Traction Engines

For a century traction engines represented amongst the most powerful vehicles seen on Britain’s roads and were capable of handling a wide range of work – from steamrollers assisting in road maintenance to towing vehicles bringing circuses and fun fairs to towns and cities nationwide.

Aveling & Porter of Rochester, John Fowler of Leeds and Charles Burrell & Sons of Thetford dominated the business and their products were rightly seen as amongst the finest examples of engineering. Using over 100 images, the history of these colourful and dramatic engines is brought to life.