Sunday Times (Perth, WA : 1902 - 1954), Sunday 9 November 1952, page 24


HISTORIC LINK

Mayor Drives

Last Tram

Mayor of Fremantle W. F. Samson drove

Fremantle's last tram into the High-st carbarn

just before midnight. Tram was driven from East Fremantle terminus and handed over to Mr. Samson at Edward-st.

It was greeted at the Town Hall by 200 people.

When, it arrived at its final destination a spirit of sadness enveloped those who had remained out of their beds to witness the finish of a transport sys-tem, which, only a few decades ago, was consider-ed to be practically the

last word.

Tram crew consisted of driver D. J. Hainbley, of East Fremantle, and con-ductor Don Wilkes, of Hil-ton Park.

Mr. Samson in driving the tram completed an historic link between this and Fremantle's first tram.

First tram was driven through the city by Mr. Samson's mother, Mrs. M. Samson-then Mayoress of Fremantle - on Oct. 31. 1905.

Last night's ceremony was preceded by a meeting of Fremantle Municipal Tramways Board to com-memorate a gathering in 1905.

That year Fremantle and North Fremantle councils met to form the Tramways Board.

Buses will replace trams on all routes today.

Tramways manager C. W. Jerrat said yesterday that the disused trams will be put up for sale by tender in the near future.

He said a number of church organisations would probably seek them for Sunday schools and churches, in the outback.

Tramways Social Club may also make one or more into camping huts.