George Hudson, English railway chairman, c 1850.

Engraving by James Andrews after his own painting. Railway chairman George Hudson (1800-1871), a York draper who was known as the 'Railway King'. He played a major role in the development of the railways in Britain and became Chairman of the York and North Midland Railway and Lord Mayor of York in 1837. In 1844 Hudson was appointed Chairman of Midland Railway. Following the collapse of his financial empire during the 'Railway Mania' he fell from favour and died in 1871.