This engaging account introduces readers to a remarkable range of transportation firsts and other related developments that occurred within the Lea Valley region of London. From the Thames Ironworks, which gave birth to the HMS Warrior the world's first ironclad battle cruiser, to the Great Eastern Railway works, where innovative engines were designed and built, this study covers both the historic and modern engineering feats of the region. This work also introduces readers to a fascinating series of people--from pilot and aircraft manufacturer A. V. Roe to J. A. Prestwich and the development of motorcycles.