Fred Dibnah's Age of Steam

"From a very young age, Fred Dibnah has harboured a passion for steam-powered machines and has spent a large part of his life studying their construction and history. Here, in Fred Dibnah's Age of Steam, he draws on his extensive knowledge to create a fascinating insight into this unique form of power and the characters that helped bring it to life." "Beginning with the invention of steam power, Fred takes us on a remarkable journey to discover the fundamental part steam played in the industrial revolution. From farming to mining, printing and transport, he shows how steam power gradually penetrated almost every area of industry and even played a part in shaping our leisure hours. Along the way he introduces us to some of the great pioneers of steam. From James Watt to Richard Trevithick and from George and Robert Stephenson to Isambard Kingdom Brunel, Fred breathes life into these legendary characters and reveals the full genius of their achievements." "Moving into the present day, Fred explains how steam engines and turbines are still at the heart of many areas of industry all over the world. He also shows how steam power could be the solution to many of our environmental problems and even introduces us to the concept of steam-powered cars!" "Complete with a comprehensive list of steam-related sites to visit all over the UK, Fred Dibnah's Age of Steam is both a complete and compelling history of a romantic and versatile form of power and an essential souvenir for anyone who is fascinated by the wonderful world of steam."--BOOK JACKET.