Historical information

The photograph shows the demolition or removal of the cable tram track at the intersection of Smith St Gertrude St. Fitzroy. The workmen are excavating the former cable tram track The inbound cable tram track remains in position. The 1955 Annual Report notes that work commenced following the completion of the Queen's visit in March 1954 and that all work was done by day-labour. The track was opened to service in late June 1955.

The second image is from a Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works plan (part) No. 1217 - Collingwood for the intersection, obtained for reference from the State Library of Victoria Collection of MMBW Plans. It shows the layout of the cables and the large sheave pit that the cable itself passed around. The trams were required to drop the cable from the grip prior to the entry to the curve and then coast around.

Photographer is possibly Keith Kings.

Significance

Yields information about the extent of work need to convert the former Northcote Cable tram route to Electric trams, the people and the methods used to undertake the work.

Physical description

Photograph - Black and White of the demolition of the cable tram track at the corner of Queens Parade - Smith St Clifton Hill.