Streamlined locomotives
of the world
LMS Beyer-Garratt 2-6-6-2T No. 4972 (built 1927)
used for mineral traffic between Toton and Brent Sidings
Beyer-Garratts and Beyer, Peacock & Co
These are some of the biggest most powerful locos ever built – very few were in service in the UK, namely the 33 2-6-0 0-6-2Ts of the LMS built in 1927-1930 and the 2-8-0 0-8-2T U1 class loco 2395 of the LNER, built in 1925.
Herbert William Garratt (1864-1913) patented an articulated loco that could negotiate sharp corners in 1907, and took the idea to Bayer, Peacock & Co of Gorton , Manchester. The first 2ft gauge loco went to Tasmania in 1909. The firm was founded by Charles Frederick Beyer (1813-1876) and Richard Peacock (1820-1889).
The name Beyer-Garratt was introduced in 1928 to distinguish these top locos from the competition. Beyer, Peacock also built steam trams for northern towns (including Bury) and a wonderful ahead-of-its-time steam turbine loco in 1926.
Back to the Beyer-Garratt page.