Built in 1914 by Duncan and Fraser for the Prahran and Malvern Tramways Trust and ran as number 41. Retained this number when classed “E” by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board. Sold to the SEC in 1951 and renumbered 38. Altered to its present form in 1953 to permit one-man operation, but was not used as a one-man car due to Trade Union opposition. This car was repainted by the Society in the early 1960’s SEC livery.
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MUSEUM STATUS
Operational vehicle, general use in museum service.
History
1914 – Delivered to Prahran and Malvern Tramways Trust as tram No 41.
1920 – Taken over by Melbourne & Metropolitan Tramways Board as No. 41, class E.
1951 – Sold to State Electricity Commission of Victoria for use on the Ballarat tramway system as No. 38.
1953 – Converted for one-man operation – centre doorway closed, swinging doors fitted to other entrances. Limited use as such due to industrial bans.
1954 – Decorated for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to Ballarat.
1971 – Acquired by the BTPS.
1979 – Repainted in early 1960’s SEC colour scheme.
Historical Significance
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HISTORIC
Historic – Bogie or eight wheel tramcar, fitted with a type of bogie known as a maximum traction – one motor each bogie. Although built in 1914 for Melbourne, when operated in Ballarat, was considered as a “modern” tramcar compared to the four wheelers. Was modified by enclosing the central open section to operate as a one man tram – but limited use due to industrial bans. Operated in Ballarat with a conductor. Was decorated for the 1954 visit of the Queen. Painted by the BTM to represent the trams in the 1960’s livery after the fitting of marker lights and tiger stripes.
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TECHNICAL
Maximum traction bogie tram that underwent modifications for one – man operation. Shows the nature of these modifications.
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PROVENANCE
known in detail – see Fleet Register sheet.
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SOCIAL
One-Man operation of bogie trams banned by the tramways union, showing their strength. Did not occur until the 1990’s in Melbourne.
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RARITY
Of the three one man SEC conversions of this type of tramcar (one each in Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong), the only example left operating in an Australian tramway museum in this form.
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condition integrity
remains in operable condition, though pending an overall.
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interpretive potential
shows the form and colour scheme of Ballarat Trams in the mid 1930’s and will be available for use in Wendouree Parade for visitor hands on experience after an overhaul is undertaken.
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conservation plan
Retain in early 1960's SEC Colour Scheme with marker lights.
Technical Details
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TYPE
Maximum Traction truck, bogie, drop end and centre combination.
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WHEELBASE
4' 0" (1.22m)
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LENGTH
44' 3.5" (13.50m)
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WIDTH
8' 7" (2.62m)
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APPROXIMATE MASS
15.4 tons (15.71 tonnes) as modified
