GWR 58725 Improvised Gunpowder Van
| GWR 58725 Improvised Gunpowder Van | |
|---|---|
 GWR 58725 Improvised Gunpowder Van | |
| Built By | GWR Swindon |
| Status | Operational |
| Number | 58725 |
| Other Numbers | W 204988 |
| History | |
| Built | 1896 |
| Diagram | V6 |
| Lot | 117 |
| Type | 4-wheel ventilated van |
| Capacity | 10 tons |
| Telegraphic code | CONE |
| 1977 | Arrived on SVR |
| 1985 | GWR 150 main line appearance |
58725 was originally built at Swindon as an ‘Iron Mink’ general merchandise van in 1896 to Diagram V6, Lot 117.[1] It was converted to an Improvised Gunpowder Van (telegraph code CONE) and loaned to the Southern Railway in 1938. Modifications included the blocking of the vents at each end. It was reconverted back to a standard goods van upon its return to the GWR in 1945. The wagon also saw service with the Longmoor Military Railway and post-war with BR(W).[2]
Preservation[edit | edit source]
58725 arrived on the SVR on 29 April 1977 from Cashmores at Great Bridge, carrying the BR(W) number W 204988.[3] Evidence of its SR livery was discovered during restoration in 1980,[2] which mainly involved the replacement of a quantity of defective steelwork and the return of the van to a CONE in black livery with a red cross.[4]
In 1985, 58725 appeared on the main line when it was used in the GW 150 demonstration freight train which ran to Newport behind GWR freight loco 2857.[5]
58725 received further repaints as a CONE in 1997[6] and 2011 (roof only).[7] It was most recently overhauled and repainted as a gunpowder van during 2015, the work mainly involving new door lintels and replacement of the steel panels on two doors.[8] The main picture shows the van at Highley shortly after that overhaul.
In 2022 Rapido Trains produced a commercial OO gauge model[9].
Bewdley 2012 (Gareth Price)
58725 is owned by The GWR 813 Preservation Fund.