Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
To the best of my knowledge, this is left over from the earliest days of the horse-powered mine railways over here - the first steam locos were built for these, and when the lines expanded (geographically) they kept the gauge. There was an attempt to set it wider (I K Brunel's "Broad Gauge" - 7' 0 1/4) but it didn't last long - the lack of compatibility resulted in massive problems at junctions so the Broad Gauge GWR lines were eventually all relaid to 4' 8 1/2. <br /> <br />Why it is so precise I don't know - I've always been puzzled by one narrow gauge line near me, while a large number of other railways in the area were built to 2ft gauge (North Wales slate hauling lines - many now open for tourists), the Corris railway was built to 1ft 11 1/2 - why they didn't just go for 2ft like everyone else around them has puzzled me for years! <br />
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!