Vintage British Railways Region B.R.(W) J. Hudson Acme Thunderer Whistle

An original vintage British Railways Western Region Acme Thunderer whistle, manufactured in England by J. Hudson & Co. of Birmingham, one of Britain's best-known and most important whistle manufacturers. The whistle is clearly stamped to the front: THE ACME THUNDERER MADE IN ENGLAND It is of particular interest is the additional “B.R.(W)” marking to the side, denoting British Railways – Western Region. British Railways was established following nationalisation in 1948, with the Western Region largely inheriting the former Great Western Railway network. Whistles such as this were practical pieces of railway equipment, carried and used by railway personnel for signalling and operational duties. The classic Acme Thunderer is of the traditional escargot or snail-form construction, with a large rectangular sound opening and suspension ring allowing the whistle to be attached to a chain or lanyard. This example has clearly seen genuine working use and consequently has considerably more character than an unused example. The original plated surface displays rubbing, scratches, tarnishing and areas of plating loss, all entirely consistent with its age and working life. The important B.R.(W) ownership/departmental marking remains clearly visible. DETAILS Model: The Acme Thunderer Marking: B.R.(W) Organisation: British Railways – Western Region Type: Railway signalling / staff whistle Finish: Plated metal Suspension: Original-type split ring present In good working order.