Historic England has today, Friday, unveiled a national blue plaque to celebrate the life and legacy of Reverend Wilbert Awdry, the beloved author and creator of Thomas the Tank Engine.
The plaque has been installed at his former home, 30 Rodborough Avenue, Stroud, where he lived for many years after retiring from the Church.
The unveiling marks 80 years since the publication of The Three Railway Engines — the first of The Railway Series books which began the world-famous adventures of Thomas and his friends.
The plaque was unveiled by Historic England Chief Executive Duncan Wilson and Veronica Chambers, Reverend Awdry’s daughter, joined by members of the Awdry family including grandchildren Claire Chambers, Mark Chambers, and Richard Awdry.
The inscription reads:“The Reverend Wilbert Awdry (1911–1997)
Children’s Author who created Thomas the Tank Engine lived here.”
Tributes to a Literary Legend
Duncan Wilson, Chief Executive of Historic England, said: “Loved around the world, it’s an honour to remember Reverend Awdry and the happiness he brought to so many childhoods. The early books laid the foundation for a global phenomenon, inspired by the magic of steam trains that has delighted generations.”
Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross added: “Children across the country have grown up dreaming of a train ride with Thomas, Gordon, Percy and friends. Reverend Awdry’s books show how our railways can spark imagination and creativity. This plaque is a fitting tribute during the Railway 200 celebrations.”
Veronica Chambers, Reverend Awdry’s daughter, said: “Alongside his work as a parish priest, my father was a lifelong railway enthusiast. Through Thomas the Tank Engine and friends, he created a magical world that has enchanted generations. It’s wonderful that his home in Rodborough is now marked with this national blue plaque.”
Ian McCue, Creative Producer for Thomas & Friends at Mattel, said: “For 80 years, Reverend Awdry’s stories have inspired imagination, adventure and friendship. This plaque honours his creativity and the timeless joy Thomas & Friends continues to bring to families worldwide.”
Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, added: “This is a fantastic contribution to the 200th anniversary of the modern railway — recognising an author who inspired generations to fall in love with trains.”
Dr Simon Opher, MP for Stroud, said: “This recognition is long overdue. Reverend Awdry’s genius lay in creating the world of Sodor — recognisable yet magical. His finely written stories continue to speak to readers today.”
Cllr Nigel Prenter, Stroud District Council, said: “The Railway Series has captured hearts across the world. Reverend Awdry’s time in Rodborough is a source of great pride and has truly put the area on the map.”
Tim Dunn, broadcaster and railway historian, added: “Reverend Awdry’s legacy is happiness on a global scale. His stories inspired generations, fuelled the railway preservation movement, and connected countless fans in friendship and creativity.”
About Reverend Wilbert Awdry (1911–1997)
Born in Hampshire in 1911, Wilbert Vere Awdry was an English clergyman, railway enthusiast, and pioneering children’s author. His fascination with trains began as a boy living near Box Tunnel in Wiltshire, where the sounds of the railway inspired him to imagine conversations between engines.
Ordained in 1936, he served in several parishes before writing stories to entertain his son Christopher during an illness in 1943. Those stories became The Three Railway Engines (1945) — the first of 26 books in The Railway Series.
Thomas the Tank Engine, who appeared in the second book in 1946, soon became a global icon. The television adaptation Thomas & Friends first aired in 1984, narrated by Ringo Starr, and continues to captivate audiences around the world today.
Awdry retired to Stroud, where he continued his railway work and writing until his death in 1997. He was awarded an OBE in 1996 for services to children’s literature.
About the National Blue Plaque Scheme
Launched in 2023 by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and administered by Historic England, the National Blue Plaque Scheme celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on communities across England.
The Reverend Awdry plaque is the first national blue plaque to be unveiled that was nominated by a member of the public.
This unveiling also forms part of Railway 200, a nationwide campaign celebrating 200 years of the modern railway, encouraging people to engage with the history and future of Britain’s railways.
