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From the History of Railways

Stephenson not only constructed, the world's first steam locomotive but he was also the builder of the first public railway in England. This railway used both steam and horses as tractive power. This railway was a success, and later he built another railway, now steam-powered.

It is difficult for the people living in the beginning of the 21 century to imagine the opposition to the building of the early railroads. Most people did not believe that it was possible to make locomotives suitable for service. Many of them were afraid of the railways when they first appeared and did all in their power to stop railway construction. However, in 1824 the steam powered railways were already in wide use in England.

In Russia, many people also had doubts about the possibility of using-steam engines in the Russian winter. Nevertheless, the first railway using steam traction was put into service at the Nizni Tagil metallurgical works. It was a short distance line covering only 854 metres. Soon a 15 mile public railway was built between St. Petersburg and Tsarskoye Selo.

The first steam locomotive in Russia was built by the Gherepanovs, father and son, who were talented and skilled workmen of their time. Thanks to them our country may be placed among the countries which were the first to use steam as tractive power.

Many changes took place on railways. Still greater changes will take place in the future. We will run more powerful locomotives and have more comfortable cars. Diesel and electric locomotives will develop greater speeds. A great number of other developments will be introduced.

Vocabulary Notes

to be a success – иметь успех tractive power – тяговое усилие, тяга

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