George Stephenson

George Stephenson was born in Wylam, Northumberland. He was the second child in his family. His parents, Robert and Mabel Stephenson could neither read nor write. Robert worked as a fireman at Wylam Colliery's pumping engine and earned a little, so he couldn't afford to go to school. Stephenson started working as an engineman at Water Row Pit in Newburn when he was 17 years old. George recognized the importance of education and began attending night school at the age of 18 to study reading, writing, and mathematics. He then rapidly showed remarkable technical talent.

Much of the modern railway system is directly influenced by George Stephenson's contributions to both civil and mechanical engineering. He envisioned a national network of lines with low gradients and a 'standard gauge.' He investigated routes, and developed and built structures that are still in use today. Due to his pioneering work, he is renowned as the "Father of the Railways.

Born: 9 June, 1781

Died: 12 August 1848 (aged 67)

Inventions: killingworth locomotives, steam locomotive, my lord, Stephenson's Rocket, ...