A museum trustee shared the history of the Fens' drainage system at a meeting of Ely Rotary Club.
Sharon Kindleysides, a trustee of the Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum, delivered an engaging talk to Ely Rotary Club about the history and development of the area's drainage systems.
The talk took place on Thursday, September 25, at Ely Bowls Club.
Ms Kindleysides, an engineer specialising in intelligent transport systems, delved into the fascinating story of the Fens' drainage, including the people who played a crucial role in its evolution.
The historical narrative stretched back to the era of Henry VIII, who dissolved the monasteries that, until then, had supplied the manpower needed to keep rivers clear.
The water flow was notably slow in the Fens, which was once a winding network of rivers.
This was until the 17th century when Dutch engineer Cornelius Vermuyden introduced land reclamation methods.
These included straightening rivers and creating systems of drainage cuts and washes to redirect water, a notable example being the Bedford Level.
Steam power made its debut in 1831, providing the first pumping station at Prickwillow, with coal being transported up the river from King's Lynn.
It took a day to reach the necessary steam pressure.
In 1924, diesel was introduced and continued in use until 1982, alongside the introduction of electricity in 1958.
The Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum, which has been extended over the years, now houses numerous engines of historical significance.
The museum promotes its activities and raises funds for its future through various events, including celebrating each engine's birthday, science day, tractor runs, classic car days, and school outings.
Though the museum is closed during the winter months due to high heating costs, it reopens at Easter.
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