Model Stationary Steam Engines and Antiquarian Engineering Books

The collection was started in the 1960s by a steam engine enthusiast, who also designed and built model stationary steam engines. During this time, there were few sources of detailed information freely available on the subject, as most libraries did not carry much on the history of engineering. This led to the accumulation of the antiquarian books, alongside the acquisition and the construction of models. In more recent years, the time has come to disperse the collection for others to appreciate.
Included in the auction is a 19th century model of an A-framed condensing steam beam engine, circa 1850, carrying a pre-sale estimate of £3,000, as well as a model of a horizontal twin cylinder reversing steam engine, 19th century, carrying a pre-sale estimate of £450. Notably, some of the engines in the collection were purchased in the 1970’s directly from the renowned engineer and conservationist, Jonathan Minns.

Most of the models have been fitted with modern screwed unions so that they may be run from an external supply of compressed air, or steam from an external boiler.

It is worth noting that the models in the sale are not those built by the collector.