The Supertram network launched in 1994, marking the return of trams to Sheffield for the first time in more than 30 years. But these photos show how the old tram network, on which the final journeys ran on October 8, 1960, was much more extensive.
Walkley, Crookes, Firth Park, Fulwood, Nether Edge, Beauchief, Meadowhead and Handsworth were just some of the suburbs served by trams back then. The first tram line opened 150 years ago in 1873, between Lady’s Bridge and Attercliffe, with the vehicles pulled by horses back then. The first electric tram ran from Nether Edge to Tinsley in 1899 and within three years the entire system was electrified.
By 1951, the Sheffield Tramway Company’s network covered 48 miles, compared with 18 miles today. But the first routes were closed the following year and the remainder in the years leading to 1960, when the final tram services ran with great ceremony to mark their loss.
This retro photo gallery shows trams running across Sheffield during their heyday, between 1940 and 1959. All the photos featured are shared courtesy of Picture Sheffield.
5. Tram travelling past Manchester Hotel
Tram no 289 travelling past Manchester Hotel in the Wicker area of Sheffield during the late 1950s, with John Aizelwood Ltd and Crown Flour Mill, on Nursery Street, both visible, and Bridgehouses Goods Station in the background Photo: Picture Sheffield/D. J. Smithies
6. Tram on Queens Road
Tram no 85 travelling past the bus and tram depot on Queens Road, Sheffield, in the late 1950s Photo: Picture Sheffield/Mr. D.J. Smithies
7. Tram at Shoreham Street depot
Ex-Newcastle tram no 315, taken outside Shoreham Street tram depot in Sheffield in 1950 Photo: Picture Sheffield/Trevor Elliott
8. Tram on Nursery Street
A tram travelling along Nursery Street, Sheffield, alongside Bridgehouses Goods Station Photo: Picture Sheffield