Parkway was frequented by wealthy car owners who used it for leisurely drives and even racing. At a cost of $2 to travel, it was a playground for the early automotive elite. This exclusive road was an essential part of the rise of car culture in America, symbolizing the beginning of the modern road network and the shift toward automobile-centered transportation.

Though the parkway was closed in 1938 and eventually absorbed by the state, parts of it have been preserved and repurposed as a scenic bike path in Queens. The Long Island Motor Parkway remains an important historical landmark, offering a window into the automobile age’s birth and serving as a reminder of the innovative spirit that shaped the evolution of roadways in the 20th century. (fHistory Pictures)

Mercedes Benz O 319 minibus promo art, circa 1955


The Mercedes-Benz O 319 was produced between 1955 and 1971, known for its high quality and luxury features such as comfortable seating and air conditioning. It was built on a heavy-duty platform, making it more reliable and durable than its competitors. It was popular as a private tour bus and for commercial transport.



moving a WW2 German U-Boat by road

 The U-Boot U17 was transported by road to the Technik Museum in Sinsheim, a technology museum.  U17 is an impressive 48 meters long and weighs 450 tons.

Transporting the submarine was a gigantic operation that lasted 15 months and covered more than 650 km [400 miles]. To ensure it reached its destination, it was necessary to close highways, remove signs and even use a special 30-axis platform! The total cost of the project was approximately 2 million Euros, financed by donations.  This year the submarine will be open for viewing, allowing everyone to explore its interior. (National Geographic)

a pup tent for the roof of a Morrie

Why not just put it on the ground? As a permanent fixture this would act like a sail on windy days. 

For lots more, see our book The New Zealand Morris Minor story.

Friday, February 7, 2025

Wednesday, February 5, 2025