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Why Now Is A Great Time To Learn About London Underground’s History
I was travelling on the Tube the other day with some friends, we were faced with crowds of commuters on the southbound Victoria line platform. So instead of fretting or take another route, it seemed a good idea to observe the platform’s adverts and the mood of other passengers while waiting for the train. I immediately stumbled upon a notice board that shared some of London underground’s history. Here is a short post about why now is a great time to learn about London Underground’s history.
EMERGENCY LONDON UNDERGROUND HISTORY
Our heritage Trains. London Underground is the oldest metro system in the world and has a history of innovation in train design and engineering.
The Underground first opened in 1863
“When the Underground first opened in 1863, It relied on steam trains to pull its carriages – a system used by some parts of the network until the 1960’s. Electricity was first used to power trains in 1890, and soon became the standard on our network.
Other innovations of the Underground included the design of our 1938 stock, which moved equipment from behind the cab to spaces throughout the train to create more room for passengers. In 1968, the Victoria line was the first in the world to use automatic train operation. Today, our trains are equipped with elements like regenerative braking, which recycles energy back into the operation of the train.”
London Transport Museum
“Find out more at www.ltmuseum.co.uk Below left an early electric powered train was photographed outside Moorgate station in 1922 Below right This photo from 1958 at Piccadilly Circus station shows the pioneering 1938 deep tube train Right Despite its sign the 1971 steam train run from Barbican to Neasden was not the last on the Underground: steam trains will continue to run on special heritage trips 1922.”
This photo shows the last steam train on the Underground in 1971. Isn’t it fascinating to learn how the Tube trains have evolved from steam trains to electric over the years?
Have you stumbled upon notice board that have shared some of London Underground’s history?
You can easily spot them around the platforms. Check them out and drop me a line or two as always about what you have learned.
You definitely captured our attention with this unique history. Who knew that the London underground has such a rich past? To think that it was around 100 years before we were even born.
That’s so amazing. I didn’t even think that it was around 100 years before we were even born. Glad you enjoyed.
Very interesting, Bola! I’ve ridden the Underground several times and it always takes me awhile to get used to it and “minding the gap!” Would love to return and rediscover.
Hopefully when travel opens up again you’ll have a chance to return and rediscover 🙂
That’s so interesting! I can’t imagine what it must have been like having all the steam underground!
That’s just crossed my mind. Pollution must have been at an all time high back in those days!