Rails to the Seven Seas – How the railways made the “Gateway to the World” – The Modern Southampton Docks Story

Speaker – John Abbott    

This illustrated talk takes the audience on a “voyage of discovery” from 1840 to the present day. We learn how the “modern port of Southampton” was progressively developed by the railways to become the most important deep sea passenger port in the British Empire. On our voyage, we cover the dock infrastructure, port railway system, take a boat train ride from Waterloo to the Ocean Terminal, discover the military use of the port, the devastation of 1939-45, the flying boat era, 1960s decline and reinvention of the port based on cars, containers and cruises in the 21^st century. Finally, we will enjoy a few of the legendary liners that used the docks. A small exhibition will also accompany the talk.

All presentations are held in the Roundhouse lecture theatre commencing at 19.30 and finishing between 21.45 and 22.00. Doors open at 19.00.

Entry is via the Commercial entrance (electric gate), which is open between approximately 19.00 and 19.25 to allow a prompt start at 19.30.

Presentations are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise indicated.

Hot and cold drinks are available from the buffet before 19.30 and during the interval.

Admission is normally £3.00 for members and £5.00 for non-members.

Free parking on site.