Remains of Stephenson's 'Rocket' (1829) on display, 2001.

Remains of Stephenson's 'Rocket', 1829. On display in the 'Making the Modern World' gallery, Science Museum, London. The Rocket, designed by Robert Stephenson (1803-1859) became famous after winning the Rainhill Trials of 1829. The Rainhill Trials were a series of speed tests to find the best locomotive for haulage on the Liverpool & Manchester Railway. After winning the competition the Rocket ran on the Liverpool & Manchester Railway (1829-1836) and the Midgeholme Colliery Railway (1836-1840).