Phased Out: Signal Boxes & Semaphores - End of an Era

The End of an Era
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Signal Boxes and Semaphores entered operation in the 1840s, as a revolutionary system of railway signaling. This semaphore system involves signals that display their different indications to train drivers by changing the angle of inclination of a pivoted 'arm’. Semaphore signaling was adopted widely up until the 1950s, when the rise of digital signals on the ECML signaled the start of modernisation. Cornwall, as per usual, remained 50 years behind, with mechanical signaling staying in operation. That is, until the Winter of 2023/24, when after a life span of at least 120 years, the signal boxes and semaphores are to be phased out. I've wanted to make a film about Semaphore signals for some time, and I find it lucky to know that I made this film before they stopped operating. This film has captions, explaining what is happening, however, if you want to see the action, shots were taken at:

00:00 Semaphore Signals
00:10 St. Erth
04:19 Lelant Saltings
05:27 St Erth
06:49 Liskeard
08:41 Truro
12:21 Par
15:55 St. Blazey
16:48 Goonbarrow
20:22 Lostwithiel
23:09 2 Week Closure

I hope you enjoy watching this. If you did, please like, comment, & subscribe, it really is rather flattering.

Find a south-west railtour calendar, along with a heritage gala calendar and my best photos at:
https://www.trecanrail.com/

‪@steamtothewest-trecanrail‬

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Disclaimer : There was no trespassing used in the making of this film, all shots were taken on roads, or footpaths.