Thomas the Tank Engine Wikia
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“He's a lovely engine, a South Western from Devon. He can stroll away with any load he's given.”
― Stepney, Stepney's Special, Stepney the "Bluebell" Engine


Adams, also known by his number 488, is a large tank engine who resides on the Bluebell Railway.

Biography

The Railway Series

"Adams" originated from the London & South Western Railway, he was later saved from scrap and brought for preservation by the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society.

When Stepney visited the Island of Sodor, he mentioned Adams in a conversation with Edward. He and Cromford did not have names then, so the other engines nicknamed him "Adams", after his designer, William Adams. According to Stepney, his Controller was unaware of this name change and intended to keep it a secret between the engines.

Personality

According to Stepney, Adams is a lovely engine who "can stroll away with any load he's given".

Technical Details

Real-life History

Adams is based upon the real No. 488, a LSWR 415 class "Radial Tank" engine, built on March 31st 1885 for hauling goods on the London & South Western Railway. Unlike his Railway Series counterpart, it does not retain the name "Adams". 488 was withdrawn from service in July 31st 1961. The locomotive was then purchased by the Bluebell Railway, as he was the one retaining the original pattern of boiler.

488 is currently requiring a new boiler barrel, but he can be seen on display at the Bluebell Railway along with other engines. The Bluebell Railway has not announced an exact date for his return to steam, but it will be several years.

Livery

Adams is painted in the London & South Western Railway's green livery, with black and white lining. "No. 488" is painted on his front bufferbeam in yellow

Appearances

The Railway Series

Companion volumes

Trivia

  • Adams was sold to the military during the first World War, and worked at Ridham dock near Sittingbourne.

Gallery


* RWS only | ** T&F only
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