Minimum Gauge Railways

"Minimum Gauge Railways" by Sir Arthur Percival Heywood is a technical account concerning the application, construction, and operation of narrow gauge railways written in the late 19th century. The book details the author's experiments with a 15-inch gauge railway at Duffield Bank, near Derby, and provides insights into the engineering principles and practicalities involved in constructing such lines. It aims to offer a reliable examination of their utility in transport, especially for light traffic where traditional railways may be too costly. The opening of the work begins with a preface by the author, detailing his motivations for creating a pamphlet that outlines his experiences and work related to narrow gauge railways. Heywood shares his journey from a young boy fascinated by machines to a self-taught mechanic who has spent years perfecting designs for small locomotives and rail systems. He emphasizes the need for innovation in railway design, particularly for smaller gauges, and sets the stage for his detailed examination of the specific lines he constructed, including those at Duffield and Eaton Hall. The opening focuses on defining the objectives behind the 15-inch gauge, acknowledging the unique conditions and considerations that distinguish narrow gauge railways from standard ones.