Episode Details

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward speak to Dr Mike Esbester, head of the Railway Work, Life & Death Project, to uncover the rich history of railway workers in the UK. Marking the 200th anniversary of the modern railway (Railway200), Mike explores the huge impact the railways had on our ancestors’ lives — from the jobs they did to the dangers they faced. Learn how to trace your railway-working relatives and discover how working conditions, roles, and risks have evolved over time. It's a fascinating journey into an industry that transformed Britain.