A Field Guide to Trolley Cars


Biddeford & Saco Railroad Car #31, Saco, 1935

Biddeford & Saco Railroad Car #31, Saco, 1935
Item 50685   info
Seashore Trolley Museum

Open car

Open cars were generally in use during the summer months for city and suburban service. Open cars had a roof, floor, and end bulkheads, but no sides.

The seats typically extended across the car. Canvas curtains mounted between the side posts could be pulled down to the floor during summer squalls to protect passengers from wind and rain.

Open cars are often referred to by the number of seats or benches provided: a 14-bench car, for example.

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