Coffin Carrier, London & North Eastern Railway

maker:
Unidentified

Coffin carrier, London & North Eastern Railway. Painted black, on four wheels, curved roof and double doors at both ends.

The transport of the dead by rail had begun in the mid-19th century. When the concept was first introduced passengers and officials had reservations – there was a suggestion that what was perceived as the cold efficiency of train travel was not appropriate for the sombre occasion of a funeral.

British Rail officially put an end to carrying coffins by rail in 1988, although in reality the practice had long since ceased.

Details

Category:
Fixtures & Fittings from Railway Buildings
Object Number:
1975-7080
Materials:
wood (unidentified), canvas and iron
Measurements:
overall: 1600 mm x 2475 mm x 1050 mm,
type:
coffin carrier
credit:
British Rail, Historical Relics