The Enigma of U.S. Railroad Gauges: Debunking the Myth of Ancient Roman Chariots

For decades, it has been a popular belief that the standard railroad gauge in the United States is based on the dimensions of Roman chariots. However, this notion is merely a myth, with the standardized gauge more intricately linked to practicalities and technological advancements of the 19th century.

The standard gauge for railroads in the United States is 4 feet 8.5 inches, or 1435 mm. This gauge was largely influenced by early railroads in the United Kingdom, which adopted a gauge of 4 feet 8 inches. This choice was influenced by the dimensions of existing wagon wheels and the tracks used in coal mines. Furthermore, George Stephenson, a key figure in early railroads, made use of this gauge for his locomotives and railways in the early 19th century and it was widely adopted.

The Roots of U.S. Railroad Gauges

The myth surrounding Roman chariots connects the wheel spacing of ancient vehicles to the modern railroad gauge. However, the actual development of railroad gauges is more intricately tied to the practicalities and technologies of the 19th century rather than ancient wheel designs.

The Myth Debunked

Carmel’s explanation of the myth echoes the sentiment that the gauge was established because "we've always done it this way." It highlights the practical reasons behind the standard gauge, which include the availability of existing equipment and the standard width of wagon wheels. The myth also ties into the ruts found on old English roads, which were made by Roman chariots. However, the reality is that the standard gauge in the U.S. trace their origins back to practical engineering decisions rather than ancient designs.

Prehistoric Evidence from Malta

In contrast to the myth, there is evidence from prehistoric Malta that provides a fascinating link to the origins of railroad gauges. In Malta, prehistoric cart tracks dating back to 6000 BC have been discovered. These tracks, which can be as deep as 60 centimeters and measure about 140 centimeters in width, have drawn considerable attention. One notable site, San Gwann, features cart tracks that are said to be half a meter deep, making them the deepest to be found.

The width of these prehistoric cart tracks is 140 centimeters, or 4 feet 7.12 inches. This suggests that the prehistoric wheeled vehicles in Malta operated under a similar gauge to the modern U.S. railroad. These discoveries highlight the intricate connections between ancient and modern transportation systems.

Conclusion and Future Implications

The evidence from prehistoric Malta underscores the complex origins of railroad gauges. While the myth of Roman chariots adds an intriguing layer to the history of transportation, the reality is rooted in practical and technical considerations of the period. The prehistoric tracks in Malta provide further insight into the evolution of transportation systems and the importance of standardization in engineering.

For those interested in exploring these ancient tracks, the sites in Malta, one of which is whimsically referred to as "Clapham Junction," offer a unique opportunity to see these historical remnants. These tracks stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient technologies and the evolution of modern transportation.