a very old film showing the world famous Vulcan Works which was originally a foundry producing girders for bridges and buildings in 1832. In 1847 it became The Vulcan Foundry, named after the Roman God of Fire, they were based at Newton-le-Willows in Lancashire. They began the production of heavy locomotives for both domestic and International rail companies from this factory and were world famous for their engines for over 100 years - they closed in 2002...

1st view. the erecting shop taken from the overhead gantry crane. the locomotives with the headlights were for African and Indian countries. Egypt Railways and Iran Railways all had locomotives from the Vulcan Works.

2nd view. final year apprentices checking and gaining instruction on a finished locomotive that is being tested prior to leaving the workshop.

3rd view. a completed engine in steam being road tested within the factory confines to check everything is working under pressure before releasing it to the docks for onward transport to the docks and beyond.

4th view. VIP's visit to the works which unusually included smartly dressed ladies amongst the guests.

5th view. prototypes of the company's new range of diesel engines and small diesel shunters/switchers.

6th view magnificent solid tyred steam driven road going lorry/truck. ('lorry' is an old english word associated with vehicles traditionally called trucks elsewhere. It is thought it orinated from the verb 'to lurry' or 'lurghy' meaning to move or transport or similar) this lorry is bringing out a completed locomotive for road transport to the docks.

the film is dated early 1900's so allowances can be made for it's poor quality.