top of page
In 1887, the first mule-drawn streetcar rolled on freshly laid rails down Washington Street and the growth of Phoenix rolled with it, the first city in Arizona to embrace mass transit.
As the city grew, so did the trolley system. At its peak in the 20's, rails ran for over twenty miles along city streets carrying over 6 million passengers in 1929 alone. It was an integral part of daily life until 1947 when a trolley barn fire destroyed all but 8 cars. Qver the next year busses became the backbone of transportation in the valley.
Phoenix Trolley's Successor
Has Changed
Development
in the Valley
(Light Rail)
Read about Valley Metro's effect on Phoenix growth
Just as it did 120 years ago
Corporate
Sponsors
Today, the Phoenix Trolley Museum is dedicated to the preservation of original trolley cars, memorabilia and public education about a time and place that would one day become the 5th largest city in America.
Major Grants
We use the unique story of the Phoenix streetcar system to connect you with the city as it once was and what it's beginnings mean to those of us who live here today.
This three and a half minute video gives you a flavor the museum and some historical images of its history.
The Phoenix Trolley Museum
is a 501(c)3
non-profit organization
Ernie Workman, former President of the Museum and long time volunteer.
More Trolley Stories
bottom of page