Conference: The Birth and Evolution of European Railways – Historical Issues and Lessons for Today
On 21 November 2025, the 10th International Railway History Association conference explores the history of the railway looking towards its role in today’s discussions. Join IRHA, Rails et histories and SNCF in Paris, France to conclude the year celebrating 200 years of railway.
Two hundred years ago, the world’s first railway line opened between the British cities of Stockton and Darlington. The railway has been viewed with a mixture of fear, admiration and hope. It was seen as a means of creating wealth while mobilising considerable investment. Initially, its effects on economic growth, industry and innovation prevailed in people’s minds and historiography over the revolution it brought about in the mobility of goods and people, food and lifestyles, education, and the circulation of ideas and the perception of space. All of these changed in scale. As this year of celebrations comes to a close, the IRHA aims to stimulate ongoing debate and once again place the railway at the heart of contemporary discussions, as it was two centuries ago.
The programme concludes with the award presentation of the François Caron prize offered by Rails & histoire.
Please note, the conference will be mainly held in English. Participation is free of charge. AHICF is an IATM member.
An in-depth programme is available for download from the Association’s Website. To participate, simply register at the link below and join the community of railway historians and enthusiasts on 21 November 2025 at SNCF, 34, rue du Commandant René-Mouchotte, 75014 Paris, France.
