FAMOUS ENGINEER

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 91, 11 January 1935, Page 8

FAMOUS ENGINEER

Designer of “Royal Scot” in

Wellington

SIR HENRY FOWLER, K.B.E.

One of the foremost mechanical engineers in the world passed through Wellington yesterday. This was Sir Henry Fowler, for many years chief mechanical engineer of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Company, and the distinguished designer of that famous engine the “Royal Scot,” which from an engineering point of view was considered such a remarkable product that it was sent over to the Chicago Exhibition as representative of the finest workmanship in locomotive engineering, and proved itself worthy of the attention it was given by its exploits on American tracks. Sir Henry Fowler, who lias the natural modesty of most great engineers, said that his engine, the “Royal Scot,” which was employed over the LoudonCarlisle section of the main line to Glasgow, made it clear that this locomotive was not so remarkable perhaps for its speed, but more so for its economy in running at certain speeds with certain loads. He had managed to design an engine which could pull the weight of one ton a distance of one mile ou a coal consumption of one ounce. He had been the recipient of many compliments over the designing of the “Royal Scot,” the virtues of which were its simplicity in design plus its economy in working cost. Looking baek, Sir Henry thought he preferred the comment of an eminent

Scottish engineer, who wrote him that it was “just an engine.” That did not sound very much, nor was it very flowery, but there was that in it which conveyed a good deal to the designer. It was the Scot’s way of expressing what the Americans said when they declared it to be “some engine.” Sir Henry Fowler was connected with the Midland and, later the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Companies for 45 years, and his term of service only terminated two years ago, when he retired on pension. After the death of his wife his health had broken down, and he had been ordered a long sea voyage. He now felt that though he was not yet quite himself, his health had improved by the changes of air and scene. He had come out to Sydney by way of Suez, and after a look at New Zealand ho intends to return Home by the Rangitata, leaving Auckland on January 18. He left last evening on a visit to Christchurch, but will return to-morrow, and will then go north to visit Taupo and Rotorua before returning to Auckland. , On his way through the North Island, Sir Henry visited the Waitomo Caves. He considered the glow-worm cave to be one of the most wonderful sights of its kind in the world, and well worth visiting by every visitor to the country.