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My steam adventures started at steam rallies that my parents took me to when I was a small boy.  I have memories of both my uncles being there, the smell of the smoke, the sound of the steam whistles, and my late uncle driving a traction engine towing a trailer full of excited passengers under a tree, most likely knocking their hats off. As a small child I thought this was just the best.

Steam runs in the family; my uncle has had a long association with steam and local rallies.  My grandfather was an engineer, and spent many hours making models of all kinds, some of which I now proudly own.  I also remember saying to my uncle as 5-year-old, “I really want a traction engine”, his reply was “one day you will!”

I have fantasised for many years about what I could do to make the dream a reality.  But recently, I have been given the chance to make my dream come true.  I am now lucky to be building a Polly Model Engineering – Prairie Tank Kit in 5” Gauge.  I would love it be a 4” scale model traction engine, but the property I life in means that this is not possible or practical, so that dream is on pause.

I recently visited Polly Model Engineering and was able to meet the owners and tour the factory, an amazing place, a lovely couple who were very hospitable. 

This is not a cheap hobby to get into (fishing or golf is possibly a lot cheaper) but I found it within easy reach.  I have never done anything like this before, the closest I have gotten to building anything like this was Technic Lego at the age of 11 (and again at 44! – best birthday gift ever), when your partner asks, “what do you want for your birthday?” it’s an easy answer, Technic Lego!

I will be combining another hobby, technology, to document the process of the build, so people like me, that that want to find out what is involved can check it out without the cost.  I have watched many YouTube build videos, and these have all helped me to decide on this kit.

This is my “Apprenticeship” Engine, it’s going to teach me many new things about, engineering, painting and steam in general, so follow me as I build a fantastic little Prairie Tank Loco Kit.  Do you want to know what I’m going to call it? Well, watch the build and you will find out. See you at a rally in the future!