Who can honestly say that they have not been impressed with the sheer size and power of the steam locomotive, or the sleek lines and speed of the modern diesel or electric trains? From a distance they always look like model trains but close up, these monsters tower over us with their enormous size.

It is no wonder that so much time and effort has been put into restoring these older machines to their former glory. The steam locomotives occupy so much history in the development of our modern societies, that they deserve to be admired for what they helped us to achieve.

Many museums have been dedicated to preserving the original steam locomotives so that the youngsters of today can better appreciate an era that spanned almost 150 years. This was from the start of the 19^th century to the mid 1930’s when other types of engines such as diesel and electric slowly started to replace the steam engines.

The enthusiasm of many people all over the world has helped in the preservation and restoration of a large number of these older locomotives. Small railway museums have sprung up wherever a dedicated group of enthusiasts have got together, giving people in many places the opportunity to see something that would otherwise have just passed into history without a trace.

The National Railway Museum in York England was set up in the 1930’s with the objective of preserving and displaying the locomotives and rolling stock for future generations to see. Consequently they have  built up a very impressive collection over the past 80 years. This collection comprises over 100 locomotives and nearly 200 other items of rolling stock, and tells the story of the railway from the early 19th century to the present day.

As with many railway museums, their focus has been on collecting and displaying objects that reflect the impact railways have made on society, culture and technology, and to represent key human stories in railway history. As the costs of caring for collections are high, the museum is very selective about what items it acquires in order to make certain that they don’t end up with unwanted or duplicate stock.

One of the most famous British trains, The Flying Scotsman, is currently being restored and is due to be back in working track condition in 2011. It has taken since 2004 for all the funds to be acquired and the work to be completed by the dedicated staff at the museum. It is certain to become the star attraction of the already star studded museum.

It is these monsters of the track that are responsible for the millions of people worldwide who have become model railway enthusiasts. While the modern diesel and electric locomotives have a certain appeal, they will never replace the sheer power that the steam locomotives convey. Consequently,  as long as model trains are sought after, the vast majority sold will be the models  of the mighty steam locomotive.

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