B-151 is a history of Atlantic City Trolleys from 1854 to 1955, written by James J.N. Henwood, who recounts the story of trolley operation in Atlantic City, from humble horse cars to the modern Brilliners.
Originally conceived of as a seaside shipping port, Atlantic City’s
developers realized its potential for summer visitors seeking an escape
from crowded cities to the inviting beaches of the Jersey Shore. Resorts
and other businesses burgeoned, helped by the crowds brought to the
city over three railroads.
Local transportation began with a simple horsecar service as well as a
steam dummy operation. It was traction Pioneer Frank J. Sprague who
electrified the city railway in 1889. Under the control of the
Pennsylvania Railroad, lines were ultimately consolidated into the
Atlantic City & Shore Railroad. Over the years AC&S operated the
local Atlantic City trolley service and a short interurban—the Shore
Fast Line-between Atlantic City and Ocean City. There was also another
electric line in the area, the Atlantic City & Suburban, that led a
troubled existence and suffered an early demise.
Come on board and ride back with us in time to relive Atlantic City’s colorful trolley era.
