It was the late 1890s and the era of the steam wagon had arrived. Several small engineering firms started building their prototype steam wagons with hopes pinned on future riches, but were soon to discover that it was a much more complicated job than first thought, with many ideas and experiments falling by the wayside.
From these early pioneers many famous names were to evolve, not least Edwin Foden, who built his first wagon in 1897 and who was soon to become market leader.

Fig. 1 Burrell's first experimental wagon, No 3276. The unusual-looking awning was not to last for it was replaced before the wagon was sold.

In 1901 the Government announced trials of steam wagons for the benefit of the military. These trials, followed by those held in Liverpool, really kick-started the industry. By 1903 Foden had already built 36 wagons while Burrell seemed reticent to get involved. Mention has been made of drawings that still exist of a 1901-designed wagon, but no proof has been found that it was ever built.
After many years of contemplation and no doubt seeing how many of their contemporaries were involved, the company produced four experimental wagons in 1911.
The first, No 3276 (Fig. 1) was fitted with Ackerman steering while the last three,Nos 3289 (Fig. 2), 3290 and 3303 had the ordinary barrel and chain steering.
All four had DCC (double crank compound cylinders) cylinders of 41 8 and 7in bores with a stroke of 71 2in with a working pressure of 200lb psi.

Fig. 2 The second experimental wagon, No 3289, seen on its acceptance test. It was the first Burrell wagon to be delivered to a customer.

The first, No 3276, was licensed in July 1911, receiving the registration AH 0101. According to the records it was used as a demonstrator, but I would think that it was also used for development work. During this time, the Ackerman steering was replaced by the more orthodox barrel and chain type, and a new awning fitted.
In July 1915 it was sold to Arthur Baldock of Dover, Kent.

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