HALF A CENTURY OF STEAM

I first met Jonathan Vartan at a local rally where I was a commentator and rally marshal. He had not long been the owner of Hermes, Fowler DNC 4nhp compound road roller No. 21833 built in 1936, and I was pleased to note that the engine was in fine order.

I met up with Jonathan at the New Inn at Hadlow Down, often the haunt of Sussex engine owners, and we soon fell into conversation reminiscing about his years with Hermes on the rally circuit. I knew a bit about the Fowler’s history but I was keen to learn more, so I started by asking Jonathan how and when he first acquired it.

In 1982 Goff Radcliff was selling off part of his extensive collection of steam engines and fairground rides. (Goff is a well respected local preservationist and is, to this day, still involved in the movement). I went along with a friend to see what was on offer. Such mighty engines as and showman’s engine were beyond my means, but I had some compensation from a rather nasty which Goff accepted.