In my previous post I noted that the Woodland Scenics medium grained cinders seemed to look more like coal. But what does the ground look like around real outside shed roads? If my memory serves me well, then the ground was black, often wet, and much finer grained than typical track ballast.

I recently read (in the latest Heritage Railway, I think) that many heritage railways have now restricted access to their engine sheds and workshop areas, citing the usual H & S dogma. Accidents can and do happen, so this is understandable.

So, back in time to 2006 and a photo of City of Truro being prepared for a Fire and Drive day on the G&WR. I got there early and helped to clean the loco as well as take a few early morning photos. This shot has been enhanced a bit, using a trial version of Intensify Pro. Very memorable for me as I later fired and drove the legend as part of a 60th birthday gift from my Better Half. However, in this post the ground under the loco is a useful guide.

It confirms my memory of fine grained texture but there is a scattered mix of brown stones in there. Damp areas show up as well. So this will help to get the ground surface right. Also worth noting are the very fine grooves made by the wheels - this will not be possible to emulate given the relative coarseness of even fine scale wheels in OO gauge.

EDIT!!

I now remember another shot taken a few years ago of 7802 Bradley Manor at the SVR engine shed at Bridgnorth. This also has some useful features, though some may not be representative of the 1950s.

The concrete hard standing alongside the loco may be a modern concept but the color variations are interesting. As is the surface between the rails, for here the tops of the sleepers are just visible, unlike at Toddington above.