The Reverend W. V. Awdry, the creator of Thomas the Tank Engine, undoubtedly drew inspiration from the world of railways for his beloved stories. While the exact inspiration behind the bustling shunting yard of Barrow in the series remains a bit of a chugging mystery, there are some strong clues pointing to a real-life counterpart: Barrow-in-Furness.
Here’s why Barrow-in-Furness might have been Awdry’s muse:
● Railway Enthusiast: Awdry was a lifelong railway enthusiast, and Barrow-in-Furness boasted a significant historical railway network thanks to its industrial past. The sights and sounds of steam engines, bustling yards, and clanging workshops might have sparked his imagination for the busy setting of Barrow in the show. Imagine Awdry, perhaps on a visit to the town, observing the dockside lines with their impressive engines and the Furness Railway network stretching across the landscape.
● Island Location: The fictional Isle of Sodor, home to Thomas and his friends, sits geographically between Barrow-in-Furness and the Isle of Man. This geographical connection adds fuel to the theory that the real Barrow played a role. Picture Awdry gazing across the Irish Sea from the Cumbrian coast, the Isle of Man visible in the distance, and envisioning his fictional island of Sodor nestled between.
Now, there are some puzzling aspects too:
● Industrial vs. Idyllic: Barrow-in-Furness is an industrial town, whereas Sodor is known for its charming countryside with green fields and quaint villages. It’s a bit of a mismatch. Perhaps Awdry blended the industrial character of Barrow-in-Furness with the idyllic landscapes of the surrounding Lake District and Cumbria to create Sodor’s unique atmosphere.
● Shunting vs. Grand Network: The show’s Barrow focuses on shunting and local deliveries, while the real Barrow likely had a much larger railway network extending across the Furness peninsula and beyond. Awdry might have chosen to focus on shunting and local deliveries to create a more relatable and engaging world for young children, where the engines have specific tasks and personalities.
So, while there’s no written proof saying Awdry based Sodor on Barrow-in-Furness, the pieces fit together in a fun way. The industrial history and geographical location hint at a connection, even if the exact details remain a delightful mystery for Thomas the Tank Engine fans.