Dartmouth Museum has been chosen to house a permanent exhibition of David Hulse’s world renowned collection of miniature atmospheric steam engines.

David has spent the last 30 years building working models of the engines that powered Britain’s industrial revolution, and until now they were displayed at his house.

David said: “I have been looking for a place to exhibit these machines, and am delighted that they have found a home in Dartmouth, where Thomas Newcomen, who developed the first commercially viable atmospheric steam engine lived and worked.”

The eight model engines travelled down from David’s home in Stone, Wolverhampton last week and arrived in Dartmouth on Wednesday.

They were lifted into the Museum by crane that hoisted them up to the third floor, where they will be displayed as part of a new exhibition: Dartmouth and the Evolution of Steam.

Spencer Wigley, Chair of the Museum said: “David has created a world class collection of working models of the steam engines that arguably fired the start of the Industrial Revolution.

Visitors from round the world are expected to visit Dartmouth to study them.

As custodians of the history of Thomas Newcomen’s birthplace, we are delighted to bring to life his impact on the world.”

Mike Rowley, Project Manager, added: “These engines are the foundation of our new exhibition that focuses on Dartmouth and the evolution of steam power.

It opens in October, so watch this space for more details!”

You can see a video of David talking about his engines here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7Bdhyo6P5g