Large Steam Show

We’re thrilled to announce a special reunion at this year’s Large Steam Show. The beloved Marshall Traction Engine, ‘Victoria, Empress of India’ and the Fowler Traction Engine, ‘Albert’ will be together again for the first time in 20 years, marking a historic moment for steam enthusiasts and historians alike.

Originally purchased in 1886 by Walter Seward to start his threshing and haulage business, ‘Victoria’ was later joined by ‘Albert’ in 1895 as part of the expanding fleet. The engines were integral to the business until the 1930s, after which they were carefully stored by James Seward, staying in the family’s possession until being sold in the late 1960s.

After 10 years apart and individual restorations, the engines were briefly reunited at the Brighton and Hove Engineerium in the early 1980s. They spent many years attending rallies across the South of England and became frequent highlights at Amberley Museum. In 2002, ‘Albert’ was sold and moved to France, while ‘Victoria’ returned close to her original home in Hampshire under the stewardship of Walter Seward’s descendants, Lloyd and Wendy Wakelin and their children.

In a twist of fate, following the passing of ‘Albert’s’ last owner in France, Lloyd and Wendy were given the opportunity to repurchase ‘Albert,’ bringing him back to the UK in April 2024. This reunion not only celebrates the engines’ storied histories but also signifies a permanent reunion under the care of the Seward family descendants.

Visitors to the Large Steam Show can expect a memorable display of steam power, craftsmanship, and heritage, as ‘Victoria’ and ‘Albert’ steam up together once again in a demonstration of enduring legacy and historical preservation.

The Large Steam Show promises to be a fantastic event with steam engine trailer rides, wood sawing demonstrations being carried out throughout the weekend and steam engines of all shapes and sizes moving around site. There will also be a bus service running as well as a steam service on the Museum railway.

At least 10 full size engines are attending as well as a smattering of miniature steam to help our younger visitors understand how steam engines work and being able to see the workings in a pocket size package.

Come and take in the sights and smells of working steam engines as the Museum transforms into a world of steam, smiles and whistles.

Please pre-book tickets to avoid disappointment.