Like any invention, the railway has been the product of evolution. Originally meant for moving freight, its use for passenger transportation is representative of a secondary thought that would eventually take center stage, indicating the rising importance of the railway in British society (Robbins 15). As the usefulness of railways became more established, the railway became an increasingly influential element within British society that forever transformed the lives of Britons.

A brief history of the railway and its impact on society begins with the physicality of the railway itself.  In the early 1800s, railways in Britain were poorly organized. Their capabilities for long distant transport limited were limited until track gauge was standardized (Robbins 1948, 28; Nock 1948, 10). With the standardization of gauge and the introduction of the steam locomotive, the amount of laid track grew, making the railway a more viable option for public transportation. In 1830, there had been less than one hundred miles of track, but by the end of 1850, roughly six thousand miles for public use existed (Robbins 31).

As the development of the railway pressed forward, it brought with it additional impacts on society. As more and more miles of track existed, localities became better connected to one another, allowing people from diverse locations and socioeconomic statuses the ability to travel more freely (Robbins 33). These connections allowed for greater travel and accelerated delivery of mail and newspapers and transportation of milk and perishable foods (Robbins 1948, 16). Additionally, the railway was accompanied by the use of the telegraph by the public as many rail stations housed telegraph offices (Robbins 45). As a result, communication became easier and the food supply became more stable and diversified. Furthermore, the expansion of the railway across regions resulted in the standardization of Greenwich time, benefiting the rail companies and the public.

Though the railway benefited the public by supporting greater travel and expedient communication methods and food transport, it was not without consequence. With more ability to travel distances, people took advantage of the railway’s connections. Increased travel posed problems for communities as they had not been accustomed to such volumes of travelers and thus lacked the ability to accommodate them (Robbins 44). Railways also furthered class distinctions as they allowed the wealthy to live away from work, distinguishing classes from and within the city and the suburbs (Robbins 48). Class distinctions were furthered by the railway’s use of classified cars into first, second, third, and occasionally fourth (Robbins 49).

- Brittan Duffing