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As the industrial age began, machines took over many jobs to increase efficiency. The steam locomotive was a newcomer to America, and it’s hope was to replace the horse in transportation. The steam engine, known as Tom Thumb has a challenge. It is to race a horse to a nearby town.
CBS reporters take us back in time to witness this early challenge of animal power over machine. The steam engines top speed of 15 miles per hour is mighty fast for a hunk of iron, but horses can run faster than that, not to mention getting a quick start. The race is arranged, and CBS reporters bring us the play by play action as the engine revs up, and the race begins. Who will win, machine or horse? It may take time for steam to build up, but how long can a horse sustain it’s speed? Will the horse and rider prove that there ain’t a machine that will ever take the place of solid horse flesh?
Note: According to the closing commentary, the sound affects to depict Tom Thumb are actual sounds from that historic train. It had been part of a museum exhibit, but it proved that nearly 120 years later, it could still function. At least enough to provide the sound affects. Which is more than you could say for the horse.
