A paper was read by Mr. J.G. Walker, C.E. entitled “Our Iron Roads and how they were made.”

After remarking that an ideal line of railway would perhaps be one that was straight and one that was level, the lecturer went on to explain that, owing to the undulating character of this and most other countries, economic considerations rendered it rarely possible to carry out this ideal and that to avoid heavy earthworks it was found necessary to conform, more or less, to the general undulations of the country, and to skirt the sides of hills with the line, and these two considerations introduced into railway construction, what are known as gradients and curves.

The lecturer next proceeded to explain the principles which guide the engineer to a final determination as to a choice of route, and stated that as a rule that section was the best which showed the least divergence from a straight and level line. It was important also to select, when possible, such points for the crossing of public roads and rivers as would cause the least disturbance to existing conditions.

The method of ranging the centre line and setting out curves was then explained, and how the longitudinal section was prepared and the gradients laid down upon it so as to give, as near as possible, a balance of earthwork between cutting and embankment. The cross sections were next touched upon, and it was shown how from them was calculated the quantity of earthworks and how the side widths were obtained, which, marked upon the plan, showed the acreage of land which it was requisite to purchase for the making of the line.

The practical operations of railway construction were next considered. After referring to the forming of cuttings and embankments, and the methods adopted to prevent slips, the lecturer proceeded to the consideration of bridges which he divided under two heads, viz, arch and girder. Briefly referring to these classes and the principles of their construction, the lecturer passed on to the subject of tunnels, and explained with some degree of minuteness how this important and rather difficult class of work was carried out. A short reference to the method of laying the permanent way, comprising ballast, rails, sleepers, etc., brought the paper to a close.

The lecture was illustrated throughout by diagrams of the different works referred to, as well as by numerous sketches on the black board. A short discussion followed the reading of the paper, after which a vote of thanks to the lecturer terminated the proceedings.”