We had a bit of mystery for today’s Picture in Time as we head to the Manx Electric Railway back in the 1960s for an image of a tram as we weren’t sure what the tram was but we have now had confirmation that it is indeed Tunnel Car 7!
This photo was taken in August 1963 and is a side on view of a tram just poking out of the sheds although the number wasn’t visible. We originally summised it was a Tunnel Car thanks to the profile of the tram but that was where our clues kind of ended! We knew it wasn’t 4 or 8, both of which had been destroyed in the 1930 Laxey shed fire but couldn’t confirm any further than this. But with thanks to the guys at Manx Electric Railway Online we have now received confirmation that it is indeed Tunnel Car 7 due to the livery carried. Also seen in this image is another car is just inside the shed.
Photograph by Bob Hodges
Could it not be a winter saloon?
It could be. The windows led me to think it wasn’t but if anyone can correct me I will happily update the article!
It is definitely a tunnel car. If it was a winter saloon there would be no more than eight saloon side windows. There is a clue mid way along the body side panels beneath the windows – the legend MER. Although a couple of cars, including winter saloons had MER on the side during the mid 60’s I personally have only seen pictures of tunnel car 7 and winter saloon 19 in this condition. Although dark, there is no sign of lining on the car illustrated, car 5 was fully lined in the mid 60’s. Car 9 was in plain livery but did not have the MER legend and was also fitted with snowploughs at the time I believe, not visible in the above picture. So I think it could be 6 or 7, my money is on car 7.
And your money is safe, David! With thanks to the guys at Manx Electric Railway Online we have had confirmation that it is indeed Tunnel Car no. 7.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to help solve the mystery!