David Riches will present the story of Weymouth’s railways. This begins with the incorporation of the Wilts, Somerset & Weymouth Railway in 1845 and the commencement of the line that eventually arrived in Weymouth in 1857. Starting with Weymouth station itself the story of each of Weymouth’s lines is told via a series of photographs and occasional maps, including features less usually described such as the engine sheds. Moving on from the station the first line shown is the main line towards Dorchester, with a brief mention of the Abbotsbury branch. This is followed by the lines to Portland and Weymouth Quay. The talk finishes with a selection of photographs taken in more recent times.
Following early retirement in 1997, David was a museum volunteer from 2000 until 2023, and Collection Manager from 2011 to 2022. He is a former member of Weymouth Museum Trust and a former Chair of the Friends. His interests include local & transport history; modelling steam engines and railways; collecting antique scientific instruments; photography (especially transport and wild life).
The talk will be held in Hope United Reformed Church at 8 Trinity Street. Doors open at 2.00 pm and the talk will start at 2.30pm.
Tickets will be available on the door and are £2.00 for members of the Friends and £3.00 for visitors. (Exact change would be appreciated, if possible).
