Tag: Bude

Galmptom Traction Engine

Galmpton: Encountering a Superb Traction Engine! (1.8.2024)

Indeed, what Goldsworthy Gurney first envisioned as an “Automobile” to be driven on open roads – became widely known as a “Traction Engine” from around 1850 in the UK. Ironically, whilst carry a single driver on country roads – whilst moving between farming fields – these devices were not allowed to evolve into the Motor Car envisioned by Goldsworthy Gurney. Only much later would a petrol-driven motor car be allowed to be developed. Whilst driving back from Exeter to Galmpton on Friday evening (Friday, August 1st, 2024) – whilst traversing the narrow streets of Galmpton – we encountered the above “Traction Engine” which was apparently joining many other examples in a local fayre that was about to be held! How lucky we were!

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Sir Goldsworthy Gurney & Bude Castle 30.7.15

Bude Castle is not a ‘castle’ as such, but a modest stately home situated in Bude – north Cornwall – that was once the home of Goldsworthy Gurney (1793-1875). Goldsworthy Gurney was born in Padstow (Cornwall) and was something of a genius. He was educated at Truro Grammar School, and despite not going to university, he apprenticed with a local medical doctor, learning how to be a general practitioner, and eventually inheriting the practice as a surgeon before he was 20 years old. However, he longed to experience life in London – one of the most progressive cities in the world – and in 1820 he and his family relocated to the city.

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