What is Southampton 45?
Q: What is Southampton 45?
A: Southampton 45 is an open-top tramcar that was built in 1903 by Hurst Nelson.
Q: Was the tramcar modified after it was built?
A: Yes, the tramcar was originally built with a three window saloon, but was later rebuilt by Southampton Corporation Tramways with a four window one.
Q: Why does Southampton 45 look out of proportion?
A: Southampton 45 looks out of proportion because it had to pass through the very low Bathgate Arch in the centre of Southampton. A normal sized tram would not have been able to have passed underneath the arch.
Q: How long did Southampton 45 operate for?
A: Southampton 45 operated from 1903 until the Southampton system closed in 1949.
Q: How was Southampton 45 preserved?
A: At an enthusiasts' tour of the system, the Museum Committee of the Light Railway Transport League bought the tram for £10, which included a refurbished truck and a full repaint. This act began the entire preservation movement of British tramways.
Q: Where is Southampton 45 currently located?
A: Southampton 45 is currently located in Crich Tramway Village and is in regular use during the summer months. It is the museum's only operational open-top tramcar.
Q: What was the significance of Southampton 45's purchase for the preservation movement of British tramways?
A: The purchase of Southampton 45 by the Museum Committee of the Light Railway Transport League for preservation began the entire preservation movement of British tramways.
