Trolley Museum celebrates 50 years
It’s hard to imagine that even 50 years ago, transportation via streetcars was rapidly declining. So much so that on June 23, 1963, the PA Trolley Museum, Pennsylvania’s first operating trolley museum, opened, offering a glimpse into a different era.
The legacy continues June 22 and 23, as the PA Trolley Museum celebrates its golden anniversary.
Festivities kick off June 22 with “All the Streetcars You Desire,” featuring trolley parades, food venders and tours of the Trib Total Media Trolley Display Building and the Museum Restoration Shop, as well as a children’s activity area and unlimited trolley rides.
Mr. McFeely, from “Mister Rodgers’ Neighborhood,” and Pittsburgh artist Linda Barnicott will be in attendance.
On June 23, the museum hosts a Classic Car Show. In addition to more than 50 classic cars on display, Disc Jockeys Fritz and Judy will spin classic tunes.
“It should be a lot of fun,” said Scott Becker, executive director of the Trolley Museum. “We’ve come a long way and we hope people come out and enjoy themselves.”
The museum remains one of Washington’s biggest industries, hosting a record-breaking 30,000 visitors just last year. It holds a collection of 45 refurbished trolleys, including a 1923 New Orleans Perley A. Thomas Car Co. #832, which formerly used the Desire line featured in “A Streetcar Named Desire.”
“Our mission is to interpret and preserve the trolley era,” Becker said. “Back in the day, people would use trolleys to go everywhere. Today, it’s fascinating to see how things have changed.”
Admission to the events is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for children ages 3-15, and free for children under 3. Advance tickets and two-day passes are also available.
For more information, call 724-228-9256 or visit www.patrolley.org.