SEWARDS OF PETERSFIELD
Engineer, Threshing and Haulage Contractors
This Sewards of Petersfield website is dedicated to the story of the business W. Seward and Son, Engineer and Haulage Contractor, started in 1886 by Walter Seward of Petersfield, Hampshire, England. You will find on this website the known history of the business, its employees and its glorious steam traction engines, of which there were a total of 14 over the years.
The business and workshop ceased to exist in 1969/70 with the passing of James Seward, son of Walter Seward. However, three of the traction engines, a centre engine from Noyce’s gallopers fairground ride, and an original Tasker trailer exist to this day. The eldest of the traction engines, Marshall 14242 Victoria, Empress of India and Fowler 7453 Albert are now own by Walter’s great, great grandson, Lloyd Wakelin and his family, and are shown at events across the South of England, continuing the story of these engines for future generations to enjoy.
You will find in the news section of this website updates to the on-going and ever evolving stories of Marshall 14242 Victoria, Empress of India and Fowler 7453 Albert.
Victoria is now the main character in a hit children’s story book series called Victoria’s Torton Tales, written by Wendy Wakelin, originally for her children when Victoria returned to the family in 2002. The first books in the series were published in 2016.
We hope you enjoy reading the history of this small business based in the picturesque market town of Petersfield, Hampshire, nestled under the rolling hills of the South Downs.
If you know more history about this business or its steam engines, we would love to hear from you, as it will enable us to add to the known history. You can contact us by emailing info@sewards-of-petersfield.co.uk.
Thank you for stopping by, and we hope to see you at an event with Victoria one day.
Which year were the best steam engine built? Choose the year of your favourite engine for your T-shirt.
Inspired by, and celebrating, the huge impact steam had on the industrial and agricultural revolutions, and transportation.
Children’s T-Shirts for steam engine mad little ones.
For those who love road going steam and celebrating the original mechanically propelled machines for the road.
All steam fans know the wonderful smell of steam and oil. There’s nothing like it, making these perfect for all steam nuts.
