Without doubt, whilst WW1 could theoretically have been fought without railways it would have been a very different war had that been the case. The movement of men, horses, equipment, weaponry and everything else that was needed was moved at some point in its travels by rail across the world. In addition the same applied to that which came away from the front, the wounded men invalided out, combatants going on leave. In addition to transport there were also armoured trains and vast railway guns. It is difficult to imagine the First World War without railways and Richard’s talk will shed even more light into this essential element of the conflict.
Richard Preston is historian and Western Front Association member who lives in Cumbria.
The meeting will take place at our usual venue, the Allotment Social Club, West Allotments and will commence at 7.45 for an 8pm start.
There will be a raffle as usual and entrance to the meeting is by donation of £4.