ElectricTrams

Starting in the last decade of the 19th century, efforts toward the transition from animal traction to electric trams began to take shape. The construction of the first line started in 1890-1891, aiming to connect Tijuca to Alto da Boa Vista, and included the construction of a thermoelectric plant near the end of Rua Conde de Bonfim, a locality known today as Usina. However, obstacles arose, and the line only began operating in 1898. In the meantime, other electrification projects moved forward across the city.

Image description: This is a black-and-white photograph of an electric streetcar. On the left side, we see a stone wall with vegetation. In the center, there is a streetcar with empty seats and a metal structure. On the right, there is a building with a corrugated metal roof. In the background, there is a house with balconies and windows. In the lower right corner, there is a sign with legible text.

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Imagem 1 de 2: C. F. C. Carioca – Bonde – 11/04/1907 – Augusto Malta

On many lines there were first-class and second-class cars – the latter, smaller and simpler, had no motor and were pulled by the former. On them one paid less, and citizens of the less-favored classes traveled. This system persisted until the mid-20th century throughout the city. Below, three photographs showing second-class streetcars.

Image description: This is a black-and-white photograph of an electric streetcar in motion. The image shows a street with buildings in the background and an overhead line of telephone wires. In the center, there is a streetcar with several people sitting and standing inside it. On the left, two men are walking along the sidewalk. In the background, there are buildings and a hill with trees. In the lower left, there is an inscription that reads "Light and Power C Villa Isabel".

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Imagem 1 de 3: Villa C. Izabel [Vila Isabel] – 26/04/1907 – Augusto Malta

Next, we see some other models of trams – these, electric – which continued to serve other demands of the population, rather than conventional passenger transport. The ceroula tram ran during the lyric opera seasons, with its seats covered to protect its passengers' outfits, as well as lending a certain air of elegance and rigor to the ride.

Image description: This is an old photograph of an electric streetcar. The image shows the interior of the vehicle, with comfortable seats arranged in parallel rows. On the left and right, we see large windows that allow natural light to enter. In the center, there is a wide aisle leading to the back, where the tunnel and other electric streetcars can be seen. The ceiling is decorated with ornamental patterns and hanging chandeliers. At the bottom of the image, there is an inscription that reads "No126 Rio JUNE 7-12 Luxo Car".

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Imagem 1 de 2: Luxo Car [Bonde de Luxo] – 07/06/1912 – Mortimer

After the introduction of electric trams, the Postal Service continued fulfilling its mission with the new models.

Image description: This is an old photograph of an electric streetcar. In the center, we see a public transport vehicle with the inscription "CORREIO" and "SERVIÇO POSTAL" in large, clear letters. The number "721" is visible on two different parts of the vehicle. On the left, there is a small box with the number "0". In the background, we see a classic building with traditional architecture, and on the right, part of a white wall. The sky is clear and cloudless. At the bottom of the image, it reads "Rio Mail car german truck".

Furthermore, the freight trams became larger and even more essential and present in the city's economy. “Use freight trams. It's a safe service,” said the ad. In this photo, we see the tram serving the merchants of the Mercado Municipal, then located at Praça XV.

Image description: This is a historic photograph of an electric streetcar in front of a railway station. The image is black and white, showing a track with a streetcar stopped on the right. On the left, several people are carrying sacks and baskets, while others work near the tracks. In the center, a building with metal structures and a tiled roof is visible. On the right, there is a large industrial building with windows and doors. On the side of the streetcar, the words "BAGAGEIRO" and "762" are written.

A public assistance streetcar. There was even a special streetcar for contagious patients.

Image description: This is a black and white photograph of an electric streetcar. The image shows the streetcar from the front, with the rear section open, revealing its internal structure. On the left, we see the open door, allowing a clear view of the interior. The streetcar is stopped at a platform, with trees and palm trees in the background, suggesting an urban setting. The number "731" is visible on the upper part of the streetcar. On the side, the words "ASSISTENCIA PUBLICA" are written in large, clear letters.