‘The Stratford Upon Avon & Midland Junction Railway’ (or S.M.J.) was a small independent railway company which ran a line across the empty, untouched centre of England. It visited the counties of Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and a little of Buckinghamshire, only existing as the SMJ from 1909 to 1923. In 1923 the S.M.J.became a minor arm of the London Midland and Scottish (L.M.S.), then in 1948 'British Railways'

Gone but not forgotten: "the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth"

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National Archives, Donation and Kineton Photograph

Not sure if others are aware of the significant amount of documents held by the National Archives on the SMJ. The collection consists mainly of Directors Minutes etc. There is also a collection of early 20th C timetables, handbills etc. which I have…Continue

Started by Dave Hayward Apr 26.

Model Railways

HiI'm selling my collection of SMJR related 00 gauge modelsIf of interest for any of you please contact me by mail atjfreuville@gmail.comand I will send you the list and photosKind regardsJackContinue

Started by Jack Freuville Feb 23.

BLAKESLEY and an SMJ stamp

This item has come up in an auction recently and is a glimpse of the practice of carrying mail by train. Apart from the SMJ…Continue

Started by Graham Ward Nov 14, 2025.

Further about Ravenstone Wood Junction 1 Reply

Firstly a belated thanks to Barry for his excellent research that has returned these signal lever plates to their rightful home! [Perhaps their place of residence on the website needs changing!] Apologies for starting s new Forum discussion on this…Continue

Started by Dave Hayward. Last reply by Barry Taylor Oct 23, 2025.

SMJ photos

Ro Railer (possible update)

Hi everyone

I am sure most have you have read my account of the Ro Railer which is on another part of this site. From time to time new tit-bits of info come along and a revision is needed. I would appreciate any comments regarding the following.

1. The story concerning the Ro Railer being used for a journey to Broom and having to return backwards is both amusing and possible. However the source has never been verified and there is no way I feel that this account should be allowed to remain "on record" without some other verification. I feel that I have exhausted all of my research leads on this unless anyone can add substance to the acount I will leave it as a footnote but clearly mark it as "dubious".

2. The disposal of the Ro Railer after its demise in traffic near Byfield has been difficult to acertain. As stated in the essay the vehicle remained taxed for road use at least until 1938 and the assumption was that it was sold for use as a bus/coach. I have now found out that the registration was continued by the LMS and that has led to further enquiries. I have found out that the vehicle was downgraded and used as some sort of PW inspection or maintenance vehicle and that it finished its life on such duties in Scotland. One printed record has come to light that says it served on the Fort William line. Before I revise my essay can anyone add or comment to the above please?