Historical information

This night-time photograph shows a side on view of an unnumbered W1 class tramcar covered with hundreds of light globes, including on the raised trolley pole. Much of the drop centre is blocked by a large drop sheet that is also lit and painted with flags. Numerous clusters of flags are placed along the sides of the saloons. Behind the tram is the administration office block at South Melbourne Depot. As tram drivers understand, driving such an illuminated tram that draws so much power from the overhead would not be an easy task.

The Duke and Duchess of York visited Australia in 1927 to open the new Parliament House in Canberra. They also visited Melbourne in April that year. They became the King and Queen of Australia in 1936.

Significance

Yields information about illuminated trams and a royal visit

Physical description

Black and white photograph with note at bottom and on rear.

Inscriptions & markings

Note at bottom reads: "Illuminated Tram Car"
Note on rear is a postcard with place for stamp and correspondence. In biro the message reads: "Duke of Yorks Visit 1927 For Opening of Parliament. Class W1 No. * A L Cushing, East Preston Running Shed"