The Hull & Barnsley Railway Vol 1

Although the main line route of the Hull & Barnsley Railway plus its associated branches enjoyed a relatively short independent operational life of just thirty-seven years from 1885 until 1922, its importance as a 55-mile conduit from the collieries of South Yorkshire to the Humber was key to the future development of the port of Hull. This volume traces the formation and early years of the company, its struggles to carve out its own share of the lucrative coal traffic and its fight against the competition and intrigues offered by its powerful neighbours – notably the North Eastern Railway and its ally, the Hull Dock Company. Against a background of strong local passions within Hull, and numerous cloak-and-dagger manoeuvres from its competitors to bring about its extinction, it was a miracle the H&BR managed to survive – indeed, it was brought to its knees more than once and amalgamation seemed to offer the only way out. That it not only survived but later went on to achieve a settled existence and regularly paid a worthwhile dividend to its shareholders says much for the fortitude and strength of character possessed by its servants. This profusely illustrated narrative also describes the H&BR’s ‘way and works’, including the company’s ‘jewel in the crown’ that was Alexandra Dock, the diverse personalities involved with its management and also chapters describing the company’s motive power and rolling stock.

The Hull & Barnsley Railway Vol 1 - Sample Images