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.
9. Trams on Pinstone Street
Tram no 470 on Pinstone Street, in Sheffield city centre, in 1953, with Roberts Bros, Rockingham House andNelson Hotel visible Photo: Picture Sheffield/R.J.S. Wiseman
10. Trams on Ecclesall Road
Trams on Ecclesall Road at Hunter's Bar, Sheffield, taken from an old 'Newcastle' tram in 1954 Photo: Picture Sheffield
11. Trams at Nether Green
Trams no 397 and 385 at Nether Green, Sheffield, with the school in the background Photo: Picture Sheffield
12. Tram in Millhouses
Tram no 311 at Millhouses 'loop', on Abbeydale Road South, Sheffield Photo: Picture Sheffield