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Gallery 892: Around the World in Trams Special - Duquesne Incline Railway, Pittsburgh June 2018

As we again head to the United States of America this time we feature the Duquesne Incline Railway in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania which first opened to the public on 17th May 1877. Linking the south shore area of Pittsburgh with the community of Mount Washington this double track incline railway has a 30 degree angle of incline, is 800 foot long and runs on a gauge of five feet. The two vehicles which operate the service - the north and south cars - are the originals which have been running since 1877, alebit rebuilt several times over the years. Originally powered by a Corliss steam engine the line transferred to electric power in 1932 with the hoisiting machinery located at the summit of the line, unusually at a right angle to the railway. Closing on 21st November 1962 for repairs it was initially decided that this would be a permanent closure but local fundraising - spearheaded by a local Boy Scout troop! - raised the $15,000 required and the repairs were undertaken with the line re-opening on 1st July 1963. Since 1964 it has been operated by the non-profit Society for the Preservation of the Duquesne Heighs Incline.

Photographer: Edward M. Koehler Jr.
All Photographs taken on Friday 22nd June 2018

Cars Pass

Cables

North Car

Hoisting Station information

Fare Receipt

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