
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co was a pioneering company that played a significant role in the development of steam-powered vehicles.
Founded in 1897, the company's primary focus was on designing and manufacturing steam wagons, which were essentially steam-powered lorries.
These early steam wagons were a game-changer in the transportation industry, offering a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to traditional horse-drawn carriages.
The company's innovative designs and commitment to quality helped establish the Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co as a leading manufacturer in the field.
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A Brief History
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. has a rich history that spans over a century. The company was founded in 1901 by Joseph Clayton and George Hutchinson Mann, who took out patents for a double-ended locomotive type boiler and transmission to the rear axle.
The first wagons were produced under the name of the Yorkshire Steam Motor Company at a small works in Ingham Street, Leeds. This marked the beginning of a long legacy of innovative and high-quality vehicles.

In 1902, the company was purchased by Deighton's Patent Flue and Tube Co, and the name was changed to the Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Company. This change in ownership and name was a significant milestone in the company's history.
The company's first recorded vehicle, No 6, was made in 1903. This vehicle was a testament to the company's commitment to quality and innovation.
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. entered a vehicle in the RAC trials in 1907 and won a Gold Medal in Class F. This achievement was a significant recognition of the company's expertise and craftsmanship.
From 1909 to 1922, the company produced three basic models: the WE 3-ton, WC 4-ton, and WA 6-ton. These models were designed to meet the needs of various industries and customers.
The company's name was changed to the Yorkshire Commercial Motor Company in 1911, reflecting its brief diversification into internal combustion engined vehicles. However, this change was short-lived, and the name reverted back to Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Company in 1922.
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. ceased production of steam wagons in 1937, after producing a total of 1,356 vehicles. The last steam wagon produced was No 2,271.
The company's history is a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of its founders and employees.
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General History
In 1900, Patents for a double ended locomotive type boiler were taken out by Joseph Clayton and George Hutchinson Mann, which would become a characteristic feature of all "Yorkshire" wagons.
The first wagons were produced in 1901 under the name of the Yorkshire Steam Motor Company at a small works in Ingham Street, Leeds.
The company was purchased by Deighton's Patent Flue and Tube Co in 1902, and the name was changed to the Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Company with the sub-title Branch of Deighton's Patent Flue and Tube Company Ltd.
The works moved to a new site in 1903, alongside the parent company's works and those of Mann's in Pepper Road.
The first recorded vehicle (No 6) made by the company was in 1903.
The company entered a vehicle in the RAC trials in 1907 and won a Gold Medal in Class F, which was later included on the transfers applied to later Yorkshire wagons.
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From 1909 to 1922, they produced three basic models: the WE 3-ton, WC 4-ton, and WA 6-ton wagons.
The name of the company was changed to the Yorkshire Commercial Motor Company in 1911, but reverted back to Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Company in 1922.
The company ceased production of steam wagons in 1937, with a total of 1,356 produced, and the last was No 2,271.
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Steam Engines
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. was a pioneering company in the development of steam-powered vehicles. They first patented their steam engine in 1788, marking a significant milestone in the history of transportation.
Their steam engines were designed to power lorries, which were a crucial part of their business.
Description
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. produced catalogues that were a true reflection of their engineering excellence. These catalogues were often beautifully designed and printed, showcasing the company's attention to detail.
The company's steam wagons were quite distinctive in appearance, with a unique design that set them apart from their rivals. The front of the steam wagon resembled a hammer with a short stubby handle standing on its head.
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This distinctive design was due to the use of two short railway locomotive type fire tube boilers sharing a common fire box, with the chimney mounted vertically above. The individual smoke box doors at each end were designed for cleaning purposes.
The majority of the steam wagons were chain driven, but the company was also introducing cardan shaft versions. These newer versions were faster and quieter than the chain driven ones.
All working parts were totally enclosed in an accessible oil tight casing, reducing the need for daily lubrication and lubrication on the road. This innovative design made maintenance a breeze.
The Yorkshire Patent Steam Wagon Co. was a pioneer in its field, and its catalogues reflected its commitment to quality and innovation.
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