New NRM exhibition showcases unique objects of royal train travel
THE National Railway Museum has launched a new temporary exhibition, called Royals on Rails, to mark the jubilee.
Running in the York museum’s Highlights Gallery, which overlooks the Great Hall, the exhibition features a selection of unique objects from its collection with a royal connection and runs until September 4.
It includes a programme of royal-themed activities, such as conservation demonstrations and family activities, during which visitors can learn about how the UK’s railways have changed during The Queen’s 70-year reign.
It also includes a specially commissioned film which explores the link between royal patronage and the development of the railways, and gives visitors a glimpse inside the museum’s collection of royal carriages.
The six royal carriages on permanent display in Station Hall include Queen Victoria’s grand 1869 saloon and one of Queen Elizabeth’s former carriages from the Royal Train. Built during the Second World War, this was designed to give maximum protection to its royal occupants. King George VI and his daughter frequently travelled around the country to boost morale. To keep them safe on their journeys, the carriage was fitted with armour plating and shutters over the windows.
From 1952, the carriage became The Queen’s personal saloon before being replaced in 1977, when it joined the museum collection.
Exhibitions project manager Liv Mills said: “The continued use of rail travel by the royal family marked a growing shift towards how we imagine the monarchy – visible, ceremonial, and travelling in luxury.”
A version of the exhibition film is available to view at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=IybrQMbAhgQ&t=780s