The Time Travel Tour of Southampton. 120 Years ago! In the early 1900's, Southampton had transformed from a historic medieval town into a booming port and a "gateway to the world" The railways and docks expanded rapidly, becoming Britain's third-largest port for transatlantic passengers and cargo, a home to major shipyards and a hub for global trade. *The RMS Olympic at port, waiting for passengers to embark. *Trams wait for passengers at The Docks Railway Station at the end of Terminus Terrace.