Seventy Years of The Railway Series

Today marks 70 years since 22,500 copies of the first book of what was to become the Railway Series were released into the world. That first book, 'The Three Railway Engines', introduced us to Edward, Gordon, and Henry.

Although Thomas the Tank Engine may be the main character of today's stories he didn't join the team until a year later in 1946. Today is a very special day for the Railway Series, the Rev.W.Awdry and his son Christopher. 

Keep an eye on our blog for a post written by the Thomas the Tank Engine Man documentary producer Nicholas Jones. 

Until then you can enjoy our videos showing the original William Middleton illustrations alongside narration by the Rev.W.Awdry released in 1957. 

You can also head over to our Magazine Archive and read about the 50th Anniversary back in 1995.