The Rocket was the world's first modern steam locomotive. Its design set the standard for 150 years. After Rocket's success the railways expanded quickly and for the first time huge numbers of people were able to move across the world .... many in search of a new life.
Stephenson's Rocket was built in 1829 at the Forth Street Works of Robert Stephenson and Co in Newcastle Upon Tyne. It was built for the Rainhill Trials held by the Liverpool & Manchester Railway to choose the best design to power the railway - and it won. It was the first locomotive to bring together several innovations making it the most advanced locomotive of its day.