1881 restored horse drawn tram goes on display
On Wednesday 13 July an innovative new form of urban passenger transport will be on show in Oxfordshire. In 1881, the horse drawn tram was the latest thing in modern passenger travel and just the ticket for solving Oxford's traffic and travel problems. It was also a masterpiece of British craftsmanship and in many ways also a work of art.
Horse drawn trams have long since vanished from Oxford's streets but one has been rescued and after years of devoted work by highly skilled volunteers will be the star attraction this summer at the Oxford Bus Museum.
The new exhibit will be formally unveiled by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, John Harwood, at 2.15 pm on Wednesday 13 July. John Harwood said ,
"The Oxford Bus Museum is a little known gem. It preserves all sorts of old and not so old buses and coaches. And it gives a fascinating insight into how public transport has changed over the years.
"This tram has been restored over the last five years with loving attention to its period details - rather longer than it took to build in the first place. And even more impressive is that it has all been done by a dedicated team of volunteers. They deserve huge congratulations for their skill and perseverance.
"While it sadly won't be able to ply its trade on the streets of Oxford it does give a glimpse of a time when public transport was slower - but rather more elegant. Do come and have a look."
FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT TRAMS:
The Museum publishes a factsheet on the history of Oxford's horse tramways with a map of where the tramlines were laid and the various proposals to expand the system. A copy can be sent to you if you are interested in writing an article.
NOTES FOR EDITORS:
The Oxford Bus Museum tells the story of bus and coach travel around Oxfordshire over the last 130 years and contains 30 vintages buses and coaches, the earliest dating from 1913, There is also a collection of artefacts (bus stops, ticket machines, timetables, posters, staff uniforms) and lots of fantastic photos illustrating our diverse public transport history.
Since 2004 we've also been home to the Morris Motors Museum, which charts the story of how these classic British cars and commercial vehicles were produced at Cowley, Oxford. Our impressive collection of vintage Morris vehicles represents those produced during William Morris's life.
We also have a unique collection of 40 vintage bicycles. It wouldn't be Oxford without bikes!
The museum is a charity and run entirely by volunteers. There is free parking and a café. The museum is located at the Rail Station Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire OX29 8LA. The Museum is a charity and run entirely by volunteers.
PRESS CONTACTS:
Christopher Butterfield 01296 337622 & Frank Collingwood 01993 811003
Old Station Yard, Main Road, Long Hanborough, Near Witney, Oxon OX29 8LA
OTHER INFORMATION:
Company No. 4228899 Charity No. 1088389 Museum Registration No. 1667
Web site: http:/www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk