Thomas & Friends Timeline ( Real )

book_publication
May 12, 1945

Publication of "The Railway Series"

The Railway Series books by Reverend W. Awdry, featuring the original stories of Thomas the Tank Engine and friends, began publication.

character_introduction
1950

Introduction of Thomas the Tank Engine in "The Railway Series"

Thomas the Tank Engine was introduced as a character in the Railway Series, gaining popularity among readers.

tv_show_launch
October 9, 1984

Debut of "Thomas & Friends" TV Series

The television adaptation of The Railway Series, titled "Thomas & Friends," premiered, bringing the characters to a wider audience.

animation_update
November 18, 2009

Introduction of CGI animation

The show transitioned from model animation to CGI animation, modernizing the appearance of characters and settings.

franchise_reboot
September 13, 2021

Rebranding to "Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go"

The franchise underwent a reboot with a new animation style and format titled "Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go," aimed at younger audiences.

Thomas & Friends Timeline ( Fictional )

character_introduction
Early Steam Era

Thomas Joins the Railway

Thomas arrives on the Island of Sodor and begins working as Edward's shunting engine at the North Western Railway.

story_arc
Early Steam Era

The Tank Engine Finds His Branch Line

Thomas is assigned to the branch line, where he carries passengers and goods, becoming a reliable and friendly engine.

character_introduction
Mid Steam Era

Introduction of Henry the Green Engine

Henry is introduced as a large green engine with a controversial reputation due to his issues with his design and use.

story_arc
Mid Steam Era

Rescue of James from the Mucky Mountains

James gets stuck in the Mucky Mountains and is rescued by Thomas and other engines, deepening their friendship.

story_arc
Late Steam Era

Diesel and the Troublesome Engines Arrive

Diesel and his gang cause trouble on the railways, challenging the steam engines' dominance and creating many obstacles.

heroic_event
Late Steam Era

Thomas Helps Out During the Snowstorm

Thomas works despite a severe snowstorm to keep services running and to help his friends get through difficult times.

milestone
Transition to Diesel Era

The Launch of the Flying Scotsman Express

Thomas and his friends assist in launching a fast express service connecting important parts of Sodor, showing progress.

villain_encounter
Transition to Diesel Era

Thomas and Friends Face the Diesel 10 Challenge

Diesel 10 arrives with a gripping claw to cause mischief and challenge the engines, but they band together to stop him.

story_arc
Modern Steam Era

The Big Rail Swap

Thomas and the engines participate in a large-scale rail swap, trading roles and routes to keep the railway running efficiently.

milestone
Modern Steam Era

Opening of the Sodor Steamworks Museum

A museum dedicated to steam engines, including Thomas and friends, opens on Sodor to celebrate their history and legacy.