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Source: State Library of Victoria http://handle.slv.vic.gov.au/10381/133286 DTHS Copy
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| Photo taken at Box Hill terminus at opening ceremony. 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. Australia's first electric tram - JK Moir 1940 |
Australia's
Electric
First
Tram
by J. K. MOIR
MELBOURNE 19 4 0
Foreword
By mere chance I became acquainted with Mr. II. .1. Hilton, whose story is recounted in those pages.
Tlie contents of this little booklet Humid not only intere>t those of an historical turn of mind, hut all Victorians. as it is tin* storv of the first electric tramway in Australia; indeed it is claimed to he the first in the Southern Hemisphere.
Certainlv it was the first in Australia. In V.S.W . the first electric Iramwav along Military Road. iVortli Sydney, was opened 20th September, 1893. Adelaide did not convert her trains to the electric system until 9th March, 1909. Perth electric tramways, run hy an English Company, wore opened 21th September. 1899. Tasmania was early in the field. In 1893. Hobart was served hy an electric system owned bv a private Company. The scheme is now operated bv the Hobart Municipal Council. Brisbane changed over from horse-drawn to electric trams in 1896-7.
I'he opening of the tramwav between Box Hill and Doncaster scents to owe its origin to the Land Boom existing at the time. Those who were not alive in those stirring davs can have little conception of the conditions ruling. Fortunes were made — on paper. The frenzv culminated in tin* Bank Smash. Chaotic financial conditions prevailed and it is no source of wonder that the tramwav clo-ed.
Too much credit cannot he given to Mr. Hilton for his fight to keep it running. Ilis faith was almost akin to his ability. So that there can be no question on the latter score a testimonial is included, and hv its contents it can he gauged that Mr. Hilton is a man not easily discouraged.
Mr. Hilton introduced and worked electric tramway traction in the Chiltern Valley gold mines, and this is claimed as being the first occasion in Victoria that such traction was used underground.
This booklet is a tribute to him and at the same time is a true record of the vicissitudes of the Box Hill — Doncaster electric iramwav companies, and as such T offer it.
J. K. MOIR.
2
.1 lie Ueuesis
An extract from the Oilicial Record of the Centennial International Exhibition, opened in Melbourne on 1st August. 188R. reads—
"An electrie railway exliibite<l liv Messrs. W. IT. Masters & Co. was opened to the public on 19lh November. J«58«C It ran for fifty-eight (lavs and bv agreement the Executive Commissioners received o()'7 of the gross re* ceipts or £106. (The exact amount was £10r»/jr» ]] ). It was constructed M>ulh of. and parallel with, the Switchback Railway. '1 'In* site was at the northern end of the Gardens and the line ran parallel to Carlton Street, hut although most interesting as an exhibit, did not appear to meet with the patronage from the public that was anticipated."
Another extract from the same record reads —
"Another form of electric action is propulsion which within the last few years has been carried bevond the experimental stage. A great stride forward in this branch of electric enterprise was the system of accumulators which la.-t nine hours at a stretch. Coeomotives based on the latter principle are doing work dnilv in a satisfactory manner on the section of tin* London Metropolitan Tram-wavs between Stratford Church and Manor Park, the length of which is live miles out and five miles in. which occupies t wen tv minutes each wav. with five minutes allowed for stopping and turning.”
The Judges at the Exhibition — or Juries as they were termed—awarded the exhibit a First Order of Merit and their report reads —
■‘Electric tramway, motors and dynamos. This is a most complete exhibit, and deserves great praise' for its eompletene>s of system lighting (arc and incandescent) motors and traction.”
WHERE THE EXHIBITS WENT.
To place all other electrical exhibits on the close of the Exhibition was a simple matter: the ear was another
3
matter. The problem was solved when Mr. T. T. Draper came into contact with a land syndicate in the eastern suburbs, and The Box Hill Doncaster Electric Tramwav came into existence, as set out hereunder.
The plant taken over from the exhibition consisted of — An open six “bench” car; wooden framing running hoards both sides, back? of seats reversible; and equipped with a doubtful 22 H.P. motor, double reduction, with rawhide pinions: a rheostat operated bv a leather strap encircling a wooden barrel, a reversing switch of two-leg, and three-contact type, two main switches over the driving ends, and a fuse placed on the main framing on side of car. This completed the equipment. The spiral springs of tin* trollev were placed vertically, and the trolley pole of four feet six inches in length, as used at the Exhibition, was built tip of four iron rods extended apart in the centre. This was discarded for use at Box Hill, ami a trolley pole; of wood with ■] inch iron core substituted to reach the regulation height of 21 feet. The Dynamo was a Thomson-IIoiistoii type with “spherical or hall*' armature. listed as a “100 Incandescence Machine” as distinguished from the Are Light Machine I which had a three part commutator I. At the Exhibition the dvnaitio ran at 1000 R.P.AT.— at Box Hill it was speeded up to 1.200 H.P.AT., and the voltage increased from 100 to aOO. in which no allowance was made for elleet on the control o( the ear. The Engine was one of two made bv the “Ball Engine Ho.”, Erie. Pennsylvania. U.S.A., a 10 x 12 with overhanging (Iv-wheels. one of T 6” which housed the governor; the oilier .V 6” carried the belt to the dvnaitio; the speed of the engine was 27.”) R.P.M. One feature of these engines was the small clearance given the piston at end of the stroke, and care had to he exerrised in adjusting the crank and crosshead connections. (The "mate of the Box Hill engine went to the Nicholson Street power house of the cable trains, for lighting purposes. The matter of piston clearance may have been overlooked as the engine “disintegrated." Air. Ililton had provided against that contingency, ensuring a greater clearance bv inserting a thicker joint in the back cylinder covert.
4
Of instruments in tin; engine room there is little to rerun!. There were no volt and ampere meters. Tive 100 V. lamps in series would show the dynamo was functioning. Above the switchboard was fixed a magnetic lightning arrester. The said switchboard of matchboard carried a solitary knife switch, and a steam pressure gauge placed on the wall completed the engine room.
1'he Boiler was 12' x 3’ 6” in barrel with dome and 30 tubes: under fired, set in brickwork, no side flues, and 30' of 1-1” iron smoke stack. Feed wafer was taken from a dtun speeiallv constructed for that purpose. A Vatixhall pump and Penberthv Injector supplied the water to boiler. I The dam is still in existence).
T11E BOX 1IILE & DONCASTER TRAMWAY Co. Ltd.
This Company was incorporated under the Companies Statute of 1861 on the 21th October, 1888. The Capital was £13.000 in 15,000 shares of £1 each. The signatories to the Memorandum of Association and number of shares
held were —
Charles Frederick Tavlor, 23 Selborne Chandlers.
Chancery Lane, Barrister at Law. .. .. 1000
W illiam Sell. Doncaster, Agent. .. .. 500
Richard Set-pell. Doncaster. Farmer. .. 1000
William Meador, Box Mill, Agent. .. .. .. 500
Percy Joseph Russell, Queen Street, Melbourne,
Solicitor. ..................................... 500
On 1st August, 1889, William Mcader. Chairman, presented the first half-yearly report and balance sheet. Up to that date — the date of the balance sheet— 30/6/89, £4599/16/3 had already been spent on the permanent way. The tramline was expected to he in working order early in October. lie declared it to he the first electric tramway in the Southern Hemisphere.
5
The Balance Sheet showed —
Capital Paid up £5942 10 0 Brokerage Ad-
Deposit from vertisinp and
Contractor 140 0 0 Flotation Kx-penses £328 0 7
Secretary . . General Expen- 102 0 0
ses 25 19 1
Cost of Con-
struction to date 4599 16 3
First I n s t a 1-ment on E 1 c c-tvic Plant . . -. 1000 0 0
Balance 26 5 1
£6082 10 0 £6082 10 0
CAPITAL A/C.
Capital called up
3190 shares fa 20/- £3190 0 0 I Paid . . . £5942 10 0
6270 ,. fa 15 - 4792 10 0 Owing . 2115 0 0
150 ,, fa 10/- 75 0 0 1
cc o O' -1 10 0 £8057 10 0
The auditors were Fred McDonough and Squire As-pinall. and the secretary, Koliert F. Cow. I Market Buildings. oH William Street. Mellmurne,
The first return of shareholders lodged 2nd October. JM80. flowed off shareholders,
The Company, through its solicitors. Tavlor and Bussell. sulunitted the plans of the proposed tramwav to (he .Nunawading Shire at its meeting held JJhh Kehniarv, 1880. The Council pointed out that no arrangements had heen made hetween the Coinpanv and the Council, and it was resolved to ask the Company to forward further particulars. These particulars came Indore the Council at its March meeting.
The Company proposed to take a lease of the train for 30 years ami at the termination of that time the Coun-
6
Tram arriving at Doncaster on opening day.
Photo taken at Box Hill terminus at opening ceremony. 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.
7
oil could have the plant at valuation upon giving six months’ notice prior to the expiry of 30 vears. hut. if notice, was not given, the Company was to have a further lease for five years and so on until notice was given. The Company undertook to keep so much of the road as was neces-sarv for the tramway in repair.
The conditions were agreed to and the preparation of the road went on with such speed that the local press reported on 12th April of the same year that the road ‘;was almost completed as far as the White Horse Road. Thus a fine thoroughfare has heen formed right through to Doncaster, which, under ordinary circumstances, would not have heen undertaken for vears.5'
The Opening Ceremony
The “Age" in its issue of 15th October, 1889 reports:
The electric tramway which has heen constructed from Box Hill to Doncaster, a distance of 2.] miles, was formally opened yesterday, and trial trips of a most successful character were made along the route. The enterprise* was undertaken by the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Com* pjiny Ltd., about 18 months ago, and although a great many obstacles have had to he encountered, the works have just been brought to a satisfactory termination.
A large number of gentlemen accepted the invitation of the directors to he present at the opening ceremony'.
Tin; terminus ;it Box Hill is at tlm intersection of White Horse Road and Station Street, right in the centre of the township, and it runs through pleasant undulating country to the Tower Hotel.
The rails are laid on blue-gum sleepers let into the surface of a metalled road which has been formed for the purpose.
Some heavy cuttings and embankments have been necessary, hut, in spite of considerable outlay in this direction, it has been found impossible from the nature of the country to avoid making some verv stoop inclines. The grade up the hill into Doncaster is the steepest on the line, the ground rising as much as one foot in sixteen, and in several other places the grade is nearlv as great.
On account of the difficulty in obtaining land along the route it has not been possible* to lav the track in a straight line so that sharp curves have combined with steep gradients to give the experiment a severe and searching test.
'I he motive power for driving the car is generated in an engine house* which is situated about half wav along the route*. The engine is of the* American Ball tvpc*. of ”»0 horse power actual, e'apablr of running H00 revolutions per niinute*. 'Flu* dynamo driven bv tin* engine runs at tin* rate of IKK) revedutions pe*r minute*, and gives a current of edeetricity of J{() ampe*res at 100 volts. The: motive power is supplied to the* car bv an overhead wire, which is suspended above* the* track about IT feet from the: ground. Posts are placed along both sides of the roael in pairs, and from a wire stretelmel l>e*twee*u them, tin* copper wire which carries the* curmit is suspcneled. Tim power is transinitteel to the car itself by means of a long arm which stretches upwarel from the: vehicle. At the upper enel of the arm a pullev is fixed which runs along the wire anel thu9 establishes an electrical eemtaet. One car only is used, and the apparatus for propulsion is placed under the platform, so that it is quite itifiemspteuous, as the motor
9
occupies but very little space. The current from the engine dynamo induces a north and south magnetic field in the magnets of the motor, and this, creating a corresponding state in the armature, causes the latter to revolve, the revolutions being transmitted by toothed gearing to the axles of the car. Resistance coil? are provided for absorbing the current when the vehicle is going downhill. The ear when loaded weighs about six tons, but the motor has a power of about 15 horse's, and it is fullv equal to propelling such a weight, and the engine in tin* shed is siififi-oieutlv powerful to drive two other ears of equal size.
This electrical svstem hy the over-head wire is the {latent cf the Thompson-Houston Company of the I'nited States, and it has come into use in many places in America. The first tramways on this {dan were laid down in 1885. and at present there are 316 miles in operation and many more under construction. It is thought that this svstem will prove more feasible than tin* method of driving cars from electricity stored in jars, but at present the matter has scarcely emerged from the experimental stage.
The gentlemen who assembled at Box Hill yesterday to try the new means of propulsion had a very pleasant experience, as tin* trip was of a most enjoyable character. The seats are ranged across the ear. occupying its entire length and accommodating 35 to 10 persons, though on several occasions it was made to carry a greater number of people. W hen all was ready for a start, the brake was removed and the vehicle glided down the track with a smooth and easy motion. Starting down a considerable slope the pace was allowed to increase after tin- style of the switch hack railway, until the ear was travelling some 12 or 1 1 miles an hour, ami the impetus attained in this way was used in mounting the opposite slope. The pace was slackened considerably in going up the hills, and on the steepest grades onlv 5 mile.-; an hour was attempted, hut still the average speed was good throughout, and the whole distance of 2] miles was covered in 20 minutes. The cars will run regularly from this date, and the Company proposes to charge 6d. for the single journey.
10
Tlie Banquet
After the Metropolitan portion of the visitor* hod hern conveyed to Doncaster hv the tram, a banquet was served in the 'lower Hotel to commemorate the successful completion of the works. Mr. W illiam Meador, the chairman of the Bon Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company presided, having on his right Mr. E. II. Cameron, MX.A., and Mr. C. J. Ham. M.L.C.: and on his left, Mr. James Balfour, M.L.C.. and Mr. F. Stuart. MX.A. There were also present Mr. C. F. Tavlor. MX.A.. Mr E. J. Dixon. MX.A., Professor Kernol, Captain Rowan, Mr. B. J. Fink. Cr. Hicks, the President of the Boroondara shire. Cr. Haugliton, President of the Nunawading shire. Cr. Hunter, President of tin* Bulleen shire. Mr. A. J. Arnot, the superintending electrician of the Iratnwav, Air. R. F. Gow. the secretary of the Company, and others.
’Pile President read a telegram from the Premier who expressed his regret that an important cabinet meeting would prevent his attendance.
The toast of the Queen, the Acting-Governor, and T.ady Robinson were honoured with enthusiasm. Cr. llaughton. the President of the Nunawading shin’, proposed tin* toast of the Ministrv coupled with the name of Mr. E. H. Cameron. MX.A. Mr. Cameron said lie had been asked to respond because he held the position commonly known as the Government whip, lie thought that perhaps it was just as well that Mr. Gillies was not present to reply in person, for in that ease he might have hern called upon to slate why the Railway Bill had hren dropped. The Railway question was one which had a special interest for the Doncaster district, and the promoters of the tramway had received much opposition, because it was supposed tin* tramway would forw’ard an excuse for postponing the construction of the railway to that suburb. That supposition was, however, erroneous, for lie felt satisfied tile Doncaster railway would he included in the next construction hill, f Cheers).
Cr. Ellingsworth, of the Nunawading shire, gave the toast of the Parliament of Victoria. He knew that many
11
people had been looking anxiously for the railway hill, hut there was another measure that was also much required namely, the Local Government Bill.
Mr. Cameron: It will he introduced next week.
Cr. Ellingsworth said he was verv glad to hear it. for they had been waiting for the hill for 10 years.
Mr. Balfour, M.L.C. in responding, referred to the good accomplished by the Coalition Government. Speak* ing of the desire expressed for the construction of a railway to the suburb, he remarked the electric tramway would prove verv useful until such time as the railway was completed, and in addition to that he was very glad that the enterprise had been carried through, if only it was for the pluck and energy showed in making use of the new invention.
Mr. C. J. Ham, M.L.C. ill acknowledging the toasts referred briefly to the Pnrliamentarv business, and expressed the hope that the new Health Bill would receive some modification in the way of protecting the interests of the country districts.
Mr. E. J. Dixon. M.L.A. also hrieflv responded.
Mr. B. J. Fink proposed the Municipal Corporations of the Colonv. which he described as a credit to Victoria, and the admiration of all our political visitors.
Crs. Hicks, Hunter and Haughtou responded to the toast and expressed the hope that the tramwav would he a success equal to the merit of the enterprise.
Mr. Frank Smart, M.L.A., said that after what they had witnessed of the latest adaptation of the wonders of electricity to the needs of man, it gave him great pleasure to propose Success and Prosperity to the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Co. Ltd.
Mr. William Meader, the chairman of directors, in acknowledging the toast, said it gave him very great pleasure to be present on the occasion after all the difficulties that he and his co-directors had passed through. They had received a good deal of opposition from the residents of the district, and they had been scoffed at by almost evervone for attempting such a mad*brained scheme.
Doncaster had now an improved means of coniniuni-
12
cation, ami lie hoped it would have the railway also, hut if Government refused to make' it he was prepared to float a company and make a start within !M hours.
Mr. C. F. Tavlor. M.L.A., one of the directors, said that he had often read of inventions in the past having hern received with distrust and opposition, hut he could not believe that the same spirit could have been shown at the present day if he hadn't experienced it himself. He was glad to hear that there was a good prospect of tin* Doncaster line being included in the Kailway Kill, hut even if it was passed it would take five years before the line could he completed.
Professor Kernot in responding on hclialt of the Union Llectric Company of Australia Ltd., stated that it would probnblv not he long before electricilv was used upon locomotives in place of steam, lie considered the success of the traniwav was a good evidence of the, soundness of the system, because in tins instance it was applied in hilly country and under unfavourable conditions.
The Toasts of the Officers of the. Compum. The Press and The Ladies were also honoured, and tilt* proceedings then terminated.
LOCAL OPTIMISM.
'I'lie venture promised to he a success. An extract from the “Box Hill and Camberwell Cxpress’ ol 1st November. I8H9 reported "The electric Irani at Kox Mill is proving a paying concern. On the opening dav there were manv who unhesitatingly slated that it would not pay for axle grease. These people are now surprised that the line is so well patronised that a second ear is rendered necessary."
The ‘‘Kox Hill Keporter" in its issue of 8rd January, 1890, stated that the electric train was well patronised and worked even better than the railway did on the occasion of the visit of a large crowd on Boxing Day.
In April, 1890, the second half-yearly Balance Sheet was presented.
It was reported that the one electric car at present running had proved totally inadequate and that steps had been taken to order another with double power which, it
13
was expected, would be delivered in four months. It also reported that the directors had found it necessary to become personally liable for over £800; so therefore, the balance owing on shares, 5/-, would be called up.
The Profit and Loss Account for the first six months working showed that working expenses had been £170 A). 3 ami receipts £528/16/5, showing a credit of £58/7/2.
FIRST RIFTS IN THE LUTE.
However, this happy state of things did not continue. A dispute arose with a shareholder who had ceded a strip of land to the Company in consideration of shares.
The ^Box Hill Reporter" of 21st June'. 1891 stated —
The dispute that has existed with regard to the tram for some time has again resulted in the car being stopped and the rails pulled up. On Friday last, the Manager for the proprietor received notice that the traffic would have to he stopped or forcible means would he used. The employees all received their dismissal ami the Car was locked up in the shed. Saturday eame and two fences were erected at either boundary of the South Doncaster Co's. Estate. During Sunday night some person or persons knocked the fences to pieces and removed the materials, hut the parties who erected the fences, not to be outdone, chopped down the posts that earrv the wire and strewed the debris all over the road.
We understand that a movement is on foot to divert the route so as to escape the land in question. The new line is planned to follow the Koornung Creek along and thence across the main Doncaster Road, near Messrs. Lowe & Smedley's forge. If something is not done shortly, we understand that Mr. Thompson, the owner, will remove the plant to some other suburb whore we hope his investment will meet with more cordiality and inducement.
After the Doncaster Council adjourned on Monday night, a number of the ratepayers held a meeting to discuss the question. Cr. Sell having been voted to the Chair briefly stated what he took to be the cause of the dispute. Cr. 'fully also spoke on the seriousness of the matter to Doncaster and Box Hill, and moved the following resolu-
14
tion— That Messrs. T. Petty. Thiele and Schramm he deputed to try and bring about a reconciliation between the two contending parties. Mr. Cameron had much pleasure in seconding the resolution and said if these gentlemen could obtain the object tlirv would earn the thanks of the residents of Doncaster. The Chairman and Mr. R. Serpell said they did not think there was much likelihood of a settlement being effected a? tliev thought the matter had gone too far. hut there would he no harm in trying. Hie other land owners along the line who had given their land to have the tram were greatlv incensed, and justly too, at the shameful treatment thev had received. The speakers thought it would he better to ignore the Estate Co., and try to work out the new route.
After a desullorv discussion the motion was carried.
FIRST COMPANY KAILS.
In a later issue — 26'6, 11591 — the same journal contained this — It appears that the closing of this Road by the South Doncaster Kami Co. has met with considerable opposition and disapproval at the hands of the residents of Doncaster and Rox Hill if an opinion is to he formed from the action that is being taken to keep the thoroughfare open.
During Sunday and Monday an clligv which had been carefully made, was suspended on the cross wire at the terminus of the tram line in Doncaster. The effigy has been provided with a belltopper to which is securely fastened the following inscription. "A F • - - Sad! Sad! The sad effects of rail lifting. The above will In* burnt in effigy on Saturday evening at 15 p.m. All are cordially invited.*’
Matters drifted on in an unsatisfactory way — shareholders were so tired of the position that an Extraordinary meeting was called for 1th January, 11592 to wind up the Company as it was unable to meet its liabilities. Mr. Robert Ferguson was appointed Liquidator at a remuneration of 20% of the gross proceeds.
On 3rd June, 1898, the Company was struck oil the Register as a defunct Company.
15
New Company Formed
Despite the failure of the Box Hill — Doncaster Co. there were evidently some who thought the proposition worth a further trial as on 25th January, 1892, a new Company “’The Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company lad.” was registered under Companies Act of 1890. “To construct, lay down, make, manage, work and maintain a tramway commencing in Station Street, Box Hill, in the Parish of Nunawading opposite the Box Hill station or thereabouts, then running north along Station Street aforesaid through the properties owned hy Charles Frederick Taylor, the Box Hill Township Estate Company Ltd., Richard Serpell and George Wright to the Koornung Creek thence in a North Westerly direction along a road surveyed out ami the properties of the Bank of South Australia, John Woolcock, Frederick Wilson, Edward Wilson, the South Doncaster Estate Company Lid., William Behrens and Edward Gallus to the Doncaster Road, thence across the Doncaster Road lo Williamson's Road, thenee running along Williamson's Road to the junction of the Heidelberg and Templestowe Roads, and to construct, lay down, make, manage, work and maintain tramways in any part or parts of tilt; Shires of Nunawading and Doncaster in the County of Bourko, and to construct, erect, and maintain all buildings, bridges, culverts and erections of any nature or kind whatsoever and provide all machinery, rolling stock, working gear, working chattels and to do all acts, matters and things necessary, convenient or expedient for any such or all of such objects and to repair and keep in repair any. each and all of such tramways.’'
The Company was empowered to run omnibuses as well, and to carry on the business of electricians, mechanical engineers, and dealers in electricity for motive power and light, to light streets, public, places, buildings, factories, railways and tramways.
Capital: £12,000 in 12,000 shares of £1 each.
1G
The “Power House” was a Corrugated Iron structure one end of ivhich Was used as a car barn until the box ear came to hand, then a separate “barn” was built to contain two cars with inspection pit for one.
Type of ticket used.
17
18
SUBSCRIBERS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION.
Thomas Thcopliilus Draper. 356 Queen St.,
Electrician 900 shares
William Ellingworth. Box Hill. Gentleman 138 ,,
Alfred Serpell, Box Hill, Land Owner . . 58
Richard Serpell. Doncaster, Laud Owner .. 884 „
M. Glassford, 372 Flinders St.. Merchant .. 1800 ,,
5/2/1892.
Witness to Signatures —
Robert F. Gow, 58 William St., Melbourne.
Tile Solicitors were Messrs. Taylor, Russell & Ren-wiek. Salisbury Buildings, Queen St., Melbourne.
The Memo of Association lodged does not indicate that any assets of the former Company were taken over, neither does it contain anything about the payment of any consideration to anyone, but the Summary lodged, stating that there were 5.000 shares paid up. seems to imply that these were given as a consideration for something that i3 not disclosed in the papers filed.
The new Company appointed Mr. IL J. Hilton engineer, and operations commenced in March. The land difficulty was overcome by altering the route as was set out in the prospectus.
The engineer took one motor from the box car and installed it on the open six bench ear, which was again placed in commission. This scheme effected a saving of 259? of fuel.
The tram was run by the Coinpanv with many breaks and experienced many vicissitudes until 1894. Tin* Bank Smash of 1893 and the closing of the English, Scottish and Chartered Bank in Box Hill, the Company's Bank, were severe blows.
COMPANY'S ENGINEER TAKES OVER.
In 1894 the Directors, as a hist resort, offered the proposition to the Engineer for the Coinpanv, Mr. II. J. Hilton. The agreement in connection with this is a curious one written on an ordinary piece of writing paper and is
OCTOBER 16th. 1B93, until further notice.
DONCASTER & BOX HILL ELECTRIC ROAD C0„ Limited.
TI7WE THBLE
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER.
WEEK DAYS (R«turJ',,,s curpud! WEEK DAYS
Mclbmirno .. , ,<lrp 0 !) 0 lit) it 11 1) 112 20j 1 20 o 20 So; •1 IS, •% *>r»
Kox Hill Station .. ,.nrr. ■S !> ss'io 11 33 12 30. 2 0 0 S.v 30 s 20j r» r.s
Box Hill Terminus .. . .Jep. •s :>i>; «) r»o it) sc 11 50j 1 0 •) 3 S 1 10 r. r.
Doncaster .. ..srr. 5 !jo .-> ;il 12 5 1 15, 2 20 ,1 20, S3- o -to! 15 20
DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
Doncaster ..aep. H 20! y 20 10 20 11 20,12 2l 1 20 2 20 3 43 6 1 5 45
Box Hill Terminus .. ftrr. N 351 !> OS 10 3511 3Sll2 3*, 1 33 2 33 4 0 ", 20, 0 0
Flov Hill Station .. Jep. H 42, ',) 4 t!lO 4211 1112 42 1 12 2 42 1 9 5 29 r, 9
Me Ibonrne .. . -arr. 0 IdJlO 17(11 IS 12 irl i IS 2 1,3 :t IS 4 42 a ■> fi 41
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER.
SATURDAYS ONLY. SATURDAYS ONLY
Melbourne .. (iep. 112 20 1 is. 3 S , is 4 S
Box Hill Station nrr. ». 5 112 S3 1 so. 3 !0| 21 1 10
Itox Hill Terminus dep. i 'is 2 0 1 3 tSI *25 S 0
JVmc/ister .. nrr. 2 13| 4 0 I it S IS
DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
Doncaster .. . .dip. 112 20, 1 30 2 17 I 0 | 40! IS. r, 40
Box Hill Terminus .. .. ftrr. - -;i2 1 IS 2 32 i i s' ss! r, 30 0 55
Box Hill Station ...lei.. 12 42, 1 so 2 30 1 19 SO1 S 391 \\
Melbourne .. .. ..nrr. ““1 1 is! 2 32 3 12 1 32, 5 32! <; 12) 12
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER (SUNDAYS) DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE
Melbourne ..112 U» 1 SSI 2 ;.S| 3 SSI • lionea'ti'r .. 1 ss 2 SS 3 .SSI I S3 5 50
Box Hill Stat’n! 1 IS1 2 30 3 1 30 30 B,ix Hill Ter. 2 in 3 10 4 10 S 10 0 11)
Box Hill Term. 1 20 2 33 3 ;j;,| I :isl 33 Box Hill St'u. 2 17 3 17 I 1?' S 17 C, 19
Doncaster . .1 1 33 2 Stll 3 sol i sol SO Meibom lie ,. 2 SO so t .SO S SO (i 32
NOTT—On Satm3 (V, Sun tln> ^ nn«l s, ulu«n \or lli< traftlr <1< tn; rvl- it. (111 Ti )|) WHY 'I i w ' Sil.le
nnv he sncpcn*trU amt Car. rim tn .nit trafltr.
TKAMSVAY in cnn;iinctioii with Yutnrlnii liailwavs.—t>AtT.Y TICKKYS, nvuilnMe o.i i Tr.uiiivnv find Tinihvay lo M.'thimviii', anrl vrtiini in Donci.lrr, <-iin In* imrctmM',1 on Triiu (.’nr.. First Cti.'. is, Od. each; Children, 9d. Ami ul-e ill i’riiuri Krc.l^c >(:Ur<ni (or liotion.li r im! JJcittin ni snmo mtes.
FAttFH ON TUAM'VAY.- ilex Hill find DoiifiiMer, (kl.; <U>.. Itelurn. 9d. Bn' Hill mid llrnvr Komi, 3d. Donea'ier flint <irovc Hand, 3d. Box Hill mid Tail's Hill, ltd. Children under ly /cars. Half Fares.
N.B.—All Return Tickets arc available on day of issue only.
19
HCPOBTE*** HAlNT., BOX HILL.
treasured by Mr. llilton. A reproduction of it appears on page ^3. It reads —
It is this dnv agreed between the Doncaster & Box Hill Electric Road Company and Mr. Henry Hilton, the former agreed to let the Tramway, the machinery and sheds to the latter for a weekly rent of one shilling. Mr. Hilton to hear all working expenses — except tear ami wear but otherwise to keep the property in good order. To run the tram on the winter time table and any extra trips that may he arranged. One month’s notice to he giren to terminate this contract.
M. Glassford (Director).
Janies Cook (Secretary C
H. J. Hilton.
Received the sum of one shilling being one week's rent.
J. Cook.
For nearly two years Mr. Hilton worked almost day and night to keep the tram running. Only his expert knowledge combined with his dogged perseverance and optimism made this possible. The return for the first twelve months, in which a total of 13,00ft miles was run, was £330 and the expenses were £331.
At the time the orchardists of the district were experiencing a had time and as there seemed to he no prospect of improvement Mr. llilton gave the requisite notice and the tram ran its last trip on 6th January. 1896.
LOCAL JOI RAAL S POST MORTEM REVIEW.
The ‘"Box Hill Reporter"" wrote its obituary thus —
It is with regret we have to announce the closing of tile above tramway at the end of the present week. For some time past it lias been apparent to even the casual observer that its active solicitation for traffic was hut ill rewarded, the car very frequently making two and sometimes three trips in succession without carrying a passenger. A slight resume of its career mav not he out of place at the present juncture.
20
TIME TABLE. IN CONJUNCTION WITH VICTORIAN RAILWAYS
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER. DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
WEEK DAYS UrURDAY IftCCrTEb WEEK DAYS SATURDAY tkCOTKD
SATURDAYS SATURDAYS
SUNDAYS 1 SUNDAYS
tpMlal Trip* by AriM|Mm.al ■ l»B«> M. J MILTON BOA MILL
Pouter which was displayed on suburban railway stations.
21
The original plant made its debut at the Centennial Exhibition-, under the auspices of the Great Southern Electric Company, where it was highly favoured. At the cdose of the Exhibition it passed into the hands of a Company formed for the purpose of running it on the present road which teas surveyed expressly for it. Meeting with financial diflieulties, that Company went into liquidation, and from its ashes arose the present Company, who. with an eve to increasing business, secured more powerful machinery.
Following on the collapse of the land boom, the Company became involved in litigation with adjacent land owners, pending the settlement of whose claims the line was stopped, from which blow it never properly recovered. When it was ready to start again, all trouble was prophesied at an end, but that was not to be, as on the trial trip the motors were disabled by defective engineering and even after repairs were effected the running was most unsatisfactory, stoppages of two and three days frequently occurring.
In March, 1892, the present lessee was placed in charge, an event which seemed to mark a new era, as the cars assumed more regularity in their running, and on the following Easter Monday over 1500 passengers were safely carried over the line without the slightest hitcli. After successfully manipulating the electric apparata of the cars, Mr. Hilton turned his attention to the outside circuit, and dhcarding the auxiliary ground wire, bonded the rails with copper loops, an operation 'which, together with his ordinary duties, occupied six weeks, over 1000 holes being drilled in the rails, and 500 copper loops inserted, the immediate effect of which was an increase of speed, and an appreciable reduction in the consumption of fuel.
Evil times again overtook the tramway when the local banks suspended. Traffic went, down to zero, and to minimise the effect the mileage was reduced one-third. Failing to recover any lost ground, the Company turned to Mr. Hilton and offered to lease the plant to him at a nominal rent until better times returned, a most indefinite
22
Ajreement math' between Doncaster, Dux Hill Electric Read Co. ami U. J. Ililfvit.
23
period a? events have proved. For the space of one year and nine months it has heen in the hands of the lessee, pursuing the even tenor of its way with unvarying regularity. Still, fortune declined to smile upon the venture, trafiie ha? steadily dwindled, until hope being past, nothing was left hut to allow it to ealiulv expire.
We cannot refrain from expressing our conviction that this is one of the greatest calamities which has yet occurred in this district. What might have heen ultimately a source of great wealth to Doncaster, with all its beautiful scenerv. and its popularity as a resort for pleasure parties, is thus allowed to slip past. That its well-to-do residents should permit this excellent service to cease, instead of coining to the aid of those who have for so long stood by their patriotic venture, surpasses our comprehension. We understand it will regenerate at Ruther-glen.
After the closing of the traniwav its assets were sold. A good deal of the copper wire was stolen.
Credit must he given to the late .Mr, Richard Serpell for his untiring ell'oris as a director of the Company. He gave his time, money and physical assistance; his interest in the venture never waned, and it was not until after the plant had heen wrecked and dispersed, that lie handed over the Delegation Deeds of the road to tin* Box Hill Council.
The Doncaster Box Hill Kleetrio Road Co. was struck oir the Register on 10th February, 1899.
To-day all that remains to remind one that the first electric tram in Australia ran between Box Hill and Doncaster, are. traces of the concrete foundation of the engine shed. Despite politicians* promises, no railway yet runs to Doncaster.
However, the Melbourne & Metropolitan Tramway Board's electric trams are slowly hut surely approaching the pleasant little town.
24
COPY OF TESTIMONIAL REFERRED TO IN FOREWORD.
VICTORIAN RAILWAYS
Telegraph Superintendent's O/liec. Melbourne.
20 "M90:L
Mr. H. J. Ifiltou.
Dear Sir.
From what I know of the manner in which you worked tin: Rox Hill trams 1 can only speak in terms of the highest admiration.
You were not only in charge, hut your own stoker, engine driver, dynamo attendant, and armature winder, a combination which satisfied me you were suitable for a much belter position than you had there, and 1 should have been glad to avail myself of your services, had the departmental regulations permitted.
T have heard only good reports of von since, f feel sure you would give satisfaction to anvone securing your services.
Yours faithfully,
W. N. Holmes,
Tel. Supl.
25
Reminiscences of H. J. Hilton
THE BROTHERS ISAACS ENJOYED TIIK TRIP.
Mr, Isaac Isaac* I afterwards Governor-General i together Avitli hi* father and brother would often take a trip out the line. Thev would arrive bv the first afternoon train at Box Hill, take the ear to Doncaster, then take the road on foot to Templestowr and Heidelberg, a pleasant walk on a line dav with views of the ‘*Yarra.“
A LEGISLATIVE COMPETITOR.
An ex M.L.A. cure {tot on the Car at Box Hill and when asked for his fare, with cold hauteur, exhibited a gold Railway pass. He was told that all passengers on the car were required to pav the fare. He paid. Two weeks later he started a line of two-horse cabs (three? in number} running from the Doncaster Hotel to Kew. That service ceased after nine days trial. It was said the onlv passenger carried was Mr. Stutt. ex -M.L.A.
IRRITATING TACTICS OF LOCAL CRITICS.
Several old residents of Doncaster had the idea that the presence of the tramway blocked the possibility of a railway there. One of these who had often aired the view came to the ear one morning and tendering a half-crown asked for a ticket to town. He was given a combined Rail and Tram ticket with a shilling change. On reading the ticket lie said ‘‘First class! I want second class."" He was told there was no second class on the tram and that ticket was issued as a special concession bv the Railway Depl. Thereupon he said he would take a ticket to Box Hill, so the ticket was exchanged with a refund of nine pence. "Now." hr averred, in a tone of triumph. ‘T can go second class. Quite true it was agreed, and it was then pointed out that the tram ticket was ninepenee and the second class rail ticket would be ninepenee: together, that was the price of the tieket lie had rejected. In his astonishment he ejaculated “Mein Gott! Live and Learn." To add to his diseomforturo he was informed the exchange was a benefit to the tramway. This caused him to think furiously. to the amusement of others on the car.
20
TECHNICAL TROUBLES.
Coasting downhill from Doncaster, an insulator on tlic overhead wire came adrift as the trolley passed, throw* ing it away from the wire, the pole swung round, caught on a bracket and fractured the wooden casing, rendering it useless. Arriving at the creek all alone, the disabled pole was removed from the "trolly stick"’ and a length of fencing wire was taken a few turns on the ‘'stick.”
The rheostat was placed half way: then ‘'squatting” on top of the car the free end of wire was held against the line wire as tin* car moved up the hill. On turning the brow of the rise at Grove? Hoad the driver descended and took charge with the brake, this brought the car to the ‘'Barn” where it was docked and the Box Car was placed in commission to take up the schedule.
What a chance it would have been for a photographer to take a ''snap"’ as the car climbed the hill and label the result ''A monkev on a stick!”
CLEKGYMAjVS IIKCT1C HIDE.
On one occasion a reverend gentleman of Doncaster made request fov a return trip, to leave Box Hill at fip.m. and return from Doncaster at 10p.ni. At the appointed time the passengers arrived, forty-fix c in all. being nine move than expected, 'flic trip up was dnlv made, and at 10 p.m. the car xvas ready for the return (mention must be made that after the incident above recorded, the trolly pole was always lied down on that section from Doncaster to the creek I. With all aboard and the brake released the car moved olf down the hill, as the speed increased the brake xvas applied without appreciable effect; the trolly being held oil" the line wire there xvas no light on the car, only an oil lamp as head light. The passengers had no idea that thing? were not as they should be, and forty-five strong voices gave vent to “Hold the fort for I am coming” while the driver put all his energy into applying the brake. At a point near “Whittons Lane” there xvas about txvo hundred yards of practically level track over which the car travelled xvitli uudiiniiiished speed, then a doxvn grade to the creek. At the creek there xvas a sharp
27
curve the centre of which "a* immediately on the bridge. The writer had always regarded this with disfavour as requiring great attention: periodically the dog spikes were examined, particularly the outer and the cheek rails, and it. was only a few days previous he had taken a "heater” and packed the ballast under the sleepers giving the curve at its centre the proper "batter.--
Arriving at the bridge the car swiftly and safely negotiated the curve and took the; upgrade three hundred yards to a stop, when the trolly was put in place on the overhead wire.
It may be recorded that no accident or hurt to any person ever occurred on the tram line during its existence.
ORIGIN OF WELL-KNOWN TRADE MARK.
On many of the poles which carried the overhead wires was a sign J B— conjoined. I hese were put there by James Barnes who was for a time employed bv the contractor who erected the poles. Later this sign was to come very widely known on James Rarnes’s honey — the same James Barnes having established the company dealing in this commodity.
OCR using ABBYY Finereader July2018
Electric
First
Tram
by J. K. MOIR
MELBOURNE 19 4 0
Foreword
By mere chance I became acquainted with Mr. II. .1. Hilton, whose story is recounted in those pages.
Tlie contents of this little booklet Humid not only intere>t those of an historical turn of mind, hut all Victorians. as it is tin* storv of the first electric tramway in Australia; indeed it is claimed to he the first in the Southern Hemisphere.
Certainlv it was the first in Australia. In V.S.W . the first electric Iramwav along Military Road. iVortli Sydney, was opened 20th September, 1893. Adelaide did not convert her trains to the electric system until 9th March, 1909. Perth electric tramways, run hy an English Company, wore opened 21th September. 1899. Tasmania was early in the field. In 1893. Hobart was served hy an electric system owned bv a private Company. The scheme is now operated bv the Hobart Municipal Council. Brisbane changed over from horse-drawn to electric trams in 1896-7.
I'he opening of the tramwav between Box Hill and Doncaster scents to owe its origin to the Land Boom existing at the time. Those who were not alive in those stirring davs can have little conception of the conditions ruling. Fortunes were made — on paper. The frenzv culminated in tin* Bank Smash. Chaotic financial conditions prevailed and it is no source of wonder that the tramwav clo-ed.
Too much credit cannot he given to Mr. Hilton for his fight to keep it running. Ilis faith was almost akin to his ability. So that there can be no question on the latter score a testimonial is included, and hv its contents it can he gauged that Mr. Hilton is a man not easily discouraged.
Mr. Hilton introduced and worked electric tramway traction in the Chiltern Valley gold mines, and this is claimed as being the first occasion in Victoria that such traction was used underground.
This booklet is a tribute to him and at the same time is a true record of the vicissitudes of the Box Hill — Doncaster electric iramwav companies, and as such T offer it.
J. K. MOIR.
2
.1 lie Ueuesis
An extract from the Oilicial Record of the Centennial International Exhibition, opened in Melbourne on 1st August. 188R. reads—
"An electrie railway exliibite<l liv Messrs. W. IT. Masters & Co. was opened to the public on 19lh November. J«58«C It ran for fifty-eight (lavs and bv agreement the Executive Commissioners received o()'7 of the gross re* ceipts or £106. (The exact amount was £10r»/jr» ]] ). It was constructed M>ulh of. and parallel with, the Switchback Railway. '1 'In* site was at the northern end of the Gardens and the line ran parallel to Carlton Street, hut although most interesting as an exhibit, did not appear to meet with the patronage from the public that was anticipated."
Another extract from the same record reads —
"Another form of electric action is propulsion which within the last few years has been carried bevond the experimental stage. A great stride forward in this branch of electric enterprise was the system of accumulators which la.-t nine hours at a stretch. Coeomotives based on the latter principle are doing work dnilv in a satisfactory manner on the section of tin* London Metropolitan Tram-wavs between Stratford Church and Manor Park, the length of which is live miles out and five miles in. which occupies t wen tv minutes each wav. with five minutes allowed for stopping and turning.”
The Judges at the Exhibition — or Juries as they were termed—awarded the exhibit a First Order of Merit and their report reads —
■‘Electric tramway, motors and dynamos. This is a most complete exhibit, and deserves great praise' for its eompletene>s of system lighting (arc and incandescent) motors and traction.”
WHERE THE EXHIBITS WENT.
To place all other electrical exhibits on the close of the Exhibition was a simple matter: the ear was another
3
matter. The problem was solved when Mr. T. T. Draper came into contact with a land syndicate in the eastern suburbs, and The Box Hill Doncaster Electric Tramwav came into existence, as set out hereunder.
The plant taken over from the exhibition consisted of — An open six “bench” car; wooden framing running hoards both sides, back? of seats reversible; and equipped with a doubtful 22 H.P. motor, double reduction, with rawhide pinions: a rheostat operated bv a leather strap encircling a wooden barrel, a reversing switch of two-leg, and three-contact type, two main switches over the driving ends, and a fuse placed on the main framing on side of car. This completed the equipment. The spiral springs of tin* trollev were placed vertically, and the trolley pole of four feet six inches in length, as used at the Exhibition, was built tip of four iron rods extended apart in the centre. This was discarded for use at Box Hill, ami a trolley pole; of wood with ■] inch iron core substituted to reach the regulation height of 21 feet. The Dynamo was a Thomson-IIoiistoii type with “spherical or hall*' armature. listed as a “100 Incandescence Machine” as distinguished from the Are Light Machine I which had a three part commutator I. At the Exhibition the dvnaitio ran at 1000 R.P.AT.— at Box Hill it was speeded up to 1.200 H.P.AT., and the voltage increased from 100 to aOO. in which no allowance was made for elleet on the control o( the ear. The Engine was one of two made bv the “Ball Engine Ho.”, Erie. Pennsylvania. U.S.A., a 10 x 12 with overhanging (Iv-wheels. one of T 6” which housed the governor; the oilier .V 6” carried the belt to the dvnaitio; the speed of the engine was 27.”) R.P.M. One feature of these engines was the small clearance given the piston at end of the stroke, and care had to he exerrised in adjusting the crank and crosshead connections. (The "mate of the Box Hill engine went to the Nicholson Street power house of the cable trains, for lighting purposes. The matter of piston clearance may have been overlooked as the engine “disintegrated." Air. Ililton had provided against that contingency, ensuring a greater clearance bv inserting a thicker joint in the back cylinder covert.
4
Of instruments in tin; engine room there is little to rerun!. There were no volt and ampere meters. Tive 100 V. lamps in series would show the dynamo was functioning. Above the switchboard was fixed a magnetic lightning arrester. The said switchboard of matchboard carried a solitary knife switch, and a steam pressure gauge placed on the wall completed the engine room.
1'he Boiler was 12' x 3’ 6” in barrel with dome and 30 tubes: under fired, set in brickwork, no side flues, and 30' of 1-1” iron smoke stack. Feed wafer was taken from a dtun speeiallv constructed for that purpose. A Vatixhall pump and Penberthv Injector supplied the water to boiler. I The dam is still in existence).
T11E BOX 1IILE & DONCASTER TRAMWAY Co. Ltd.
This Company was incorporated under the Companies Statute of 1861 on the 21th October, 1888. The Capital was £13.000 in 15,000 shares of £1 each. The signatories to the Memorandum of Association and number of shares
held were —
Charles Frederick Tavlor, 23 Selborne Chandlers.
Chancery Lane, Barrister at Law. .. .. 1000
W illiam Sell. Doncaster, Agent. .. .. 500
Richard Set-pell. Doncaster. Farmer. .. 1000
William Meador, Box Mill, Agent. .. .. .. 500
Percy Joseph Russell, Queen Street, Melbourne,
Solicitor. ..................................... 500
On 1st August, 1889, William Mcader. Chairman, presented the first half-yearly report and balance sheet. Up to that date — the date of the balance sheet— 30/6/89, £4599/16/3 had already been spent on the permanent way. The tramline was expected to he in working order early in October. lie declared it to he the first electric tramway in the Southern Hemisphere.
5
The Balance Sheet showed —
Capital Paid up £5942 10 0 Brokerage Ad-
Deposit from vertisinp and
Contractor 140 0 0 Flotation Kx-penses £328 0 7
Secretary . . General Expen- 102 0 0
ses 25 19 1
Cost of Con-
struction to date 4599 16 3
First I n s t a 1-ment on E 1 c c-tvic Plant . . -. 1000 0 0
Balance 26 5 1
£6082 10 0 £6082 10 0
CAPITAL A/C.
Capital called up
3190 shares fa 20/- £3190 0 0 I Paid . . . £5942 10 0
6270 ,. fa 15 - 4792 10 0 Owing . 2115 0 0
150 ,, fa 10/- 75 0 0 1
cc o O' -1 10 0 £8057 10 0
The auditors were Fred McDonough and Squire As-pinall. and the secretary, Koliert F. Cow. I Market Buildings. oH William Street. Mellmurne,
The first return of shareholders lodged 2nd October. JM80. flowed off shareholders,
The Company, through its solicitors. Tavlor and Bussell. sulunitted the plans of the proposed tramwav to (he .Nunawading Shire at its meeting held JJhh Kehniarv, 1880. The Council pointed out that no arrangements had heen made hetween the Coinpanv and the Council, and it was resolved to ask the Company to forward further particulars. These particulars came Indore the Council at its March meeting.
The Company proposed to take a lease of the train for 30 years ami at the termination of that time the Coun-
6
Tram arriving at Doncaster on opening day.
Photo taken at Box Hill terminus at opening ceremony. 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.
7
oil could have the plant at valuation upon giving six months’ notice prior to the expiry of 30 vears. hut. if notice, was not given, the Company was to have a further lease for five years and so on until notice was given. The Company undertook to keep so much of the road as was neces-sarv for the tramway in repair.
The conditions were agreed to and the preparation of the road went on with such speed that the local press reported on 12th April of the same year that the road ‘;was almost completed as far as the White Horse Road. Thus a fine thoroughfare has heen formed right through to Doncaster, which, under ordinary circumstances, would not have heen undertaken for vears.5'
The Opening Ceremony
The “Age" in its issue of 15th October, 1889 reports:
The electric tramway which has heen constructed from Box Hill to Doncaster, a distance of 2.] miles, was formally opened yesterday, and trial trips of a most successful character were made along the route. The enterprise* was undertaken by the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Com* pjiny Ltd., about 18 months ago, and although a great many obstacles have had to he encountered, the works have just been brought to a satisfactory termination.
A large number of gentlemen accepted the invitation of the directors to he present at the opening ceremony'.
Tin; terminus ;it Box Hill is at tlm intersection of White Horse Road and Station Street, right in the centre of the township, and it runs through pleasant undulating country to the Tower Hotel.
The rails are laid on blue-gum sleepers let into the surface of a metalled road which has been formed for the purpose.
Some heavy cuttings and embankments have been necessary, hut, in spite of considerable outlay in this direction, it has been found impossible from the nature of the country to avoid making some verv stoop inclines. The grade up the hill into Doncaster is the steepest on the line, the ground rising as much as one foot in sixteen, and in several other places the grade is nearlv as great.
On account of the difficulty in obtaining land along the route it has not been possible* to lav the track in a straight line so that sharp curves have combined with steep gradients to give the experiment a severe and searching test.
'I he motive power for driving the car is generated in an engine house* which is situated about half wav along the route*. The engine is of the* American Ball tvpc*. of ”»0 horse power actual, e'apablr of running H00 revolutions per niinute*. 'Flu* dynamo driven bv tin* engine runs at tin* rate of IKK) revedutions pe*r minute*, and gives a current of edeetricity of J{() ampe*res at 100 volts. The: motive power is supplied to the* car bv an overhead wire, which is suspended above* the* track about IT feet from the: ground. Posts are placed along both sides of the roael in pairs, and from a wire stretelmel l>e*twee*u them, tin* copper wire which carries the* curmit is suspcneled. Tim power is transinitteel to the car itself by means of a long arm which stretches upwarel from the: vehicle. At the upper enel of the arm a pullev is fixed which runs along the wire anel thu9 establishes an electrical eemtaet. One car only is used, and the apparatus for propulsion is placed under the platform, so that it is quite itifiemspteuous, as the motor
9
occupies but very little space. The current from the engine dynamo induces a north and south magnetic field in the magnets of the motor, and this, creating a corresponding state in the armature, causes the latter to revolve, the revolutions being transmitted by toothed gearing to the axles of the car. Resistance coil? are provided for absorbing the current when the vehicle is going downhill. The ear when loaded weighs about six tons, but the motor has a power of about 15 horse's, and it is fullv equal to propelling such a weight, and the engine in tin* shed is siififi-oieutlv powerful to drive two other ears of equal size.
This electrical svstem hy the over-head wire is the {latent cf the Thompson-Houston Company of the I'nited States, and it has come into use in many places in America. The first tramways on this {dan were laid down in 1885. and at present there are 316 miles in operation and many more under construction. It is thought that this svstem will prove more feasible than tin* method of driving cars from electricity stored in jars, but at present the matter has scarcely emerged from the experimental stage.
The gentlemen who assembled at Box Hill yesterday to try the new means of propulsion had a very pleasant experience, as tin* trip was of a most enjoyable character. The seats are ranged across the ear. occupying its entire length and accommodating 35 to 10 persons, though on several occasions it was made to carry a greater number of people. W hen all was ready for a start, the brake was removed and the vehicle glided down the track with a smooth and easy motion. Starting down a considerable slope the pace was allowed to increase after tin- style of the switch hack railway, until the ear was travelling some 12 or 1 1 miles an hour, ami the impetus attained in this way was used in mounting the opposite slope. The pace was slackened considerably in going up the hills, and on the steepest grades onlv 5 mile.-; an hour was attempted, hut still the average speed was good throughout, and the whole distance of 2] miles was covered in 20 minutes. The cars will run regularly from this date, and the Company proposes to charge 6d. for the single journey.
10
Tlie Banquet
After the Metropolitan portion of the visitor* hod hern conveyed to Doncaster hv the tram, a banquet was served in the 'lower Hotel to commemorate the successful completion of the works. Mr. W illiam Meador, the chairman of the Bon Hill and Doncaster Tramway Company presided, having on his right Mr. E. II. Cameron, MX.A., and Mr. C. J. Ham. M.L.C.: and on his left, Mr. James Balfour, M.L.C.. and Mr. F. Stuart. MX.A. There were also present Mr. C. F. Tavlor. MX.A.. Mr E. J. Dixon. MX.A., Professor Kernol, Captain Rowan, Mr. B. J. Fink. Cr. Hicks, the President of the Boroondara shire. Cr. Haugliton, President of the Nunawading shire. Cr. Hunter, President of tin* Bulleen shire. Mr. A. J. Arnot, the superintending electrician of the Iratnwav, Air. R. F. Gow. the secretary of the Company, and others.
’Pile President read a telegram from the Premier who expressed his regret that an important cabinet meeting would prevent his attendance.
The toast of the Queen, the Acting-Governor, and T.ady Robinson were honoured with enthusiasm. Cr. llaughton. the President of the Nunawading shin’, proposed tin* toast of the Ministrv coupled with the name of Mr. E. H. Cameron. MX.A. Mr. Cameron said lie had been asked to respond because he held the position commonly known as the Government whip, lie thought that perhaps it was just as well that Mr. Gillies was not present to reply in person, for in that ease he might have hern called upon to slate why the Railway Bill had hren dropped. The Railway question was one which had a special interest for the Doncaster district, and the promoters of the tramway had received much opposition, because it was supposed tin* tramway would forw’ard an excuse for postponing the construction of the railway to that suburb. That supposition was, however, erroneous, for lie felt satisfied tile Doncaster railway would he included in the next construction hill, f Cheers).
Cr. Ellingsworth, of the Nunawading shire, gave the toast of the Parliament of Victoria. He knew that many
11
people had been looking anxiously for the railway hill, hut there was another measure that was also much required namely, the Local Government Bill.
Mr. Cameron: It will he introduced next week.
Cr. Ellingsworth said he was verv glad to hear it. for they had been waiting for the hill for 10 years.
Mr. Balfour, M.L.C. in responding, referred to the good accomplished by the Coalition Government. Speak* ing of the desire expressed for the construction of a railway to the suburb, he remarked the electric tramway would prove verv useful until such time as the railway was completed, and in addition to that he was very glad that the enterprise had been carried through, if only it was for the pluck and energy showed in making use of the new invention.
Mr. C. J. Ham, M.L.C. ill acknowledging the toasts referred briefly to the Pnrliamentarv business, and expressed the hope that the new Health Bill would receive some modification in the way of protecting the interests of the country districts.
Mr. E. J. Dixon. M.L.A. also hrieflv responded.
Mr. B. J. Fink proposed the Municipal Corporations of the Colonv. which he described as a credit to Victoria, and the admiration of all our political visitors.
Crs. Hicks, Hunter and Haughtou responded to the toast and expressed the hope that the tramwav would he a success equal to the merit of the enterprise.
Mr. Frank Smart, M.L.A., said that after what they had witnessed of the latest adaptation of the wonders of electricity to the needs of man, it gave him great pleasure to propose Success and Prosperity to the Box Hill and Doncaster Tramway Co. Ltd.
Mr. William Meader, the chairman of directors, in acknowledging the toast, said it gave him very great pleasure to be present on the occasion after all the difficulties that he and his co-directors had passed through. They had received a good deal of opposition from the residents of the district, and they had been scoffed at by almost evervone for attempting such a mad*brained scheme.
Doncaster had now an improved means of coniniuni-
12
cation, ami lie hoped it would have the railway also, hut if Government refused to make' it he was prepared to float a company and make a start within !M hours.
Mr. C. F. Tavlor. M.L.A., one of the directors, said that he had often read of inventions in the past having hern received with distrust and opposition, hut he could not believe that the same spirit could have been shown at the present day if he hadn't experienced it himself. He was glad to hear that there was a good prospect of tin* Doncaster line being included in the Kailway Kill, hut even if it was passed it would take five years before the line could he completed.
Professor Kernot in responding on hclialt of the Union Llectric Company of Australia Ltd., stated that it would probnblv not he long before electricilv was used upon locomotives in place of steam, lie considered the success of the traniwav was a good evidence of the, soundness of the system, because in tins instance it was applied in hilly country and under unfavourable conditions.
The Toasts of the Officers of the. Compum. The Press and The Ladies were also honoured, and tilt* proceedings then terminated.
LOCAL OPTIMISM.
'I'lie venture promised to he a success. An extract from the “Box Hill and Camberwell Cxpress’ ol 1st November. I8H9 reported "The electric Irani at Kox Mill is proving a paying concern. On the opening dav there were manv who unhesitatingly slated that it would not pay for axle grease. These people are now surprised that the line is so well patronised that a second ear is rendered necessary."
The ‘‘Kox Hill Keporter" in its issue of 8rd January, 1890, stated that the electric train was well patronised and worked even better than the railway did on the occasion of the visit of a large crowd on Boxing Day.
In April, 1890, the second half-yearly Balance Sheet was presented.
It was reported that the one electric car at present running had proved totally inadequate and that steps had been taken to order another with double power which, it
13
was expected, would be delivered in four months. It also reported that the directors had found it necessary to become personally liable for over £800; so therefore, the balance owing on shares, 5/-, would be called up.
The Profit and Loss Account for the first six months working showed that working expenses had been £170 A). 3 ami receipts £528/16/5, showing a credit of £58/7/2.
FIRST RIFTS IN THE LUTE.
However, this happy state of things did not continue. A dispute arose with a shareholder who had ceded a strip of land to the Company in consideration of shares.
The ^Box Hill Reporter" of 21st June'. 1891 stated —
The dispute that has existed with regard to the tram for some time has again resulted in the car being stopped and the rails pulled up. On Friday last, the Manager for the proprietor received notice that the traffic would have to he stopped or forcible means would he used. The employees all received their dismissal ami the Car was locked up in the shed. Saturday eame and two fences were erected at either boundary of the South Doncaster Co's. Estate. During Sunday night some person or persons knocked the fences to pieces and removed the materials, hut the parties who erected the fences, not to be outdone, chopped down the posts that earrv the wire and strewed the debris all over the road.
We understand that a movement is on foot to divert the route so as to escape the land in question. The new line is planned to follow the Koornung Creek along and thence across the main Doncaster Road, near Messrs. Lowe & Smedley's forge. If something is not done shortly, we understand that Mr. Thompson, the owner, will remove the plant to some other suburb whore we hope his investment will meet with more cordiality and inducement.
After the Doncaster Council adjourned on Monday night, a number of the ratepayers held a meeting to discuss the question. Cr. Sell having been voted to the Chair briefly stated what he took to be the cause of the dispute. Cr. 'fully also spoke on the seriousness of the matter to Doncaster and Box Hill, and moved the following resolu-
14
tion— That Messrs. T. Petty. Thiele and Schramm he deputed to try and bring about a reconciliation between the two contending parties. Mr. Cameron had much pleasure in seconding the resolution and said if these gentlemen could obtain the object tlirv would earn the thanks of the residents of Doncaster. The Chairman and Mr. R. Serpell said they did not think there was much likelihood of a settlement being effected a? tliev thought the matter had gone too far. hut there would he no harm in trying. Hie other land owners along the line who had given their land to have the tram were greatlv incensed, and justly too, at the shameful treatment thev had received. The speakers thought it would he better to ignore the Estate Co., and try to work out the new route.
After a desullorv discussion the motion was carried.
FIRST COMPANY KAILS.
In a later issue — 26'6, 11591 — the same journal contained this — It appears that the closing of this Road by the South Doncaster Kami Co. has met with considerable opposition and disapproval at the hands of the residents of Doncaster and Rox Hill if an opinion is to he formed from the action that is being taken to keep the thoroughfare open.
During Sunday and Monday an clligv which had been carefully made, was suspended on the cross wire at the terminus of the tram line in Doncaster. The effigy has been provided with a belltopper to which is securely fastened the following inscription. "A F • - - Sad! Sad! The sad effects of rail lifting. The above will In* burnt in effigy on Saturday evening at 15 p.m. All are cordially invited.*’
Matters drifted on in an unsatisfactory way — shareholders were so tired of the position that an Extraordinary meeting was called for 1th January, 11592 to wind up the Company as it was unable to meet its liabilities. Mr. Robert Ferguson was appointed Liquidator at a remuneration of 20% of the gross proceeds.
On 3rd June, 1898, the Company was struck oil the Register as a defunct Company.
15
New Company Formed
Despite the failure of the Box Hill — Doncaster Co. there were evidently some who thought the proposition worth a further trial as on 25th January, 1892, a new Company “’The Doncaster and Box Hill Electric Road Company lad.” was registered under Companies Act of 1890. “To construct, lay down, make, manage, work and maintain a tramway commencing in Station Street, Box Hill, in the Parish of Nunawading opposite the Box Hill station or thereabouts, then running north along Station Street aforesaid through the properties owned hy Charles Frederick Taylor, the Box Hill Township Estate Company Ltd., Richard Serpell and George Wright to the Koornung Creek thence in a North Westerly direction along a road surveyed out ami the properties of the Bank of South Australia, John Woolcock, Frederick Wilson, Edward Wilson, the South Doncaster Estate Company Lid., William Behrens and Edward Gallus to the Doncaster Road, thence across the Doncaster Road lo Williamson's Road, thenee running along Williamson's Road to the junction of the Heidelberg and Templestowe Roads, and to construct, lay down, make, manage, work and maintain tramways in any part or parts of tilt; Shires of Nunawading and Doncaster in the County of Bourko, and to construct, erect, and maintain all buildings, bridges, culverts and erections of any nature or kind whatsoever and provide all machinery, rolling stock, working gear, working chattels and to do all acts, matters and things necessary, convenient or expedient for any such or all of such objects and to repair and keep in repair any. each and all of such tramways.’'
The Company was empowered to run omnibuses as well, and to carry on the business of electricians, mechanical engineers, and dealers in electricity for motive power and light, to light streets, public, places, buildings, factories, railways and tramways.
Capital: £12,000 in 12,000 shares of £1 each.
1G
The “Power House” was a Corrugated Iron structure one end of ivhich Was used as a car barn until the box ear came to hand, then a separate “barn” was built to contain two cars with inspection pit for one.
Type of ticket used.
17
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SUBSCRIBERS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF ASSOCIATION.
Thomas Thcopliilus Draper. 356 Queen St.,
Electrician 900 shares
William Ellingworth. Box Hill. Gentleman 138 ,,
Alfred Serpell, Box Hill, Land Owner . . 58
Richard Serpell. Doncaster, Laud Owner .. 884 „
M. Glassford, 372 Flinders St.. Merchant .. 1800 ,,
5/2/1892.
Witness to Signatures —
Robert F. Gow, 58 William St., Melbourne.
Tile Solicitors were Messrs. Taylor, Russell & Ren-wiek. Salisbury Buildings, Queen St., Melbourne.
The Memo of Association lodged does not indicate that any assets of the former Company were taken over, neither does it contain anything about the payment of any consideration to anyone, but the Summary lodged, stating that there were 5.000 shares paid up. seems to imply that these were given as a consideration for something that i3 not disclosed in the papers filed.
The new Company appointed Mr. IL J. Hilton engineer, and operations commenced in March. The land difficulty was overcome by altering the route as was set out in the prospectus.
The engineer took one motor from the box car and installed it on the open six bench ear, which was again placed in commission. This scheme effected a saving of 259? of fuel.
The tram was run by the Coinpanv with many breaks and experienced many vicissitudes until 1894. Tin* Bank Smash of 1893 and the closing of the English, Scottish and Chartered Bank in Box Hill, the Company's Bank, were severe blows.
COMPANY'S ENGINEER TAKES OVER.
In 1894 the Directors, as a hist resort, offered the proposition to the Engineer for the Coinpanv, Mr. II. J. Hilton. The agreement in connection with this is a curious one written on an ordinary piece of writing paper and is
OCTOBER 16th. 1B93, until further notice.
DONCASTER & BOX HILL ELECTRIC ROAD C0„ Limited.
TI7WE THBLE
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER.
WEEK DAYS (R«turJ',,,s curpud! WEEK DAYS
Mclbmirno .. , ,<lrp 0 !) 0 lit) it 11 1) 112 20j 1 20 o 20 So; •1 IS, •% *>r»
Kox Hill Station .. ,.nrr. ■S !> ss'io 11 33 12 30. 2 0 0 S.v 30 s 20j r» r.s
Box Hill Terminus .. . .Jep. •s :>i>; «) r»o it) sc 11 50j 1 0 •) 3 S 1 10 r. r.
Doncaster .. ..srr. 5 !jo .-> ;il 12 5 1 15, 2 20 ,1 20, S3- o -to! 15 20
DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
Doncaster ..aep. H 20! y 20 10 20 11 20,12 2l 1 20 2 20 3 43 6 1 5 45
Box Hill Terminus .. ftrr. N 351 !> OS 10 3511 3Sll2 3*, 1 33 2 33 4 0 ", 20, 0 0
Flov Hill Station .. Jep. H 42, ',) 4 t!lO 4211 1112 42 1 12 2 42 1 9 5 29 r, 9
Me Ibonrne .. . -arr. 0 IdJlO 17(11 IS 12 irl i IS 2 1,3 :t IS 4 42 a ■> fi 41
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER.
SATURDAYS ONLY. SATURDAYS ONLY
Melbourne .. (iep. 112 20 1 is. 3 S , is 4 S
Box Hill Station nrr. ». 5 112 S3 1 so. 3 !0| 21 1 10
Itox Hill Terminus dep. i 'is 2 0 1 3 tSI *25 S 0
JVmc/ister .. nrr. 2 13| 4 0 I it S IS
DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
Doncaster .. . .dip. 112 20, 1 30 2 17 I 0 | 40! IS. r, 40
Box Hill Terminus .. .. ftrr. - -;i2 1 IS 2 32 i i s' ss! r, 30 0 55
Box Hill Station ...lei.. 12 42, 1 so 2 30 1 19 SO1 S 391 \\
Melbourne .. .. ..nrr. ““1 1 is! 2 32 3 12 1 32, 5 32! <; 12) 12
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER (SUNDAYS) DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE
Melbourne ..112 U» 1 SSI 2 ;.S| 3 SSI • lionea'ti'r .. 1 ss 2 SS 3 .SSI I S3 5 50
Box Hill Stat’n! 1 IS1 2 30 3 1 30 30 B,ix Hill Ter. 2 in 3 10 4 10 S 10 0 11)
Box Hill Term. 1 20 2 33 3 ;j;,| I :isl 33 Box Hill St'u. 2 17 3 17 I 1?' S 17 C, 19
Doncaster . .1 1 33 2 Stll 3 sol i sol SO Meibom lie ,. 2 SO so t .SO S SO (i 32
NOTT—On Satm3 (V, Sun tln> ^ nn«l s, ulu«n \or lli< traftlr <1< tn; rvl- it. (111 Ti )|) WHY 'I i w ' Sil.le
nnv he sncpcn*trU amt Car. rim tn .nit trafltr.
TKAMSVAY in cnn;iinctioii with Yutnrlnii liailwavs.—t>AtT.Y TICKKYS, nvuilnMe o.i i Tr.uiiivnv find Tinihvay lo M.'thimviii', anrl vrtiini in Donci.lrr, <-iin In* imrctmM',1 on Triiu (.’nr.. First Cti.'. is, Od. each; Children, 9d. Ami ul-e ill i’riiuri Krc.l^c >(:Ur<ni (or liotion.li r im! JJcittin ni snmo mtes.
FAttFH ON TUAM'VAY.- ilex Hill find DoiifiiMer, (kl.; <U>.. Itelurn. 9d. Bn' Hill mid llrnvr Komi, 3d. Donea'ier flint <irovc Hand, 3d. Box Hill mid Tail's Hill, ltd. Children under ly /cars. Half Fares.
N.B.—All Return Tickets arc available on day of issue only.
19
HCPOBTE*** HAlNT., BOX HILL.
treasured by Mr. llilton. A reproduction of it appears on page ^3. It reads —
It is this dnv agreed between the Doncaster & Box Hill Electric Road Company and Mr. Henry Hilton, the former agreed to let the Tramway, the machinery and sheds to the latter for a weekly rent of one shilling. Mr. Hilton to hear all working expenses — except tear ami wear but otherwise to keep the property in good order. To run the tram on the winter time table and any extra trips that may he arranged. One month’s notice to he giren to terminate this contract.
M. Glassford (Director).
Janies Cook (Secretary C
H. J. Hilton.
Received the sum of one shilling being one week's rent.
J. Cook.
For nearly two years Mr. Hilton worked almost day and night to keep the tram running. Only his expert knowledge combined with his dogged perseverance and optimism made this possible. The return for the first twelve months, in which a total of 13,00ft miles was run, was £330 and the expenses were £331.
At the time the orchardists of the district were experiencing a had time and as there seemed to he no prospect of improvement Mr. llilton gave the requisite notice and the tram ran its last trip on 6th January. 1896.
LOCAL JOI RAAL S POST MORTEM REVIEW.
The ‘"Box Hill Reporter"" wrote its obituary thus —
It is with regret we have to announce the closing of tile above tramway at the end of the present week. For some time past it lias been apparent to even the casual observer that its active solicitation for traffic was hut ill rewarded, the car very frequently making two and sometimes three trips in succession without carrying a passenger. A slight resume of its career mav not he out of place at the present juncture.
20
TIME TABLE. IN CONJUNCTION WITH VICTORIAN RAILWAYS
MELBOURNE TO DONCASTER. DONCASTER TO MELBOURNE.
WEEK DAYS UrURDAY IftCCrTEb WEEK DAYS SATURDAY tkCOTKD
SATURDAYS SATURDAYS
SUNDAYS 1 SUNDAYS
tpMlal Trip* by AriM|Mm.al ■ l»B«> M. J MILTON BOA MILL
Pouter which was displayed on suburban railway stations.
21
The original plant made its debut at the Centennial Exhibition-, under the auspices of the Great Southern Electric Company, where it was highly favoured. At the cdose of the Exhibition it passed into the hands of a Company formed for the purpose of running it on the present road which teas surveyed expressly for it. Meeting with financial diflieulties, that Company went into liquidation, and from its ashes arose the present Company, who. with an eve to increasing business, secured more powerful machinery.
Following on the collapse of the land boom, the Company became involved in litigation with adjacent land owners, pending the settlement of whose claims the line was stopped, from which blow it never properly recovered. When it was ready to start again, all trouble was prophesied at an end, but that was not to be, as on the trial trip the motors were disabled by defective engineering and even after repairs were effected the running was most unsatisfactory, stoppages of two and three days frequently occurring.
In March, 1892, the present lessee was placed in charge, an event which seemed to mark a new era, as the cars assumed more regularity in their running, and on the following Easter Monday over 1500 passengers were safely carried over the line without the slightest hitcli. After successfully manipulating the electric apparata of the cars, Mr. Hilton turned his attention to the outside circuit, and dhcarding the auxiliary ground wire, bonded the rails with copper loops, an operation 'which, together with his ordinary duties, occupied six weeks, over 1000 holes being drilled in the rails, and 500 copper loops inserted, the immediate effect of which was an increase of speed, and an appreciable reduction in the consumption of fuel.
Evil times again overtook the tramway when the local banks suspended. Traffic went, down to zero, and to minimise the effect the mileage was reduced one-third. Failing to recover any lost ground, the Company turned to Mr. Hilton and offered to lease the plant to him at a nominal rent until better times returned, a most indefinite
22
Ajreement math' between Doncaster, Dux Hill Electric Read Co. ami U. J. Ililfvit.
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period a? events have proved. For the space of one year and nine months it has heen in the hands of the lessee, pursuing the even tenor of its way with unvarying regularity. Still, fortune declined to smile upon the venture, trafiie ha? steadily dwindled, until hope being past, nothing was left hut to allow it to ealiulv expire.
We cannot refrain from expressing our conviction that this is one of the greatest calamities which has yet occurred in this district. What might have heen ultimately a source of great wealth to Doncaster, with all its beautiful scenerv. and its popularity as a resort for pleasure parties, is thus allowed to slip past. That its well-to-do residents should permit this excellent service to cease, instead of coining to the aid of those who have for so long stood by their patriotic venture, surpasses our comprehension. We understand it will regenerate at Ruther-glen.
After the closing of the traniwav its assets were sold. A good deal of the copper wire was stolen.
Credit must he given to the late .Mr, Richard Serpell for his untiring ell'oris as a director of the Company. He gave his time, money and physical assistance; his interest in the venture never waned, and it was not until after the plant had heen wrecked and dispersed, that lie handed over the Delegation Deeds of the road to tin* Box Hill Council.
The Doncaster Box Hill Kleetrio Road Co. was struck oir the Register on 10th February, 1899.
To-day all that remains to remind one that the first electric tram in Australia ran between Box Hill and Doncaster, are. traces of the concrete foundation of the engine shed. Despite politicians* promises, no railway yet runs to Doncaster.
However, the Melbourne & Metropolitan Tramway Board's electric trams are slowly hut surely approaching the pleasant little town.
24
COPY OF TESTIMONIAL REFERRED TO IN FOREWORD.
VICTORIAN RAILWAYS
Telegraph Superintendent's O/liec. Melbourne.
20 "M90:L
Mr. H. J. Ifiltou.
Dear Sir.
From what I know of the manner in which you worked tin: Rox Hill trams 1 can only speak in terms of the highest admiration.
You were not only in charge, hut your own stoker, engine driver, dynamo attendant, and armature winder, a combination which satisfied me you were suitable for a much belter position than you had there, and 1 should have been glad to avail myself of your services, had the departmental regulations permitted.
T have heard only good reports of von since, f feel sure you would give satisfaction to anvone securing your services.
Yours faithfully,
W. N. Holmes,
Tel. Supl.
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Reminiscences of H. J. Hilton
THE BROTHERS ISAACS ENJOYED TIIK TRIP.
Mr, Isaac Isaac* I afterwards Governor-General i together Avitli hi* father and brother would often take a trip out the line. Thev would arrive bv the first afternoon train at Box Hill, take the ear to Doncaster, then take the road on foot to Templestowr and Heidelberg, a pleasant walk on a line dav with views of the ‘*Yarra.“
A LEGISLATIVE COMPETITOR.
An ex M.L.A. cure {tot on the Car at Box Hill and when asked for his fare, with cold hauteur, exhibited a gold Railway pass. He was told that all passengers on the car were required to pav the fare. He paid. Two weeks later he started a line of two-horse cabs (three? in number} running from the Doncaster Hotel to Kew. That service ceased after nine days trial. It was said the onlv passenger carried was Mr. Stutt. ex -M.L.A.
IRRITATING TACTICS OF LOCAL CRITICS.
Several old residents of Doncaster had the idea that the presence of the tramway blocked the possibility of a railway there. One of these who had often aired the view came to the ear one morning and tendering a half-crown asked for a ticket to town. He was given a combined Rail and Tram ticket with a shilling change. On reading the ticket lie said ‘‘First class! I want second class."" He was told there was no second class on the tram and that ticket was issued as a special concession bv the Railway Depl. Thereupon he said he would take a ticket to Box Hill, so the ticket was exchanged with a refund of nine pence. "Now." hr averred, in a tone of triumph. ‘T can go second class. Quite true it was agreed, and it was then pointed out that the tram ticket was ninepenee and the second class rail ticket would be ninepenee: together, that was the price of the tieket lie had rejected. In his astonishment he ejaculated “Mein Gott! Live and Learn." To add to his diseomforturo he was informed the exchange was a benefit to the tramway. This caused him to think furiously. to the amusement of others on the car.
20
TECHNICAL TROUBLES.
Coasting downhill from Doncaster, an insulator on tlic overhead wire came adrift as the trolley passed, throw* ing it away from the wire, the pole swung round, caught on a bracket and fractured the wooden casing, rendering it useless. Arriving at the creek all alone, the disabled pole was removed from the "trolly stick"’ and a length of fencing wire was taken a few turns on the ‘'stick.”
The rheostat was placed half way: then ‘'squatting” on top of the car the free end of wire was held against the line wire as tin* car moved up the hill. On turning the brow of the rise at Grove? Hoad the driver descended and took charge with the brake, this brought the car to the ‘'Barn” where it was docked and the Box Car was placed in commission to take up the schedule.
What a chance it would have been for a photographer to take a ''snap"’ as the car climbed the hill and label the result ''A monkev on a stick!”
CLEKGYMAjVS IIKCT1C HIDE.
On one occasion a reverend gentleman of Doncaster made request fov a return trip, to leave Box Hill at fip.m. and return from Doncaster at 10p.ni. At the appointed time the passengers arrived, forty-fix c in all. being nine move than expected, 'flic trip up was dnlv made, and at 10 p.m. the car xvas ready for the return (mention must be made that after the incident above recorded, the trolly pole was always lied down on that section from Doncaster to the creek I. With all aboard and the brake released the car moved olf down the hill, as the speed increased the brake xvas applied without appreciable effect; the trolly being held oil" the line wire there xvas no light on the car, only an oil lamp as head light. The passengers had no idea that thing? were not as they should be, and forty-five strong voices gave vent to “Hold the fort for I am coming” while the driver put all his energy into applying the brake. At a point near “Whittons Lane” there xvas about txvo hundred yards of practically level track over which the car travelled xvitli uudiiniiiished speed, then a doxvn grade to the creek. At the creek there xvas a sharp
27
curve the centre of which "a* immediately on the bridge. The writer had always regarded this with disfavour as requiring great attention: periodically the dog spikes were examined, particularly the outer and the cheek rails, and it. was only a few days previous he had taken a "heater” and packed the ballast under the sleepers giving the curve at its centre the proper "batter.--
Arriving at the bridge the car swiftly and safely negotiated the curve and took the; upgrade three hundred yards to a stop, when the trolly was put in place on the overhead wire.
It may be recorded that no accident or hurt to any person ever occurred on the tram line during its existence.
ORIGIN OF WELL-KNOWN TRADE MARK.
On many of the poles which carried the overhead wires was a sign J B— conjoined. I hese were put there by James Barnes who was for a time employed bv the contractor who erected the poles. Later this sign was to come very widely known on James Rarnes’s honey — the same James Barnes having established the company dealing in this commodity.
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