WRRC Forum

I have recently been exploring the Ordnance Survey, 1:2500 maps of the late 1800's & early 1900's [that are currently available via http://www.old-maps.co.uk] looking at Railways, Tramways & Mineral Railways in the Swansea & Gower area.

• My Question is: What is Ordnance Survey's definition of (difference between): a Tramway and a Mineral Railway.

I have tried to search the O. S. website, but am not convinced that definitions are there to be found.

My instinct suggests that a Tramway could relate to a narrow gauge track, whilst a mineral railway could relate to a standard gauge (4' 8½") track.

Whilst looking at the Mineral Railway from Cenfgyfelach Colliery, northwards to (the former) Llangyfelach station I spotted the endorsement 3ft R.H. (see here), I haven't seen this abbreviation on any other Mineral Railway, nor Tramway, neither can I find any reference to the abbreviation R.H. on the O. S. website. Are there any thoughts as to what this abbreviation might mean?

I don't think that the 3ft RH marking is associated with the railway, it's elsewhere on the map away from the line. Apparently (so my orienteering mate tells me) it denotes a boundary 3 feet from the root of the hedge.


Rod

Hello Rod,

.. .. .. .. it denotes a boundary 3 feet from the root of the hedge.
Well that's something that I'd completely missed! Thank you.

I await with interest any further replies on the definitions/ application of the terms Tramway & Mineral Railway on Ordnance Survey maps in general.

Thanks