Transport Curiosities, 1850 – 1950

Every so often a book comes along that is different from the norm and might not be picked up by the average reader of this magazine, but which merits a look – Transport Curiosities is just such an example.

The premise is simple, the author has taken the four major methods of propelled travel – by track, land, over and under water and by air, and looked for the more unusual examples of machinery produced to meet the needs of travellers. He’s certainly found plenty to write about.

The rail section starts the book and is the largest category, beginning with propeller-driven trains, several of these on overhead lines and of course including the famed Zeppelin machines tried between the world wars. Pneumatic and atmospheric railways are of course included, before moving onto such oddities as the first ‘Daddy Long Legs’ Volk’s Electric Railway.

The section on road transport includes plenty on electric cars, which are a lot older than many might believe, while the book continues with a litany of unusual and in places frankly insane creations – especially in the air section where one feels much bravery, or foolhardiness, would have been needed to travel in such machines.

What really makes the book, however, are the illustrations – they are plentiful, and almost entirely consist of contemporary engraving-type images which are very finely detailed and a pleasure to look at. This is an unusual title but we feel many will enjoy reading it.

ISBN 9781 39900 397 1 Price £20.00 Published by Pen & Sword Transport Email: enquiries@pen-and-sword.co.uk Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk