The History of Brighouse & Halifax Model Engineers

The origins of Brighouse & Halifax Model Engineers can be traced back to 1932, when a small group of like-minded enthusiasts began meeting informally to share their interest in model engineering.

These early gatherings took place at various locations, most notably the Brighouse Co-operative Café and the home of Mr Douglas Miller, who would become the Society's founder.

By 1934, interest had grown sufficiently for a formal society to be established. Douglas Miller was the driving force behind its formation and early development, occasionally hosting meetings at his own works.

During these formative years, members attended model engineering exhibitions at the Halifax and Huddersfield Drill Halls. Several exhibited their own models, and it is believed that some received awards for their craftsmanship.

Without a permanent headquarters or suitable facilities, constructing and operating larger miniature locomotives was difficult. As a result, much of the early activity centred around smaller-gauge engines and engineering projects.

The outbreak of the Second World War in 1939 brought much of the Society's activity to a halt.

Many members entered military service, including Douglas Miller, who served with the Royal Navy at Scapa Flow. Remarkably, he was able to make use of his own motor yacht during his wartime service.

With essential materials diverted to the war effort and many members away from home, model engineering activities became extremely limited.

Following the end of the war in 1945, the Society gradually resumed its activities, and plans for a much more ambitious future began to take shape.

In 1948, Douglas Miller approached fellow members with an exciting proposal. He owned a piece of land suitable for constructing a miniature railway and invited the Society to join him in developing it.

The members enthusiastically accepted, and work began on what would eventually become Ravensprings Park.

The first major project was an elevated railway designed to accommodate 3½-inch and 5-inch gauge locomotives. Construction was a considerable undertaking, particularly with the limited equipment and resources available at the time.

Concrete support pillars were cast individually on site, typically at a rate of just two on a Saturday and another two on a Sunday. Progress was understandably slow, but the members' enthusiasm and determination never faltered.

The track's longitudinal supports were made from reclaimed railway sleepers, painstakingly cut to length using hand saws. Douglas Miller personally shaped and adjusted the timber using an adze, demonstrating remarkable skill and craftsmanship.

Aluminium rails were installed, and these proved so durable that they remained in service for more than 40 years so that when completed, the elevated railway provided approximately 600 feet of running track.

With the elevated railway established, attention turned to constructing a larger, ground-level track for 7¼-inch gauge locomotives.

This new railway was laid around the outside of the elevated track and initially extended for approximately 640 feet. Aluminium rails were again used in its construction.

As the facilities developed, more locomotives began to appear at the Society, particularly in 3½-inch gauge, which at the time was regarded as quite substantial. Meanwhile, Douglas Miller was working on an ambitious project of his own: a 7¼-inch gauge Duchess locomotive, appropriately named Duchess of Brighouse.

To help fund the continued development of the railway, members constructed a portable track that could be taken to local galas, shows and community events. This proved to be an important source of income for the Society and established a tradition that continues today, with BHME still taking its portable railway to events to raise funds and introduce miniature railways to a wider audience.

Once the railway and grounds had been developed sufficiently to provide a safe environment for visitors, the Society began holding public open days. Admission was originally just three old pence (3d), with a further 3d charged for each train ride. These events allowed local families to enjoy the miniature railway while providing valuable support for the Society's continued development.

Model boating was also extremely popular among members, and it was eventually decided to construct a boating pond within the grounds. The pond became a much-loved attraction, particularly for local children, who enjoyed sailing their model boats during public open days.

One of the more entertaining stories from the Society's early history concerns the official opening of the boating pond.

For the occasion, Douglas Miller constructed a special launching ramp for his large model boat. A crowd gathered around the water as the Mayor prepared to perform the ceremonial launch.

The boat entered the pond to enthusiastic cheers, but the resulting wave was rather larger than anyone had anticipated!

Spectators standing on the opposite bank received an unexpected soaking, creating a memorable moment in the Society's history.

The Society continued to grow and develop, although not every project could last indefinitely. The boating pond eventually developed a serious leak, and the cost of repairs would have been considerable. 

By this time, many boating enthusiasts had also moved towards radio-controlled models that required a much larger area of water. The difficult decision was therefore made to close the pond. Its loss affected membership, which fell from approximately 120 to around 80 members. Nevertheless, the miniature railway remained at the heart of the Society, and improvements to the track and facilities continued.  

A particularly important milestone came in 1966, following the death of founder and President Douglas Miller. The Society purchased the freehold of Ravensprings Park, securing a permanent home for future generations of model engineers. 

Owning the land outright has provided BHME with a degree of independence and long-term security that relatively few model engineering societies enjoy. However, maintaining and improving the grounds, railway infrastructure and associated facilities remains an ongoing financial responsibility. 

Income from public running days, private events, portable railway appearances and donations continues to play an essential role in keeping Ravensprings Park operating.

Over the decades, Ravensprings Park has undergone considerable improvements, with generations of volunteers contributing their time, skills and enthusiasm. The original elevated railway has been completely relaid several times. 

More recent reconstruction work has introduced reclaimed plastic materials for the track supports and sleepers, helping to improve durability and reduce future maintenance requirements. In the early 2020s, a new canopy was installed over the elevated railway's locomotive preparation and steaming area. 

The 7¼-inch gauge ground-level railway has also been significantly extended and now provides more than 1,000 feet of track. Today's ground level railway includes:

• A dedicated railway tunnel.
• A covered station concourse with two platforms.
• A passing loop to support railway operations.
• A second, balloon-style turning loop incorporating a bridge.
• Locomotive and carriage storage facilities.

Together, these improvements have transformed the original railway into the established miniature railway attraction enjoyed by visitors today.