Restoring the 1936 Fowler “Village Rambler”

The ISPS is restoring the 1936 Fowler “Village Rambler” traction engine, a unique piece of Irish steam heritage that has been out of operation for 25 years, with plans to return it to full working order.
Steam traction engine "Village Rambler" displayed in a shed, showcasing its large wheels and historic design, alongside a blue tractor in the background.

We are currently undertaking the restoration project  of a 1936 Fowler DCC Traction Engine, Works No 21649, Reg Number KI1973, known as “The Village Rambler”. It is currently inoperable and it has been so for the past 25 years. It needs significant work to get it functioning again.

The Society focuses on the authentic preservation and operation of historical machinery ensuring that future generations can experience and learn about Irelands Steam and Diesel heritage. It will need a new firebox, new tube plate, new tubes, new smokebox, new chimney. It also requires some back tender work and some paint work. The aim of this project is to restore this unique piece of heritage so it can be displayed in full working order.

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Laois Partnership Company logo.
Logo of the Clare Local Community Development Committee (LCDC). The text includes the Irish translation "Coiste um Fhorbairt Pobal Áitiúil an Chláir".
Logo of the Government of Ireland, alongside the text “Project Ireland 2040” in both Irish and English.
European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development logo.