Link for Milton
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Doncaster Tram
The expansion of metropolitan train services bypassed Doncaster. Attempts were made to get train services, but unsuccessfully. A homemade tourist attraction was the building of a lookout tower in 1877 on a hill beside Doncaster Road. It attracted visitors from the International Exhibition in Melbourne in 1888. The exhibition also featured an electric tram, which became a prototype for a service from Box Hill to Doncaster in 1889. The service lasted until 1896, and tram trips to the lookout tower were a popular recreation.
Source: Extract from http://www.victorianplaces.com.au/doncaster May2017
The Royal Exhibition Building
0n 1 October 1880, the Melbourne Exhibition Buildings were opened. It was a great day for the people of Melbourne who saw it as proclaiming the maturity of the colony. They celebrated, for here was proof of having made it as a nation. Melbourne, a town of only 200 000 had built a magnificent building and invited the world to come and show its wares. Victoria proudly displayed its manufactures and produce. The many halls and temporary buildings housed machinery, manufactures, horticulture displays, clothing, mining, agriculture, farm produce, fruit and dairy produce.
George Smith of Bulleen entered a sample of cheese from his farm in Thompsons Road and won first prize.
On 1 October 1980, the centenary of this exhibition was celebrated with Princess Alexandra declaring the one remaining section of the building as 'The Royal Exhibition Building'.
In 1888, the exhibition was repeated, again on a massive scale. Row after row of temporary buildings filled the area north of the main hall right up to Carlton Street.
At the extreme north, running from Nicholson Street to Rathdown Street, an electric tram ran on a demonstration track. When the exhibition closed, the tram with all its equipment was purchased by a newly formed company and became the Box Hill to Doncaster Tram.
Source: 1980 11 DTHS Newsletter
The tram you will see on your visit is a replica of the Box Hill - Doncaster Tram that ran from 1889 to 1896 along the line of Tram Road.
People used to travel by train from Princes Bridge Station to Box Hill and then by tram to climb the Beaconsfield tower for the magnificent views from the top.
The tower, built by Alfred Hummel, stood from 1879 to 1914 on Doncaster Hill near where Doncaster Shoppingtown is today.
Last year on Australia Day, our tram was displayed at the Pageant of Transport. The Tramways Historical Society invited us to take part again this year. The tram was placed on a branch line at the Hoddle Street end of Wellington Parade where horse trams were operating. We have to thank the Doncaster-Templestowe Council for their co-operation in transporting the tram on this day.
Claude and Shirley Symons, Robyn Horne, Peter Dignum and Lisa Curtis enthusiastically offered to act as attendants during the day and Peter Dignum provided a tent to protect the displays and material for sale.
Source: 1981 02 DTHS Newsletter
It all began when an electrically powered tramcar was demonstrated at the Centennial International Exhibition in
Melbourne in 1888. At the close of the exhibition the tramcar was purchased by the Box Hill and Doncaster Electric Tramway Company Limited.
Many shareholders in the Company stood to make fortunes with this land if the tramway could induce people to buy homesites in the district. Melbourne was experiencing a frenetic land boom and new suburbs were being virtually created 'overnight*.
The railway line had been extended to Box Hill by 1882, and so a quick and easy means of commuting to and from Melbourne would be available to the residents of Doncaster. But the tramway company also planned to profit from the weekend trippers who came to Doncaster to climb the famous lookout tower which stood 87 metres high on Doncaster Hill. Doncaster was a picturesque district of orchards and farms and spectacular views could be had from the tower.
There was strong opposition to the tramway from a group of Doncaster people who believed it gave the government an excuse to shelve the Doncaster Railway Bill. Their resentment even extended to acts of sabotage during the.time the line was being constructed.
The first trip was made on 14 October 1889. It was celebrated with a banquet at the Tower Hotel at Doncaster which was attended by Members of Parliament and other dignatories.
From its terminus beside the Box Hill Post Office at Whitehorse Road, the tramway traversed the main street (Station Street) of Box Hill, then passed through various private properties, the owners having given permission, to the corner of Doncaster and Williamsons Roads, Doncaster. The engine house where the current was generated was at Bushv Creek, near Wimmera Street, Box Hill.
For a while the tram ran profitably. It met every train at Box Hill.
The cost of a return fare to Melbourne from Doncaster was one shilling and sixpence, and a return fare from Box Hill to Doncaster was ninepence. The tram trip took 16 minutes and the Railway section took 35 minutes. The number of passengers encouraged the tramway company to order a second tram car which was more comfortable and powerful.
By early 1891 ominous clouds had risen on the horizon. The South Doncaster Estate Company decided to withdraw its permission for the tram to cross its land. This brought operations to a halt. The tramway company was faced with bankruptcy and a meeting of shareholders was called to approve of its being wound up.
Meanwhile a feud took place. Fences were erected to stop the tram crossing the South Doncaster Estate land. These were chopped down but rails were lifted and tram poles chopped down. Public feeling was behind the tramway. Finally an effigy of the secretary of the land company was suspended from the crosswire at the Doncaster Road terminus. Attached was a placard which read "A.E Tankard, Sad! Sad/ The sad effects of rail lifting. The above will be burnt in effigy on Saturday evening at 8 pm. All are cordially invited".
A huge crowd attended and a mock funeral took place When a box of animal bones was carried to the land company's property and burned with due solemnity.
Even this did not save the Box Hill and Doncaster Electric Tramway Company Limited. Ironically the South Doncaster Estate Company, also born of the land boom, died when the bubble burst. It folded in December 1891. On the other hand the tramway company was reborn when a new company called the Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company Limited was registered, on 25 January 1892, to take over the operations of the old company.
Mr. Henry J. Hilton was appointed engineer and the tram resumed operations in March. The following Easter Monday over 1500 people were carried. However, the trams days were numbered.
The reaction to the land boom was worsening. People were poorer and were travelling less. The tram timetable was altered to reduce operating expenses. In desperation the Tram Company let the two cars and all the equipment to Mr. Hilton for the sum of one shilling per week, provided Mr. Hilton maintained everything in good condition. For nearly two years Hilton and his brother worked desperately to keep the tram running. But to no avail. Passengers dropped to nearly zero, and there seemed no likelihood of improvement. The tram ran its last trip on 6 January 1896. The tram cars and other equipment were sold.
The legacy of the tramway is the thoroughfare known as Tram Road and Station Street. The old tram route remained private property until 1901 when the several owners donated a strip land to make a shorter route to Box Hill station.
A faithful full sized replica of the first Box Hill to Doncaster Tram is now on permanent display at Schramm's Cottage, Doncaster.
Source: Ken Smith: Published by DTHS in 1980 in a booklet titles "The Tower & The Tram" ISBN 095009207X See Original Scan.
On 1 October 1980, the centenary of this exhibition was celebrated with Princess Alexandra declaring the one remaining section of the building as 'The Royal Exhibition Building'.
In 1888, the exhibition was repeated, again on a massive scale. Row after row of temporary buildings filled the area north of the main hall right up to Carlton Street.
At the extreme north, running from Nicholson Street to Rathdown Street, an electric tram ran on a demonstration track. When the exhibition closed, the tram with all its equipment was purchased by a newly formed company and became the Box Hill to Doncaster Tram.
Source: 1980 11 DTHS Newsletter
The tram you will see on your visit is a replica of the Box Hill - Doncaster Tram that ran from 1889 to 1896 along the line of Tram Road.
People used to travel by train from Princes Bridge Station to Box Hill and then by tram to climb the Beaconsfield tower for the magnificent views from the top.
The tower, built by Alfred Hummel, stood from 1879 to 1914 on Doncaster Hill near where Doncaster Shoppingtown is today.
'The "Tram Shed" is almost finished.
With its high, curved roof, this distinctive building has added interest to Schramms' Grounds. Most of the work and organising has been carried out by Claude Symone. Claude has been helped by Shirley and Greg Symone, Peter Dignum, John Tully, Peter Binks, Mrs Phyllis Burgess and Lachlan Roffney. There is still work to be done and volunteers are needed to complete the shed.Last year on Australia Day, our tram was displayed at the Pageant of Transport. The Tramways Historical Society invited us to take part again this year. The tram was placed on a branch line at the Hoddle Street end of Wellington Parade where horse trams were operating. We have to thank the Doncaster-Templestowe Council for their co-operation in transporting the tram on this day.
Claude and Shirley Symons, Robyn Horne, Peter Dignum and Lisa Curtis enthusiastically offered to act as attendants during the day and Peter Dignum provided a tent to protect the displays and material for sale.
Source: 1981 02 DTHS Newsletter
The tram
The first electric tramway in the Southern Hemisphere ran between Doncaster and Box Hill, a distance of three and a half kilometers. The Tram began operating on 14 October 1889, with great optimism for the future, but made its last trip on 6 January 1896 amid general economic gloom.It all began when an electrically powered tramcar was demonstrated at the Centennial International Exhibition in
Melbourne in 1888. At the close of the exhibition the tramcar was purchased by the Box Hill and Doncaster Electric Tramway Company Limited.
Many shareholders in the Company stood to make fortunes with this land if the tramway could induce people to buy homesites in the district. Melbourne was experiencing a frenetic land boom and new suburbs were being virtually created 'overnight*.
The railway line had been extended to Box Hill by 1882, and so a quick and easy means of commuting to and from Melbourne would be available to the residents of Doncaster. But the tramway company also planned to profit from the weekend trippers who came to Doncaster to climb the famous lookout tower which stood 87 metres high on Doncaster Hill. Doncaster was a picturesque district of orchards and farms and spectacular views could be had from the tower.
There was strong opposition to the tramway from a group of Doncaster people who believed it gave the government an excuse to shelve the Doncaster Railway Bill. Their resentment even extended to acts of sabotage during the.time the line was being constructed.
The first trip was made on 14 October 1889. It was celebrated with a banquet at the Tower Hotel at Doncaster which was attended by Members of Parliament and other dignatories.
From its terminus beside the Box Hill Post Office at Whitehorse Road, the tramway traversed the main street (Station Street) of Box Hill, then passed through various private properties, the owners having given permission, to the corner of Doncaster and Williamsons Roads, Doncaster. The engine house where the current was generated was at Bushv Creek, near Wimmera Street, Box Hill.
For a while the tram ran profitably. It met every train at Box Hill.
The cost of a return fare to Melbourne from Doncaster was one shilling and sixpence, and a return fare from Box Hill to Doncaster was ninepence. The tram trip took 16 minutes and the Railway section took 35 minutes. The number of passengers encouraged the tramway company to order a second tram car which was more comfortable and powerful.
By early 1891 ominous clouds had risen on the horizon. The South Doncaster Estate Company decided to withdraw its permission for the tram to cross its land. This brought operations to a halt. The tramway company was faced with bankruptcy and a meeting of shareholders was called to approve of its being wound up.
Meanwhile a feud took place. Fences were erected to stop the tram crossing the South Doncaster Estate land. These were chopped down but rails were lifted and tram poles chopped down. Public feeling was behind the tramway. Finally an effigy of the secretary of the land company was suspended from the crosswire at the Doncaster Road terminus. Attached was a placard which read "A.E Tankard, Sad! Sad/ The sad effects of rail lifting. The above will be burnt in effigy on Saturday evening at 8 pm. All are cordially invited".
The Second Tram Bought by The Tram Company
A huge crowd attended and a mock funeral took place When a box of animal bones was carried to the land company's property and burned with due solemnity.
Even this did not save the Box Hill and Doncaster Electric Tramway Company Limited. Ironically the South Doncaster Estate Company, also born of the land boom, died when the bubble burst. It folded in December 1891. On the other hand the tramway company was reborn when a new company called the Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company Limited was registered, on 25 January 1892, to take over the operations of the old company.
Mr. Henry J. Hilton was appointed engineer and the tram resumed operations in March. The following Easter Monday over 1500 people were carried. However, the trams days were numbered.
The reaction to the land boom was worsening. People were poorer and were travelling less. The tram timetable was altered to reduce operating expenses. In desperation the Tram Company let the two cars and all the equipment to Mr. Hilton for the sum of one shilling per week, provided Mr. Hilton maintained everything in good condition. For nearly two years Hilton and his brother worked desperately to keep the tram running. But to no avail. Passengers dropped to nearly zero, and there seemed no likelihood of improvement. The tram ran its last trip on 6 January 1896. The tram cars and other equipment were sold.
The legacy of the tramway is the thoroughfare known as Tram Road and Station Street. The old tram route remained private property until 1901 when the several owners donated a strip land to make a shorter route to Box Hill station.
A faithful full sized replica of the first Box Hill to Doncaster Tram is now on permanent display at Schramm's Cottage, Doncaster.
Source: Ken Smith: Published by DTHS in 1980 in a booklet titles "The Tower & The Tram" ISBN 095009207X See Original Scan.
AUSTRALIA'S FIRST ELECTRIC TRAM
The replica of the Box Hill-Doncaster Tram, that was built by the council for the Wurundjeri Parade this year, is to be kept at Schramm's Cottage. It is a faithful reproduction of the original tram that ran along Tram Road from Whitehorse Road, Box Hill, to Doncaster Road from 1889 to 1896. Electricity was supplied from a powerhouse in a valley half-way along the tram route. Our architect, Mark Wierzbowski has designed a shed to house the Tram. This shed has the character of a building of the 1890's. It has a framework of iron piping with a curved corrugated iron roof. It is to be erected by our members so we will be looking to you for help with this project.Source: 1979 08 DTHS Newsletter
The Box Hill Doncaster Tram
At the Wurundjeri Parade this year, the engineering department of our council entered a replica of the Box Hill-Doncaster Tram. The staff of the engineering department had built a faithful replica of this historic tram. Members of the Historical Society, in period costume, travelled as passengers, adding the right atmosphere to complete the historical recreation. The entry won the Commonwealth Bank award for a novelty float.
In October, 1889, the tram started running from Box Hill to Doncaster. It was the first electric tram in Australia. The tram was imported for the great Exhibition in 1888 and ran on a demonstration track at the north of the Carlton Gardens.
Another electric tram commenced a service at Bendigo in 1890. Batteries were used to supply the power. Although the 56-cell batteries were planned to give a range of 30 miles, they soon became weak and often trams could not make it back to the terminus. After two years the line was converted to steam until 1903, when electric trams were installed.
In Melbourne, the first cable tram ran along Flinders Street to Richmond in 1885. It was not until 1906 that an electric service was introduced when the Victorian Railways opened their line from St Kilda Station to Middle Brighton.
The same year another electric line was built at Essendon. By 1920 several electric tram lines were in operation, and during the next ten years cable tram routes were being converted to electric.
1979 05 DTHS Newsletter
Another electric tram commenced a service at Bendigo in 1890. Batteries were used to supply the power. Although the 56-cell batteries were planned to give a range of 30 miles, they soon became weak and often trams could not make it back to the terminus. After two years the line was converted to steam until 1903, when electric trams were installed.
In Melbourne, the first cable tram ran along Flinders Street to Richmond in 1885. It was not until 1906 that an electric service was introduced when the Victorian Railways opened their line from St Kilda Station to Middle Brighton.
The same year another electric line was built at Essendon. By 1920 several electric tram lines were in operation, and during the next ten years cable tram routes were being converted to electric.
1979 05 DTHS Newsletter
Doncaster Tram
In the 1880s, an observation tower 285 feet high was built on the hill Doncaster, which attracted trippers to what was then the countryside.Doncaster is the location of the first electric streetcar to run in Melbourne in 1889. The tram started to Doncaster ended in Box Hill about 5 km 3 Therefore, he was appointed road Tram However, the service does not earned no profit, it ended in 1896 because of disputes with landowners and financial problems 6 the main road through the suburb, Doncaster road, was officially named main Street.
Doncaster was set with the first electric tram in the southern hemisphere in the late 19th century exploitation of Box Hill in Doncaster along what is now the tram route, the tram opened access much land in the area Unfortunately, the line did not last more than a few years.
The east-west main road Doncaster road leads to Donvale Kew Highway is completed in Doncaster Road at the western end of the suburb from 1983 to 1997 in December.
As a result of a decision by the Victorian Labor government Cain the Step 2 section of Bulleen Road to Doncaster road was only two lanes in each direction during this period Doncaster suffered from heavy traffic congestion and air pollution Doncaster are carried 60,000 vehicles per day in main artery Since the Kennett government extended the highway is along the path of the stream Koonung in Springvale Road Doncaster s per traffic has decreased significantly.
Throughout the 1970s, the Doncaster line was provided by the state government to run in the middle of the eastern highway, with a land acquired for the line, but it was sold in the 1980s 7 various projects have also been made for the extension of Route 48 north to Doncaster Tram 8 bus lines currently exist in the running area of a park center and walk along lanes city transport.
Source: Extract from: http://germancar-2017.blogspot.com.au/2017/06/doncaster-victoria.html
Australia's first electric tram
Melbournes first Tram. 1889 From Doncaster to Box Hill. Down what is now known as Tram road. 9A road without a tram). DP0752
The figure standing with hand on control is A. J. Arnot who was Electrical Engineer for Melbourne City Council. Note the hoardings. These were covered by land selling companies' advertisements extolling the advantages of buying land in the vicinity.
Source: Australia's first electric tram - JK Moir 1940 1940 http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/133286
DTHS DP0752
Australia’s first electric tram: the Box Hill to Doncaster tramway
Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company tramcar No 2.
La Trobe collection, State Library of Victoria.
From October 1889 until January 1896, an electric tram ran between the Box Hill Post Office, on the corner of Whitehorse Road and Station Street, and a terminus near the intersection of Elgar and Doncaster Roads, Doncaster. It was the first electric tram in Australia, and the southern hemisphere, to operate as a regular service. The history of this pioneer electric tramway is a story of technical innovation, initiative and perseverance by the early settlers at a time when Box Hill was a small but growing township.
The origin of the Box Hill-Doncaster electric tramway dates from the Centennial International Exhibition, held at the Exhibition Buildings, Melbourne, in 1888-89. Among the unusual attractions at this elaborate event was a working electric tramway exhibited by the electrical importer W.H. Masters and Company.
The people of Melbourne had enjoyed the novelty of cable trams for three years; visitors to the Exhibition, however, had the unique opportunity to ride on an electric tram less than twelve months after the technology had been perfected in America.
During the Exhibition, the primitive open tram carried nearly seventeen thousand passengers along a 300-yard (274 metre) track at threepence per ride. The Exhibition Commissioners awarded the Thomson-Houston Company of Boston [1], which had supplied the tram equipment, a First Order of Merit and a Gold Medal.
Meanwhile a syndicate of landowners and investors in the adjoining rural shires of Nunawading and Bulleen was planning a tramway between the townships of Box Hill and Doncaster. The line would provide Doncaster with a transport link to the railway at Box Hill and the syndicate hoped that it would promote sales of land being subdivided as well as attract tourists to the area.
At the time, Box Hill and Doncaster were among the largest fruit-growing areas in Victoria, The Nunawading Shire, of which Box Hill was then a part, was described as ‘undulating, picturesque and very healthy’. The agricultural township of Box Hill, with a population of 500, was situated on the railway line to Lilydale. It had a bank, two hotels and brickworks. A contemporary report noted that ‘property in this district is increasing in value and buildings are being erected in all directions’.
Box Hill had become the market town for the surrounding areas; it was booming and well serviced. The railway line through Box Hill was opened in 1882 and by 1888 the town had regular letter deliveries and a telegraph service. (It was not until 1914, however, that the municipal electric supply undertaking commenced operations.)
In October 1888 the consortium of landowners and investors formed the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company Limited. This company had an authorised capital of fifteen thousand pounds. William Meader became its chairman.
The Company purchased the electric tram, generating dynamo and steam engine from the Centennial Exhibition and let a contract for construction of 2.25 miles (3.6 kilometres) of earthworks and track. Second-hand rails from Tasmania were used for the standard gauge line.
La Trobe collection, State Library of Victoria.
From October 1889 until January 1896, an electric tram ran between the Box Hill Post Office, on the corner of Whitehorse Road and Station Street, and a terminus near the intersection of Elgar and Doncaster Roads, Doncaster. It was the first electric tram in Australia, and the southern hemisphere, to operate as a regular service. The history of this pioneer electric tramway is a story of technical innovation, initiative and perseverance by the early settlers at a time when Box Hill was a small but growing township.
The origin of the Box Hill-Doncaster electric tramway dates from the Centennial International Exhibition, held at the Exhibition Buildings, Melbourne, in 1888-89. Among the unusual attractions at this elaborate event was a working electric tramway exhibited by the electrical importer W.H. Masters and Company.
The people of Melbourne had enjoyed the novelty of cable trams for three years; visitors to the Exhibition, however, had the unique opportunity to ride on an electric tram less than twelve months after the technology had been perfected in America.
During the Exhibition, the primitive open tram carried nearly seventeen thousand passengers along a 300-yard (274 metre) track at threepence per ride. The Exhibition Commissioners awarded the Thomson-Houston Company of Boston [1], which had supplied the tram equipment, a First Order of Merit and a Gold Medal.
Meanwhile a syndicate of landowners and investors in the adjoining rural shires of Nunawading and Bulleen was planning a tramway between the townships of Box Hill and Doncaster. The line would provide Doncaster with a transport link to the railway at Box Hill and the syndicate hoped that it would promote sales of land being subdivided as well as attract tourists to the area.
At the time, Box Hill and Doncaster were among the largest fruit-growing areas in Victoria, The Nunawading Shire, of which Box Hill was then a part, was described as ‘undulating, picturesque and very healthy’. The agricultural township of Box Hill, with a population of 500, was situated on the railway line to Lilydale. It had a bank, two hotels and brickworks. A contemporary report noted that ‘property in this district is increasing in value and buildings are being erected in all directions’.
Box Hill had become the market town for the surrounding areas; it was booming and well serviced. The railway line through Box Hill was opened in 1882 and by 1888 the town had regular letter deliveries and a telegraph service. (It was not until 1914, however, that the municipal electric supply undertaking commenced operations.)
In October 1888 the consortium of landowners and investors formed the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company Limited. This company had an authorised capital of fifteen thousand pounds. William Meader became its chairman.
 |
| Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company tramcar No 2 shown on advertising poster for Box Hill-Doncaster tramway c1892-1896 (La Trobe collection, State Library of Victoria) |
Poster advertising Doncaster Tower and Electric Tram 1890s (DTHS-dp0175)
There was some opposition from locals who objected to construction of the tramway on the grounds that it would supplant the need for a railway to Doncaster and bring ‘undesirable tourists’.
The hilly route through private property followed what is now Station Street and Tram Road; the line between Koonung Creek and Doncaster was particularly steep and winding. The Union Electric Company of Australia Limited was engaged to erect overhead wiring, install the power generating equipment and operate the line for a period of six months.
The combined engine house and tram shed was erected on the south bank of Bushy Creek (just north of Wimmera Street). The creek was dammed to provide water for the steam-generating plant.
After considerable obstacles were overcome, the line was finally opened on 14 October 1889 by a local Parliamentarian and Government Whip, Ewen Cameron, MLA. The occasion was appropriately celebrated with a lavish banquet and succession of toasts and speeches at the Tower Hotel, Doncaster.
The tramway was an initial success and a second tram was ordered from the Thomson-Houston Company of Boston. By the time the Union Electric Company handed over the working of the line to the Tramway Company a profit of fifty-eight pounds had been realised.
The tram made ten round trips on weekdays and additional trips on weekends averaging a speed of about nine miles (14 kilometres) per hour. The single fare between Box Hill and Doncaster was sixpence. Arrangements were made with the Victorian Railways for issue of a combined first class tram and train ticket from Melbourne via Box Hill and return, costing one shilling and sixpence.
Soon after the Union Electric Company’s contract to operate the line ceased, troubles began to develop. The steep gradients and sharp curves of the line severely taxed the underpowered primitive electric car, which constantly broke down under the strain. This annoyed many locals but especially the South Doncaster Estate Company Limited, which had allowed the line to be constructed through its land just north of Whittens Lane.
In November 1890 the Estate Company requested a guarantee from the Tramway Company that the line would operate on a regular basis. When this was refused, the Estate Company removed 50 yards (46 metres) of track from its land.
This was a severe blow to the Tramway Company, which was by then experiencing financial difficulties. It had already been involved in litigation over construction of the line and three employees of the Company were pressing for payment of wages. The directors tried to extricate the Company from the predicament by offering the line and equipment for sale. This was not successful so on 25 December 1890 they began a truncated service from Box Hill to Whittens Lane with the new enclosed tram, which had recently arrived from America.
A compromise was subsequently reached between the feuding parties and the Tramway Company reinstated the trackwork. By January 1891 the entire line was again operational – but not for long. In February, the Estate Company again removed the rails over a question of legal fees relating to the initial dispute. By now, the Tramway Company was in severe financial straits, through lack of regular revenue and other problems.
In April the English, Scottish and Australian Chartered Bank [2] successfully sued the Tramway Company for recovery of some five hundred pounds. Three employees also obtained judgements against the Company for non-payment of wages. As the Company was unable to pay, the Sheriff sold the trams and equipment to George Thomson. During the following month, the Company decided to go into voluntary liquidation, as economic recovery was impossible.
Mr Thomson, through his agent William Ellingworth [3], ran the line satisfactorily until June 1891 when the South Doncaster Estate Company threatened to blow up the line with dynamite if ‘certain conditions’ were not met. The tram service was stopped and the employees dismissed. Within days, fences were erected across the Estate Company’s boundaries and a deep trench cut across the right of way to stop passage of traffic. A notice in the local press warned that no public road existed through the Estate Company’s land.
Incensed by the blockade, locals removed the fence and filled in the trench. Not to be outdone, the Estate Company retaliated by chopping down poles carrying the overhead wires. Locals suspended an effigy of the Estate Company’s secretary, Alfred Tankard, from the tram wire at the Doncaster terminus. This was later burnt on a bonfire.
Frustrated by the inability to properly run the line, Thomson sold his interest to Richard Serpell of Doncaster. The deadlock over the right of way was finally broken in September 1891 when the landowners, through whose land was laid, offered to transfer the right of way to the newly created Shire of Doncaster free of charge providing it was declared a public road. This was achieved over a long period and Tram Road was finally gazetted a public highway in November 1901.
The year 1892 heralded a new era for the tramway. In February the Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company Limited, with an authorised capital of twelve thousand pounds, was formed to take over the line, The main promoters of this new company were Richard Serpell and Matthew Glassford, a Melbourne merchant.
The Doncaster section was straightened to ease the steepest gradient and trams began running under the auspices of the new Company in March 1892. During the following year, Henry Hilton was appointed manager of the tramway and from that time the line was run on a more regular and profitable basis.
The tourist potential of the tramway was widely advertised. On Easter Monday 1893, a record number of more than 1,300 passengers were carried. However, as the tramway settled on a more successful course, economic conditions which had boomed for the previous few years deteriorated rapidly.
During Easter 1893 the Tramway Company’s bank suspended business and did not reopen its doors until August. Thus credit or any cash it may have had deposited was unavailable. The Tramway Company struggled on until April 1894 when it leased the line and plant to Henry Hilton for one shilling per week until such time as economic circumstances improved. Hilton was assisted by his cousin William Hilton. They privately referred to the enterprise as their ‘bob a week tram service’.
Henry Hilton pursued every avenue of economy and by prudent operation managed a modest profit. But it was hardly a satisfactory living. After a long and difficult struggle he finally closed the tramway on 6 January 1896.
Some of the overhead copper wire was stolen before the tramway could be dismantled. The rails were sold to a saw miller in the Otway Forest. After languishing in the tram shed for some years the two trams were sold to H.V. McKay. The tram motors were adapted for use at his Sunshine Harvester Works and the bodies became shelters at the factory’s recreation ground, now known as Chaplin Reserve.
For many years the old tram shed and engine house at Bushy Creek were frequented by swagmen. By the Second World War, only the dam and foundations for the engine house equipment remained.
In 1940 the Box Hill Council erected a cairn to mark the terminus of the tramway. Until demolished by an errant motor vehicle in 1988, this small memorial stood outside the Box Hill Post Office. The Council further commemorated the tramway in 1971, when the right of way behind the Post Office was named Hilton’s Lane, after Henry Hilton, the former engineer and lessee.
In October 1989, on the tramway’s 100th anniversary, the plaque from the cairn was reinstated in Station Street and new plaques commemorating the centenary unveiled. A full size replica of the first tram is on permanent display at the Doncaster-Templestowe Historical Society’s museum at Schramm’s Cottage, Doncaster.
Probably the best-known monument to Australia’s pioneer electric tramway is Tram Road, Doncaster. The history of roads is in some measure the history of civilisation. Tram Road therefore serves as a permanent reminder of the aspirations, trials, failures and triumphs of the pioneers of the district.
Bibliography:
Green, R (1989) The First Electric Road, J. Mason Press
Footnotes
[1] Merged with the Edison General Electric Company in 1892 to form the General Electric Company, now known as GE.
[2] Merged with the Australia and New Zealand Bank (ANZ) in 1970.
[3] Remembered by the street name of Ellingworth Parade, Box Hill.
Source: Robert Green. First published 1989. This article was written by Robert Green for the centenary of the Box Hill to Doncaster electric tramway in October 1989, and published in a commemorative pamphlet by the Box Hill City Council. Robert Green is a noted historian and author of The First Electric Road, the definitive history of the Box Hill to Doncaster tramway. Archive copy from Melbourne Tram Museum Website: http://www.hawthorntramdepot.org.au/papers/boxhill.htm
The main road through the suburb, Doncaster Road, was formally named Main Street.
[1] Merged with the Edison General Electric Company in 1892 to form the General Electric Company, now known as GE.
[2] Merged with the Australia and New Zealand Bank (ANZ) in 1970.
[3] Remembered by the street name of Ellingworth Parade, Box Hill.
Source: Robert Green. First published 1989. This article was written by Robert Green for the centenary of the Box Hill to Doncaster electric tramway in October 1989, and published in a commemorative pamphlet by the Box Hill City Council. Robert Green is a noted historian and author of The First Electric Road, the definitive history of the Box Hill to Doncaster tramway. Archive copy from Melbourne Tram Museum Website: http://www.hawthorntramdepot.org.au/papers/boxhill.htm
Doncaster Electric Tram
Doncaster was the location of the first electric tram to run in Melbourne in1889. The tram started in Doncaster and ended in Box Hill (about 3.5 km away). Consequently this was named "Tram Road". However, the service did not earn any profit, so it ended in 1896 due to feuds with land holders and financial problems.The main road through the suburb, Doncaster Road, was formally named Main Street.
1920s - Box Hill-Doncaster Bus 9 replaced the Electric Tram (bpadula)
Tram Commemorative Plaque
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| Commemorative plaque DONCASTER ELECTRIC TRAM, Station St, Box Hill, marking the site of the southern terminus. The tram closed down in 1896. Bob Padula Facebook |
Drama on the Tram
One dark night the Tram left Doncaster at 10.00 p.m. carrying forty-nine Clergymen. It moved off from the terminus rolling down the hill on the way to Box Hill. Then the trolley came off the wire. Without any power, the motor could not be reversed to slow the tram. After Whitten's Lane a steeper hill led to the creek where the line crossed the bridge in a sharp curve. This had always been considered a danger spot. If the Tram jumped the rails or the wheels pushed out the rails the tram would plunge into the creek. There were no lights and the night was dark as they raced down this last slope to the bridge. The clergymen, unaware of the danger, sang with their 49 strong voices, "Hold the port for we are coming". The driver desperately struggling with the hand-brake mutters "Weíre coming alright!. The Tram swung round the curve and ran for three hundred yards uphill before it stooped.Source: 1986 09 DTHS Newsletter . (No date. No corroborating reference found as yet)
First Electric Tram
The era of trams in Melbourne commenced in 1885 when the first cable tram ran along Flindets Street. In 1888, an electric tram was demonstrated at the International Exhibition. A group of Doncaster men saw the possibilities of running the tram from the new railway at Box Hill to the Doncaster Tower. "The Box Hill - Doncaster Electric Tramway Company" was formed by Richard Serpell, W. Meader, owner of the Tower Hotel, and W. Sell, Estate Agent.From the start the scheme met trouble. Although most Doncaster people were in favour of the tram there was some strong opposition. Some argued that the application for a railway would be prejudiced. Others feared that trippers would cause vandalism in the orchards. There were delaying tactics and outright destruction to rails and poles.
The tracks were laid straight through orchards and paddocks from Station Street to Serpells Corner.
The first tram ran in October 1889. It carried 40 passengers on 6 reversible bench seats, and weighed 6 tons loaded. The 12 horsepower motor carried the tram at a speed of 15 miles per hour downhill, but slowed to 5 miles per hour uphill.
The tram was a success and well patronised, but maintenance costs were higher than expected. The first year showed a profit of £58. Then costly mechanical breakdowns caused a crisis. A new company, "The Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company" was formed, only to meet another crisis. A land company who had been given shares for the use of their land refused to accept shares in the new company in lieu of a dividend. A fence was built across the track and rails removed. The dispute reached
a climax when an effigy of the land company seeretary was burnt one Saturday night before the largest crowd to have assembled in Doncaster. The dispute was settled and the tram took a short detour along Frederick Street.
The land boom collapsed and in the depression of 1893, the tram became uneconomic. Mr. H. J. Hilton, who had been the tram's engineer, hired the whole equipment for 1/- a day. Hilton ran the tram, often working on his own. He would start up the generating engine, at the tram sheds where the track crossed the creek, then leaving the engine to look after itself, set off with the tram to meet the train from Melbourne.
Hilton worked hard and long. He printed posters, and maintained the power plant and tram, but the difficult times were too much for him. In 1896 the line closed.
The rails were removed in 1901, and the owners of the land through which the tram had run donated this land for Tram Road.
The neglected tram sheds became a home for tramps. In one shed a dusty map stuck on a nail, showed the local houses that were always good for a free meal.
Source: Irvine Green writing in 1969 04 DTHS Newsletter
Subjects: Box Hill - Doncaster Tram|Tram|Schramms Cottage|Wurundjeri Festival|Symons, Claud|O'Beirne, Bunty|Green, Paddy|Dignum, Peter|Curtis, Lisa
The combined engine house and tram shed was erected on the south bank of Bushy Creek (just north of Wimmera Street). The creek was dammed to provide water for the steam-generating plant. (From: Hawthorn Tram Depot website)
Subjects: Electric trams|Tram Road|Smith, Lawrence Hislop|Grover, Gerald Stanley|Ovenden, Dick|Scanned images
1892. The engine house and tram depot shed in Station Street near Bushy Creek, Box Hill (near present day Wimmera Street). The enclosed tramcar can be seen in the distance, and there are some spare rails in the foreground. DP0749
Arrival of the Box Hill - Doncaster tram at the Doncaster terminus on opening day. The open car is fully loaded with company officials and dignitaries. Arthur Arnott is at the controls. Thomas Draper and William Masters are on the running boards to his left and right, Benjamin J. Fink, with hands clasped, is standing halfway along the side of the car, and William Meader, the company Chairman, is third from the right. In the background is Edward Gallus' farm. DP0751
Melbourne's first electric tram in 1889 and the more advanced second model 1896. Operated in the years 1889-1896 between Box Hill and Doncaster along Tram Road. These were the first electric trams to be introduced in the Southern Hemisphere. DP0762
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One hundred years ago
One hundred years ago the economy of Doncaster was still being pushed along by the "land boom". Orchards were being sub-divided and sold for high prices. One block of land was sold for 251 pounds per acre. In Melbourne, the Centenary celebrations were over and the great Exhibition had closed. Among the exhibits was a tram car running along a track at the north of the Exhibition. It worked on the principal of electric propulsion. With the optimism of the time a company was formed to run the tram from Whitehorse Road at Box Hill to Doncaster Road. Among the directors were two Doncaster men, William Sell and Richard Serpell. On the 14th October 1889, the Tram line was opened.Source: 1989 03 DTHS Newsletter
The first electric tram in Australia
The Box Hill to Doncaster Electric Tram Line opened on the 14th of October 1889. It was the ?rst electric tram in Australia, but only just, for electric trams started running at Bendigo the next year. These were powered with batteries. A small power house generated electricity to charge the batteries which were supposed to give ample power to last a round trip. They were supposed to, but after a few months of wear batteries often died while the trams were on the track and dead trams had to be pushed back to the terminus by the passengers, or towed by horse. Two years later the electric trams were replaced by horse trams and in 1902 an overhead electric system was installed.
Melbourneís famous cable tram network was opened in 1885. The ?rst route was along Flinders Street to Richmond. It was soon followed by other lines till at the end of the century Melbourne had the largest and most efficient cable tram system in the world. All the inner suburbs were connected with a network of forty-six miles covering seventeen routes. The trams were economical. reliable, safe and quiet. If you missed one tram another would be along in a few minutes. In the 1930ís, when lines were being converted to electricity, it was found that in some areas the new electric service was slower than the old cable trams.
Melbourne also had a few isolated horse tram routes, such as Hawthorn to Kew, Elsternwick, Coburg and Beaumaris. The last horse tram to run was a line to the zoo.
Electric tram lines extended the cable system. In 1906, a line was built from Flemington bridge to Essendon and from St. Kilda station to Brighton beach. A few years later electric trams ran in High Street Malvern, Commercial Road and Batman Avenue.
Other states built electric tram lines and all the capital cities had an electric service by 1909. Sydney installed steam trams in 1879. Their first line had rails layed on top of the road. After complaints from drivers of carts and buggies these were soon pulled up. One cable track was laid in 1886, and the ?rst electric tram in Sydney was opened in 1893. By 1900, they had a full electric system.
Doncaster was the first town in Australia to have a fast electric tram service. In fact it was faster to travel from Melbourne to Doncaster than than it is now during peak times. However the depression of the 1890ís brought an end to this ambitious project. The line closed in 1896, the rails were removed and the tram route became Tram Road.
Source: 1989 06 DTHS Newsletter
Now, one hundred years later, all that remains of this tram is its route, Tram Road. Tram Road did not exist when the line was made. The track was laid across orchards, paddocks and farms. At its completion, it was reported that a ?ne thorough-fare had been constructed right through to Doncaster. At Box Hill, the terminus was at the corner of Whitehorse Road and Station Street where the Post Of?ce now stands. At Doncaster, the route ended at Doncaster Road.
Leaving Box Hill the tram trundled through open ?elds and orchards. In the distance the Doncaster Tower dominated the skyline with Mount Macedon in the background. At the bottom of the hill, alongside a small creek, the Tram Power House Stood on the left. Now, the site is park ground near Wimmera Street. There was a large shed with a tall chimney and at the rear, a dam, dug to supply water for the boiler. A tram barn was added later.
From there the road ran up a short hill to where Woodhouse Road now comes in, then the track went down to a curve at the bridge over Koonung Creek. Because of the dif?culty of obtaining land in one estate, the tram then took a curve into Frederick Street, which was part of Clays land, subdivided a few years before. It came back to Tram Road again and stopped at the Corner of Doncaster Road where Edward Gallus built a refreshment room with a verandah as a tram shelter.
The next year Richard Serpell built the two story corner store acoss the intersection. The local men who promoted the tram company were, Richard Serpell, William Sell, and William Meader.
Richard Serpell had purchased land and planted an orchard at the corner of Williamsons Road a few years previously. He made more money buying and selling land during the land boom than growing fruit.
William Sell an orchardist of Beverley Street also had an Estate Agents of?ce in Doncaster Road near the corner.
William Meader, an estate Agent of Box Hill, later ran the Tower Hotel in Hawthorn and his son became manager at the E. S.and A. Bank both, at Box Hill and Doncaster.
Charles Taylor, a Barrister of Melbourne, owned land in Box Hill.
Other local men who came into the company later were William Ellingworth and Alfred Serpell both of Box Hill.
The history of this important early Tram will be remembered on the 14th of October when the centenary is being celebrated.
Source: 1989 09 DTHS Newsletter
One hundred years before, on 14th October 1889, the tram ran for the ?rst time.
Reliving the past, the group travelled along Tram Road unveiling pictorial plaques at the site of, the Tram Power House on a reserve near Wimmera Street, the Box Hill Terminus, alongside the Post Of?ce and at the Doncaster Terminus in the LW Thomson Reserve. Then back to Schrammís for afternoon tea. That evening the dinner held to celebrate the opening of the Tram in 1889, at the Tower Hotel, was recreated in the Doncaster Templestowe Council Chamber. In the spacious room, with beautiful ?oral decorations, guests from both Box Hill and Templestowe were served a dinner with a menu such as would have been served one hundred years ago. A surprise visit, during the evening, was a conductress from from 1889 in the guise of entertainer Wilma Farrer.
The next week, a Tram Exhibition was opened at the Box Hill Town Hall. Photographs, models, documents and many and varied objects and pieces of equipment were displayed in an excellently mounted exhibition.
The replica of the Tram from Schrammís Cottage was taken to the Town Hall by our Council and displayed in the basement alongside the exhibition hall. Many members of our society helped to man the exhibition during the ten days it was open.
Box Hill must be congratulated on being given custody of No. 1 Cable Tram. This Tram which had been displayed in Russell Street, outside the Science Museum, had to be removed to make way for building additions to the State Library. The Tram inside its large glass case will remain on the lawn of the Town Hall for eighteen months till the new science Museum is set up at the Spotswood Sewerage Pumping House.
Source: 1989 12 DTHS Newsletter
Melbourneís famous cable tram network was opened in 1885. The ?rst route was along Flinders Street to Richmond. It was soon followed by other lines till at the end of the century Melbourne had the largest and most efficient cable tram system in the world. All the inner suburbs were connected with a network of forty-six miles covering seventeen routes. The trams were economical. reliable, safe and quiet. If you missed one tram another would be along in a few minutes. In the 1930ís, when lines were being converted to electricity, it was found that in some areas the new electric service was slower than the old cable trams.
Melbourne also had a few isolated horse tram routes, such as Hawthorn to Kew, Elsternwick, Coburg and Beaumaris. The last horse tram to run was a line to the zoo.
Electric tram lines extended the cable system. In 1906, a line was built from Flemington bridge to Essendon and from St. Kilda station to Brighton beach. A few years later electric trams ran in High Street Malvern, Commercial Road and Batman Avenue.
Other states built electric tram lines and all the capital cities had an electric service by 1909. Sydney installed steam trams in 1879. Their first line had rails layed on top of the road. After complaints from drivers of carts and buggies these were soon pulled up. One cable track was laid in 1886, and the ?rst electric tram in Sydney was opened in 1893. By 1900, they had a full electric system.
Doncaster was the first town in Australia to have a fast electric tram service. In fact it was faster to travel from Melbourne to Doncaster than than it is now during peak times. However the depression of the 1890ís brought an end to this ambitious project. The line closed in 1896, the rails were removed and the tram route became Tram Road.
Source: 1989 06 DTHS Newsletter
Australia's first electric tram
October 14th 1889 Australia's first Electric Tram ran from Box Hill to Doncaster.Now, one hundred years later, all that remains of this tram is its route, Tram Road. Tram Road did not exist when the line was made. The track was laid across orchards, paddocks and farms. At its completion, it was reported that a ?ne thorough-fare had been constructed right through to Doncaster. At Box Hill, the terminus was at the corner of Whitehorse Road and Station Street where the Post Of?ce now stands. At Doncaster, the route ended at Doncaster Road.
Leaving Box Hill the tram trundled through open ?elds and orchards. In the distance the Doncaster Tower dominated the skyline with Mount Macedon in the background. At the bottom of the hill, alongside a small creek, the Tram Power House Stood on the left. Now, the site is park ground near Wimmera Street. There was a large shed with a tall chimney and at the rear, a dam, dug to supply water for the boiler. A tram barn was added later.
From there the road ran up a short hill to where Woodhouse Road now comes in, then the track went down to a curve at the bridge over Koonung Creek. Because of the dif?culty of obtaining land in one estate, the tram then took a curve into Frederick Street, which was part of Clays land, subdivided a few years before. It came back to Tram Road again and stopped at the Corner of Doncaster Road where Edward Gallus built a refreshment room with a verandah as a tram shelter.
The next year Richard Serpell built the two story corner store acoss the intersection. The local men who promoted the tram company were, Richard Serpell, William Sell, and William Meader.
Richard Serpell had purchased land and planted an orchard at the corner of Williamsons Road a few years previously. He made more money buying and selling land during the land boom than growing fruit.
William Sell an orchardist of Beverley Street also had an Estate Agents of?ce in Doncaster Road near the corner.
William Meader, an estate Agent of Box Hill, later ran the Tower Hotel in Hawthorn and his son became manager at the E. S.and A. Bank both, at Box Hill and Doncaster.
Charles Taylor, a Barrister of Melbourne, owned land in Box Hill.
Other local men who came into the company later were William Ellingworth and Alfred Serpell both of Box Hill.
The history of this important early Tram will be remembered on the 14th of October when the centenary is being celebrated.
Source: 1989 09 DTHS Newsletter
The Tram Centenary
Ln the afternoon, one hundred people from Box Hill and Doncaster came to Schramms Cottage to see Doncaster's replica of Australiaís First Electric tram.One hundred years before, on 14th October 1889, the tram ran for the ?rst time.
Reliving the past, the group travelled along Tram Road unveiling pictorial plaques at the site of, the Tram Power House on a reserve near Wimmera Street, the Box Hill Terminus, alongside the Post Of?ce and at the Doncaster Terminus in the LW Thomson Reserve. Then back to Schrammís for afternoon tea. That evening the dinner held to celebrate the opening of the Tram in 1889, at the Tower Hotel, was recreated in the Doncaster Templestowe Council Chamber. In the spacious room, with beautiful ?oral decorations, guests from both Box Hill and Templestowe were served a dinner with a menu such as would have been served one hundred years ago. A surprise visit, during the evening, was a conductress from from 1889 in the guise of entertainer Wilma Farrer.
The next week, a Tram Exhibition was opened at the Box Hill Town Hall. Photographs, models, documents and many and varied objects and pieces of equipment were displayed in an excellently mounted exhibition.
The replica of the Tram from Schrammís Cottage was taken to the Town Hall by our Council and displayed in the basement alongside the exhibition hall. Many members of our society helped to man the exhibition during the ten days it was open.
Box Hill must be congratulated on being given custody of No. 1 Cable Tram. This Tram which had been displayed in Russell Street, outside the Science Museum, had to be removed to make way for building additions to the State Library. The Tram inside its large glass case will remain on the lawn of the Town Hall for eighteen months till the new science Museum is set up at the Spotswood Sewerage Pumping House.
Source: 1989 12 DTHS Newsletter
On the wall is a photograph of the first electric tram in Australia which ran from Box Hill to Doncaster along Station Street from various properties to the corner where Doncaster Shoppingtown now stands. Electric power to the 15 hp motor was generated in an engine house midway between Box Hill and Doncaster. The tram commenced operating in 1889 and, although the service operated profitably in the first years, it ceased operation on 6 January 1896.
Source: Push button audio recording built into Schramm's cottage as at June 2021
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Other Resources:
- Tram images : of a journey through Australia and New Zealand / Hugh Ballment. Transit Australia Publishing c2009 SLV
- Australia's First Electric Tram - J.K. Moir (1940)
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