Locomotive at the Finnish General Exhibition of 1876
In 1876, amidst the excitement of the Finnish General Exhibition in Helsinki, Finland proudly showcased its second locomotive. Crafted under the guidance of engineer Carl Petter Engström, this steam-powered vehicle made its way toward the exhibition at a slow pace as the rail had to be laid in front of the train, then picked up and re-laid after it had progressed forward, causing many in the streets to stop and watch its progress.
The locomotive compartments boasted handsome interiors, featuring passageways, mail delivery rooms, and comfortable accommodations for postmen. Engström's leadership extended beyond the workshop; he was a staunch advocate for the well-being and professional growth of the locomotive crew, ensuring their welfare amidst the rigours of railway operation.
The locomotive was displayed in the machine room of the exhibition, where visitors also encountered a diverse array of machinery from across the country's factories and foundries. Alongside these industrial wonders, the corridors teemed with products from ironworks, showcasing ores, sheet iron, and intricate machinery. Notable among them were Fiskars, Dalsbruk, Huutokoski, Värtsilä, and Kellokoski ironworks.
Information gathered from Kaisa Kyläkoski’s blog Sukututkijan Loppuvuosi.
Original Photograph
Click image to enlarge
Restored Photograph
Click image to enlarge
Photo Information
Original photo courtesy of the Finnish Heritage Agency
Photographer: Charles Riis
Year: 1876
Link to original photo here
Copyright 2023 The Photo Record. All rights reserved. All digitally restored photographs and contents of this article may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the owner.
