The Duchess

The 'Duchess', in both its streamlined and non-streamlined forms, was arguably one of the most striking - and also the most powerful and efficient - passenger locomotives ever built. It demonstrated the particular genius of Sir William Stanier, its designer, and came to have a strong influence on succeeding locomotive designs of the 1950s.This definitive book fully describes the 'Duchess' class. It shows how it evolved, and discusses the specific requirements of the LMSR for a new west coast, main line express locomotive. Information from the locomotive's designers, draughtsmen and Sir William Stanier himself enables a complete picture to be drawn of the complexities of the engine's design. The author also describes the difficulties of construction. The operational life of the 'Duchess' is considered, and contemporary comments from drivers, crewmen and those who worked on the locomotive in the shed are included. Modifications to the design and its change of service with the coming of British Rail, and its demise in competition with other BR standard classes are also covered.Appendices include full details of each locomotive, its name and number, build date, colours, and differences in design, and the location of preserved 'Duchess' locomotives. The book includes a wealth of contemporary photographs and engineering drawings, many of which have not been published before, and will appeal to anyone with an interest in this most elegant of steam locomotives.