To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825, Cleveland & Teesside Local History Society and the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway collaborated to fund a prize essay competition.
After careful consideration of the essays submitted, a winner has been announced: Gillian Bryant for her essay ‘Be It Remembered – William Lister, Iron Founder and Engine Builder (1785-1850)’.
The aim of the competition was to add to our historical knowledge and understanding of the S&DR, through original research on any subject connected to the history of the Stockton & Darlington Railway up to 1863, including its impact beyond that date.
Gillian’s research certainly fulfilled these expectations, revealing the story of a man who was instrumental in building several locomotives for the Stockton & Darlington Railway, and exploring the competition that existed between rival iron foundries and engine builders.
Commenting on the winning essay, Caroline Hardie, of the Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway said ‘Gillian’s research has shone a light on to one of the less well-known individuals associated with the S&DR. The range of primary sources she used was incredibly wide including local, regional and national archives, supported by secondary sources to provide background context.’
On behalf of Cleveland & Teesside Local History Society, John Little said, ‘The competition attracted several entries, and we are grateful to everyone who took the time to research, write and submit entries’.
John added, ‘It was a difficult, but enjoyable, task for the judges to read the breadth of research undertaken, but we were unanimous as to the winning essay’.
The prize of £1,000 was provided jointly by Cleveland & Teesside Local History Society and The Friends of the Stockton & Darlington Railway.
