Charles Burrell and Sons

Thetford, Suffolk

Burrell's operated out of St. Nicholas Works in Thetford England from their establishment as a foundry and agricultural machinery works by Joseph Burrell in 1803. Joseph's nephew Charles I built the companies first steam engine. The first Burrell road engine emerged in 1856 followed by portable engines, ploughing engines, general purpose engines, road locomotives, road rollers and wagons all of which were built over the years.

Over 125 years Charles Burrell & Sons were to become one of the world's premier manufacturers of traction engines employing over 300 people and exporting to all corners of the world. The company also produced some other interesting engineering devices form bacon slicers to brush-making machines. During the first world war the company produced munitions for the war effort.

The company had to finally close its doors on June 4th 1928 following a failed takeover and the emergence of newer technologies. All machinery held by the company was auctioned off in December of 1930 Today, the Burrell name lives on in the hundreds of preserved examples throughout the world where the engines are still regarded as the 'Rolls Royces' of the steam movement.

Gallery of Burrell engines