Remember that the Isle of Man Railway once moved freight as well as passengers. That is why the Goods Shed exists. It played a vital role in the island’s economy.
The Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters’ Association undertook the full restoration of Goods Van G.1. It was built in 1872. The Metropolitan Carriage and Wagon Co. Ltd. of Birmingham built it. It was part of the first batch of rolling stock. They delivered it for the opening of the Peel Line in 1873.
The restoration aimed to use the van on the steam railway. It would be for demonstration purposes on special event days. It would also be used for photographic charters and to promote Manx transport heritage. It could be displayed in the Railway Museum at Port Erin.
The restoration project faced challenges. The timber framing had deteriorated. Many iron fixings and fittings were severely rusted. Major work was needed to ensure its survival. The Supporters’ Association raised funds. Volunteers contributed to project planning and management. They also provided technical drawing, recording, finish preparation and painting services. They sourced parts and materials. They assisted with dismantling and re-assembly. The Association contracted out joinery, metal fabrication and component machining to local Manx businesses.
Railways on the Isle of Man were important for freight and passengers. They transported goods, livestock, and materials across the Island. This contributed to the expansion of towns and villages. It also boosted tourism, agriculture, fishing, mining and manufacturing.
Goods Van G.1 arrived in early 1873. It predates Locomotive No.1 ‘Sutherland’. It is the oldest surviving piece of railway rolling stock on the Isle of Man. It was used by contractors during the construction of the line.
The original specifications stated it would be a “Covered Goods Wagon capable of being used as Third Class Carriage”. But the order was amended for goods-only vehicles. Early covered goods wagons carried up to six tons. The first nine goods vans were similar in design. They had rudimentary handbrakes. Suspension was initially by rubber blocks. This was replaced with coil spring suspension. Later, leaf spring suspension was fitted.
The original livery was a pale grey. Metal fixtures and fittings were painted black. The arched roof was covered with heavy linen cloth. After 1876, an improved rolling stock identification system was introduced. Goods Vans were allocated the letter prefix ‘G’. This identification was painted on each side of the vehicle.
Covered goods wagons were purchased for perishable items. They transported fish, meat, dairy products, grain, royal mail, parcels, and livestock. There were nineteen goods vans in total. They fell into three main types. G.1 was an original type. Gr.10-Gr.14 were inherited from the Manx Northern Railway. G.15-G.19 were built by the Railway Company itself.
G.1 remained in regular use until 1968. It was retained by the Railway Company. It was used as a permanent way department mobile store and mess room until 1989. After being stored in the open, the timber deteriorated.
Today, the Goods Shed stands as a testament to the Isle of Man’s railway heritage. It shows the importance of goods transportation. It also highlights the dedication to preserving history.