Smethwick Engine

The Smethwick Engine is a remarkable feat of history and engineering. Constructed by Boulton and Watt, this Watt steam engine was installed near Birmingham, England, in May 1779. Its primary function was to pump water back up to the summit level of the BCN Old Main Line canal at Smethwick. Today, this extraordinary machine is showcased at Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, holding the distinction of being the oldest working steam engine and the oldest operational engine in the world.

Originally, there were two steam engines tasked with pumping water for the canal, the other being located at Spon Lane. These engines were essential as the local water sources could not supply sufficient water to operate the canal's locks. Over time, the canal system underwent various upgrades, including the construction of a new canal by Thomas Telford in the 1820s.

By 1892, the Smethwick Engine was considered uneconomical to repair and was subsequently replaced. Rather than being scrapped, the original engine was preserved and eventually acquired by Birmingham City Council. Today, it is proudly exhibited as part of the Birmingham Museums collection at Thinktank.

Although the engine house was demolished in 1897, visitors can still explore the original site and its foundations in Smethwick. This location is now part of the Galton Valley Canal Heritage Centre, which offers guided tours. The historical significance of the pumping station was even highlighted in a documentary on the Discovery Shed TV channel in November 2011.