Foden: TT 8659
Note: This is a sub-section of Foden.
1926. D-type Tractor. Island Chief. No. 12370. Reg No: TT 8659
New to Arthur Kirby of Newton Abbot Sawmills, Devon on 22nd July 1926.
This engine was on eof the first to incorporate a tapered rear water tank, which gave better rear view vision for the driver. It also had a third gear, a shortened cab, enclosed sides to protect the driver and a toolbox platform on either side of the engine. During the ongoing restoration the cab sides, tool box and platform have been re-made and fitted.
There is also a winding bollard fitted to the back axle.
Extensive restoration work has taken place over the last few years, and while repainting, the sign writing showing the original owner was uncovered. The signwriting on the cab has been reproduced from a photograph of the engine taken while in the ownership of Arthur Kirby.
After Mr. A. Kirby, the engine was sold to the Sussex Showman, P. Harris and Son of Ashington, Don Eastwood of Kent then Commander John Baldock of Hollycombe. While in Hollycombe it was included in the Hollycombe Steam Collection.
By 1986 it had been sold to Charlie Russell of St. Marybourne, Hampshire.
It was purchased by the present owners, Clare and Robert Bullen and Richard Lucas of Wiltshire, in 1996.
The engine is now presented in the livery of its first owner, Arthur Kirby.[1]
See Also
Sources of Information
- ↑ Boconnoc Steam Fair Programme, 2011.