Fell Engine Museum

The Fell Locomotive Museum in Featherston, New Zealand, exhibits the only remaining Steam Powered Fell railway locomotive in the world.Locomotive H 199 climbed up the 4.8km Rimutaka Incline using John Barraclough Fell's unique method of four grip wheels on a raised centre rail. It is housed and tended to by a group of dedicated rail enthusiasts.H 199 is one of six H class locomotives designed for use on the 1 in 15 Rimutaka Incline, where they worked for 77 years. Their story is recalled by audio-visual programmes, models, photographs and memorabilia in the museum.From its humble beginnings, the Fell Locomotive Museum has grown to be a world recognised tourist attraction.HistoryAt the official opening ceremony for the Rimutaka Tunnel on 3 November 1955 at Speedy’s Crossing, the Minister for Railways, Mr McAlpine, presented H 199 to the Borough of Featherston for display. After H 199 completed its duties on the demolition trains removing the Incline track it was towed to Hutt Workshops where it was stored until August 1958, when it was towed to Featherston and mounted on a plinth in a playground for children to play on.In 1980, it became obvious that despite the locomotive was deteriorating through age and exposure to the elements. The Friends of the Fell Society was formed with the objective of preserving and housing it. Restoration work commenced in 1981, and proceeded as volunteer labour was available. During the restoration work, the museum was constructed across the main road and next to the town’s old courthouse.