The Watford Observer is again delighted to be teaming up with its friends at Watford Museum to take another journey back to the past to recall the key events and dates that helped shape the town’s future.

The third part of '50 events and dates that shaped Watford’ takes us back to a time when a new method of transport arrived in the town that was to revolutionise the country.

The museum's volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: "The arrival of the railway in Watford will have had an impact on everyone in the town. Even before the first trains arrived, large numbers of navvies and bricklayers must have descended on Watford.

"When the line opened in July 1837, the first engine to come down the line was greeted with large crowds who, according to a local historian, had come out “to see the wondrous sight”.

"There was a new station too, off St Albans Road, which at this point was surrounded by fields. However, over the next 30 years, Watford ‘new town’ grew fast in this station area with many new residents commuting to work.

"What had been described as a tranquil and old-fashioned spot, was now developing fast."

Watford Museum has reopened to the public. Admission is free but book first – call 01923 232297 or email info@watfordmuseum.org.uk. For more information, visit www.watfordmuseum.org.uk