Rails In Wolverhampton - The Early Years

by Bev Parker

Wednesfield Heath For Wolverhampton Station

Wolverhampton's first railway station opened unceremoniously with the arrival of Wildfire, the first locomotive, pulling the first train to run along the Grand Junction Railway on July 4th 1837. The station was situated about a mile from the centre of town at the rear of what is now the Culwell Industrial Estate off Woden Road, behind the Heath Town flats. The station was called Wednesfield Heath For Wolverhampton, and was designated as a first class station, which meant that all trains both first and mixed class stopped there. Each train waited for about ten minutes during which time they were checked over, loaded with coke, topped-up with water, and had their axles greased.

Initially the station failed to attract much business and so within a year the company began adding extra facilities.

A male waiting room and refreshment room were added for passengers, and a goods station was built.

An engine shed with accommodation for 2 to 3 engines was added along with an engine workshop and smithy facilities.

The station finally closed to passengers on Jan 1st 1873 but remained open for goods and parcels until 4th October 1965.

A little time later it was demolished, and all that now remains is part of the northern platform which is still edged with original stone sleepers from the railway.