Museum of Power Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Museum of Power
The museum building
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Location	Langford, Maldon
Type	Industrial
Key holdings	Steam pumping engine

The Museum of Power is an exciting place to visit in Langford, England. It is located inside an old building that used to be a water pumping station. This station was once part of the Southend Waterworks, which is now called Essex and Suffolk Water. The museum is easy to find on the B1019 road, which connects Maldon to Hatfield Peverel.

History of the Pumping Station
What You Can See at the Museum
See also

History of the Pumping Station

Building the Station

The Langford Pumping Station was built by two engineers, Thomas and Charles Hawksley. They worked on it between 1924 and 1927. The station officially opened in 1929. Its main job was to pump fresh, treated water using huge steam engines.

How it Worked

The station was designed to take water from three rivers: the Chelmer, Ter, and Blackwater. Water from these rivers would mix together in a small reservoir. Here, any dirt or mud would naturally settle to the bottom. After this, the water was pumped for cleaning and then pumped again to a large storage reservoir.

Changes Over Time

The steam engines worked hard until October 31, 1963. On that day, electric pumps took over the job. Because they were no longer needed, two of the three original steam engines were taken apart and scrapped. The tall, eight-sided chimney was also pulled down in 1966.

Protecting the Past

Even though some parts were removed, the main pump house buildings and the last remaining engine were saved. In 1986, they were declared scheduled monuments. This means they are important historical sites that need to be protected. In 2012, they also received special recognition from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. This happened because the museum brought the remaining steam engine back to life.

What You Can See at the Museum

A steam engine at the museum

The Famous "Marshall" Engine

The museum's volunteers have done an amazing job restoring the last surviving steam engine, named Marshall. This giant engine and its pump system were brought back to working condition in 2011. Today, the museum operates the pump six days each year, so visitors can see it in action.

The "Marshall" engine was built in 1931 by the Lilleshall Company in Oakengates, Shropshire. It is a special type of steam engine called a triple-expansion engine. Museum experts have found that "Marshall" was the very last triple-expansion engine built by the Lilleshall Company. It is also the only one of its kind in the UK that is still in its original location with its original pumps.

Fun Rides and Displays

The Museum of Power offers more than just big engines! You can ride the Langford and Beeleigh Miniature Railway. This small train takes passengers on a fun trip around the museum grounds. The museum is also home to Astaria, which is the only model village in Essex. It's like a tiny town with miniature buildings and scenes.

Exciting Events

The museum hosts many big events throughout the year. These include the Easter Transport Fest, where you can see all sorts of vehicles. There's also a Classic Vehicle & Vintage Show, an American Car Show, and a Bike Meet. These events bring in many cool old cars, motorbikes, and custom vehicles for everyone to enjoy. Every September, the museum also hosts Essex's main steampunk event, which is a unique and creative gathering.

Museum of Power facts for kids

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