The first reactions to the railways include:
- wonder at the new technology (e.g. bar099 Dublin Steam Coach);
- worry about the likely effects on established businesses (e.g. bar564 Newcastle and North Shields Railway)
- anticipation of the new opportunities (e.g. bar141 Great Western Railroad)
- and delight in the downfall of the stagecoaches which were unpopular among the masses (e.g. bar480 Wonderful Effects of the Leicester Railroad)