Discover the captivating history of the Mount Somers Tramway, which operated from 1887 to 1943 in Mid Canterbury, New Zealand. This expertly crafted book delves into a pivotal era when motorcars were yet to revolutionize transport, and railways were the backbone of freight transport. The Mount Somers Tramway was instrumental in transporting mineral wealth from the Ashburton Gorge, an area celebrated for its geological diversity. This historical account chronicles the tramway's unspectacular rise and inevitable fall, reflecting the initiative and determination of its promoters over a significant fifty-year period. With 200 pages filled with over 180 stunning colour and monochrome photographs, graphics, and local history insights, this book is a must-have for enthusiasts of New Zealand's railway heritage. The story of the Mount Somers Tramway is deeply intertwined with the rich tapestry of local history, ensuring that its legacy is preserved for future generations. As the physical remnants of the tramway fade into obscurity, this book aims to highlight its contribution to New Zealand's railway history and secure its rightful place in the annals of local memory. Perfect for history buffs and railway enthusiasts alike, this soft laminated cover book is an essential addition to your collection of New Zealand history books. Order now to uncover the untold stories of the Mount Somers Tramway.

The Mount Somers Tramway was conceived in a period of time when the motorcar was unknown, good roads were scarce and railways as a form of mechanical transport had the field largely to themselves. The pages within tell the story of its unspectacular rise and fall, a story closely... integrated for fifty years with the course of local history. The tramway reflects the initiative, enterprise and determination of its promoters to reduce the cost of conveying the mineral wealth from the Ashburton Gorge, an area of great geological interest - to the Mount Somers railway station for trans-shipment to Ashburton and beyond. As the remains of the Mount Somers Tramway are now largely effaced, it is hoped that this book will help to ensure that it's modest contribution to New Zealand railway history is not entirely forgotten; and it's significant role in local history given proper recognition. 200 pages, soft laminated cover. Over 180 colour and monochrome photographs and graphics.Read less