Taliesin II

From Festipedia, hosted by the FR Heritage Group

This vehicle was originally known as Livingston Thompson and a full history can be found on its page.

In 1932, following a heavy overhaul, the engine returned to traffic bearing the name Taliesin. This name had been carried by a single Fairlie built in 1876, but withdrawn sometime after 1925).

The engine was under repair again, in 1939 until the railway suspended rail operations, on 1st August, 1946.

It was the second loco to be returned to service, with assistance from Vulcan Foundry (including the gift of an elephant whistle). It was in service from 5th September 1956 to 22nd April 1961.

Around this time, it was indicated that the Duke of Edinburgh would be happy to have his name on a FR locomotive. Francis Wayne, the then FR Co. Company secretary, had been at school with the Duke's secretary. In an excess of loyal zeal it was announced that Taliesin will be renamed Earl of Merioneth / Iarll Meirionnydd by Mr Oswald Thomas at Minffordd on AGM day 22nd April 1961, after the arrival of the special from London. There was some grumbling amongst the society membership at the time, as Taliesin is a famous figure in Welsh legend

Further details can also be found on the Earl Of Merioneth page.