This model of a British steam locomotive was built by Reginald (Rex) Stanley York while he was an apprentice, possibly in Britain. The model was never finished. Mr York went on to become the Australian manager of the Superheater Co. of London and later managing director of Superheater Co. (Australia) for about 20 years. Just prior to his retirement, Mr York was the agent for Beyer Garratt locomotives. He died in 1952.

The model was donated to the Museum in 1967 in pieces. Almost all the model locomotives in the Museum's collection are complete but this one was neither finished nor assembled. Consequently, the pieces themselves are quite interesting as they show the various components of a steam locomotive including the wheels, frame, boiler and smoke box as well as its hidden components including the fire tubes in the boiler and the internal cylinders in the frame. The model also has a good provenance as its maker spent his working life involved in full-size steam locomotives in Australia.

Information provided by Mrs M.R.C. York in 1967 on Museum file 67/M93/1081

Margaret Simpson
Curator, Science, Technology & Industry
October 2009

The locomotive model was made by Reginald (Rex) Stanley York whilst an engineering apprentice.

This model was donated to the Museum by the model builder's widow, Marjorie R.C. York of Kirribilli, NSW, in 1967.

Locomotive model, steam, 4-4-0, British type, 4½ inch gauge, partly constructed, built by Reginald (Rex) Stanley York, [in England], 1880-1900

The model is in parts and comprises the driving wheels of 6½ inch (16.5 cm) in diameter, frame, boiler and smoke box.

Made: 1880 - 1900

B1652

1880 - 1900