Brunel's model shows one of the earliest GWR wagon designs

This modest working model of a Great Western Railway (GWR) tip wagon, reputedly once owned by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is on display near reception at the IMechE HQ One Birdcage Walk.

Dating from the 1840s, the model is based on one of the earliest GWR wagon designs. The open wagon consists of four wheels, one side plank and two drop-down doors – one on each of its long sides.  

These wagons would have been used for transporting minerals among other materials that could remain open to the elements.

The model wagon was bequeathed to the Institution of Mechanical Engineers by past president Sir William Stanier who, having completed his engineering apprenticeship with GWR, continued to work there for over 40 years. Although Sir William himself was too young to have worked alongside Brunel, his father was at GWR during the same period as the famous engineer. Although we cannot say for certain, this may provide an explanation for the link between the model, Brunel, Sir William and the institution.

A 3D version of the model wagon can be seen online here: https://archives.imeche.org/archive/artefacts