Recreating Churchward's final masterpiece
Rebuilding the ultimate British 2-8-0
Churchward's last great masterpiece, the 47XX mixed traffic 2-8-0, is among the most iconic locomotives ever produced for the Great Western Railway. Only nine of these huge locomotives were built, primarily for fast overnight freight work, earning them the nickname 'Night Owls'.
Ironically the heyday for the class only came in the post-nationalisation years when the potential of these locomotives for use on heavy Summer Saturday passenger trains was recognised. In regognition of this they were turned out in fully lined BR passenger green livery.
None of the class survived, but over the years many people have expressed a desire to see a 47XX 2-8-0 in action again. Now the Great Western Society is creating a new member of the class, No 4709.
We hope you will enjoy visiting this website regularly to keep up to date with the build progress and discover how you can help.
Our Supporters scheme is an easy way for you to help the 4709 Project and enjoy a host of privileges. Click here for details or to make a secure online donation via The Big Give.
The Great Western Society project to build a 47XX engine is admirable as well as hugely exciting. It's a true engineering challenge that will require a great deal of detective work, as well as significant design expertise to recreate many parts that no longer exist. Additionally it will help to train apprentices in the skills and techniques needed to build this locomotive, thus preserving them for future generations.
4709 - The Story so far
Compiled by Andrew Fowler, Softback, 48 pages, £10 (inc P&P) by post from Richard Croucher, 4709 Appeal, Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot OX11 7NW
All profits to the fund
