Institution news
Did you know that that the IMechE has an online collection of images which are free for non-commercial use in learning, teaching and research? High resolution images can be licenced for editorial and commercial uses via our partner Mary Evans.
The collection is formed from original materials held in the archive and historical book collection of the IMechE. The archive, which is open to all, charts the history of the Institution and of mechanical engineering. Railway engineering, manufacturing, power plant development and automobile development are particularly well represented through personal and company papers.
Malcolm Campbell’s 1935 land speed record attempt
The pictures in the online gallery cover topics from railway to manufacturing, from the late 1800s to the late 1900s. From works of art depicting Liverpool & Manchester Railway to images of Napier engines, design drawings of locomotives by David Joy and construction photographs of Isambard Kingdom Brunel's 'Great Eastern', the collection offers a wealth of visual and informative images.
The IMechE is currently supporting the BLOODHOUND project, an attempt to break the land speed record. The online collection includes historic images of past attempts to break the land speed record, and of other racing events.
Frederick Gordon Crosby was famous for his illustrations of racing cars in the 1930s, such as Malcolm Campbell and ‘Bluebird’ breaking the 300mph barrier in a British world first. Our Crosby images include a Delage car driven by Richard J Seaman at the Isle of Man, 1938.
Other images include this one of the first 24-hour endurance record attempt at Brooklands motor course in 1907.
First 24-hour endurance record attempt at Brooklands motor course in 1907
Three specially converted Napier cars drove the circuit, led by Selwyn Edge, an Australian-born British businessman and racing driver. Edge drove 1,581.74 miles at an average speed of 65.91 mph, beating the existing record by 486 miles.
Looking for gift ideas?
You can purchase a range of items from framed prints and posters to cushions and coasters that would make ideal Christmas presents via our partner Mary Evans.
The above image of first IMechE president George Stephenson’s Hetton colliery locomotive is available as a greeting card, placemat or even a jigsaw puzzle.