The Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club is arranging a special appearance of a historic steam engine at the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show this Saturday, September 14th.
This impressive machine, weighing approximately 20 tonnes, was manufactured by Aveling & Porter, England and was used by Dublin County Council from the 1930s to the 1950s. It is owned by Gerry Bratton from Killoe, Co Longford. Mr Bratton spent the years between 2006 and 2014 restoring it to its original condition. Also on show will be the water cart that accompanied the steam engine to supply water for the boiler. It is 150 years old.
The steam engine will be transported on a specially modified carrier to Church Street, where it will be carefully unloaded and driven through the town to the grounds of Strokestown Park House.
The engine is powered by a coal-burning furnace that heats water to produce steam, which then drives the pistons.
The steam engine will be on display at the vintage exhibit throughout the day. In addition to the steam engine, the Mid-Roscommon Vintage Club will showcase a variety of tractors, cars, and machinery.
