The Liverpool Overhead Railway operated from 1893 to 1956, and was a unique example of an American-style elevated railway in the United Kingdom. It was the world’s first electric elevated railway and the first to use automatic signalling and electric signal lights. Serving Liverpool’s then thriving docks, it quickly earned the affectionate nickname, “The Dockers’ Umbrella”, as the elevated structure sheltered dock workers from the rain as they moved from dock to dock.
This attractive 1930s tourist brochure shows the route of the LOR, and also writes at length about the points of interest to be seen along the way. I definitely recommend clicking through to the large size on Flickr to see some of the best early 20th century British Imperial trade propaganda you’re ever likely to read. See also the rather lovely brochure cover here.
The railway suffered substantial bomb damage in World War II, and by the early 1950s was in a very poor state of repair. Unable to afford repairs, the operating company went into voluntary liquidation and the line closed in 1956. Dismantled shortly thereafter, very little trace of this interesting railway remains today.
Source: mikeyashworth/Flickr
Sad to see it is long gone. I’m nearly 85 and used to spend a fortnights summer holiday with my grandparents in Wallasey. Highlights were my Grandfather taking me to New Brighton, catching the ferry boat to Pier Head, then the LOR to Seaforth and back. This was war time and I vividly remember seeing all the great ships in the docks. the Empress of Canada stands out especially. Dark days in hindsight, but thrilling for a young boy.
Is it possible to buy a print of this?
I don’t have this available as a print in my store — this map is from Mike Ashworth’s personal collection.
OK. Thanks for getting back to me.