Sea Lion, Steam tank locomotive in Groudle Glen, Isle of Man
Sea Lion is a steam tank locomotive on the narrow-gauge railway at Groudle Glen, featuring a distinctive 2-4-0T wheel arrangement and two operating cylinders. After receiving a new boiler in 2003, it was painted in Brunswick green to match its 1920s appearance.
Built by W.G. Bagnall in 1896, this locomotive was the railway's only engine until Polar Bear arrived in 1905. It marks the start of mechanized service on this historic line.
The locomotive was restored with help from apprentices in the local nuclear industry, showing how the community valued preserving historical machines. Today it stands as a symbol of craftsmanship and industrial heritage on the island.
The locomotive operates during regular passenger service at Groudle Glen Railway and can be seen in action on the narrow tracks. The sloped terrain and close proximity to the railway require careful footing when viewing or photographing the machine.
The locomotive's name connects the railway to the island's wildlife and maritime heritage in an unexpected way. It shows how early railway operators wove local geography and nature into their machine names.
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