Paris-Rouen Railway Opens

The Paris-Rouen Railway marked a pivotal moment in French rail development when it opened on June 24, 1842, connecting the capital to the port city of Rouen. Engineered by British firm Locke & Errington with assistance from Joseph Locke, the 85-mile line featured innovative viaducts and tunnels to navigate the Seine valley. It used early steam locomotives like the Bury 0-4-0 types and quickly boosted trade and passenger travel. This project demonstrated the viability of long-distance rail in continental Europe, influencing subsequent French network expansions under the July Monarchy and setting standards for engineering excellence that enthusiasts still admire in scale modeling today.