The Midland Railway was a major employer, with employees ranging from highly skilled to labourers. It offered training, progression through grades and secure employment, and in return employees were expected to show pride in and loyalty to the Company. It provided uniforms, tools and equipment, all of which were branded.
Midland Railway Guards Cap, pre-1923
Part of the uniform supplied to staff and showing the Midland Railway Wyvern crest and MR letters.
[RPYMR:2022.177]
Portrait of William Evans Hutchinson (1806 – 1882), Midland Railway Chairman (1864 – 1870). Painted by John Lucas R.A. and originally hung in the Board Room, Derby Station
William Hutchinson had been a Director of the Midland Railway since its formation in 1844 and prior to that in one of its predecessors, the Midland Counties Railway.
This full length portrait is over 2.5m high.
[RPYMR:2025.9]
MR Rule Book, 1920 issue
Every employee involved with train operations was issued with Rule Books. They were expected to know the contents and how it applied to their job.
This particular copy belonged to J W Bramwell. Rule Books were updated and re-issued periodically to reflect changing operating practices.
[RPYMR:1988.162.7]
Portrait of William Philip Price (1817 – 1891), Midland Railway Chairman (1870 -1873). Painted by John Lucas R.A. and originally hung in the Shareholders Room, Derby Station
In addition to his Directorship of the Midland Railway, William Price was a successful timber merchant and was Liberal politician who was an MP in two periods between 1852 and 1873.
Similar to William Evans portrait above, this paiting is alos over 2.5m high.
[RPYMR:2025.10]
Spirit Level, pre-1923
A simple brass topped wooden spirt level where the company ownership letters are stamped on the top.
[RPYMR:1988.37.8]
Buckle, pre 1923
A belt buckle worn by Midland Railway staff (shown on a replica leather belt).
[RPYMR:1994.19]
Clothes Brush, pre 1923
Employees were expected to present themselves smartly when on duty.
[RPYMR:1992.4.15]
Portrait of Mr. Grundy, Stationmaster
This colour image shows the high status with which Stationmasters were regarded and the pride they took in their position. It provides a clear view of the uniform.
Mr Grundy was Stationmaster at Ambergate Station, an important triangular junction where the lines to Leeds and Manchester divided after leaving Derby.
He held that position from c.1875 until retiring aged 70 in 1898.
[RPYMR:1998.20]
Wall Clock, pre 1923
Clocks were found in offices, stations and signal boxes as accurate time-keeping was required across the whole Company.
[Support Collection]
MR Ink Well, pre 1923
Writing in ink in this period required the regular dipping of a nib into ink. Ink wells such as this would have been seen in every office across the network.
[RPYMR:1997.18.1]
Personal Notebook, pre 1923
Notebook issued by the Company and used by a PW (track) worker to hold technical information about rails, points, etc.
[RPYMR:1996.9.2]
Midland Railway Office Chair, pre 1923
An example of an office chair that would have been found throughout the Company. The back rail is carved with the initial M.
[RPYMR: 1994.14]