Heritage Railways Trust – 9.5 Inch Gauge is excited to announce the acquisition of an extraordinary collection of 1/4.4th scale miniature locomotives from South Africa. This rare collection, featuring models of iconic locomotives such as the GCA Garratt, 15F, and Class 91, has recently been imported to the UK and transferred to the Trust under a special trust arrangement.
This collection holds immense historical significance, not only because of the rarity of the 9.5-inch gauge in the miniature railway world, but also because of its important link between South Africa and the UK’s shared railway heritage. Each of these locomotives represents a unique piece of South African railway history, expertly modelled to reflect the original engines that once powered the railways of the country.
The Heritage Railways Trust is committed to restoring these locomotives to their original glory, making them operational for public enjoyment and display. This effort will not only preserve a rare piece of railway history but also serve as an educational platform to teach visitors about the technical achievements in both miniature and full-scale railways. Our goal is to foster an appreciation for the engineering brilliance that these locomotives represent, and the cultural ties they highlight between South Africa and the UK.
Learn More!
To learn more about this collection and our restoration efforts, download our new brochure. The brochure offers detailed insights into the locomotives, their history, and our plans to preserve, restore, and showcase them for the public. You can find it available for download at the link below.
We invite railway enthusiasts, historians, and the general public to get involved by supporting our efforts, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply sharing the story of this remarkable collection.
Stay tuned for updates on the restoration process, public viewing opportunities, and events where these magnificent locomotives will be running once again.