The Cité du Train-Patrimoine SNCF (City of Train) exhibits an entire switch lever system. It is essential for directing trains on the tracks. During the 19th and most of the 20th century, the switchman’s life was very stressful. They had to prepare the path of trains which they could not yet see by pulling heavy levers. They had to run quickly from one lever to another and manoeuvre them with force, using their foot. Today, the signal box is fully automated, but the man is still in charge of train control and passenger safety.