Dyfrdwy Tramway: Tired but not out...

This postcard view of the Dyfrdwy Tramway, probably taken around 1950 shows the Hudson Hunslet passing the site of the original cutting mill...

The train consists of gunpowder van, number 10, which had been built upon one of the slate wagon chassis and top, modified to not lift off, and with a roof and hinged upper sides. The ubiquitous braked skip chassis provides a platform for the driver's dog and some lubrication oil. Even at this late stage road access to the quarry was problematic, the muddy track impassable in winter and a rutted mess in the summer, meaning the tramway continued to be the preferred method for transporting all materials too and from the site until it's closure. If you've read my article in this months Garden Rail you will be able to fill in a little more of the history, if not, go see if you van pick up a copy in your newsagents. In the meantime, more soon...