Blackpool 1925 “Gondola” Illuminated Car
After the first world war it was some time before the resumption of the famous Blackpool Illuminations. Finally in 1925 they were re-introduced, and one of the attractions was this illuminated tram in the shape of a Venetian gondola, which had been built on the remains of Marton Box car No.28. Initially the crew had to dress up as Venetian gondoliers (much to the amusement of the other crews!) and the car carried a band which played selections from Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Gondoliers”.
The Gondola was so successful that another Marton Box car was converted the following season, this time to resemble a lifeboat. Since the donor cars were only four wheelers, the resulting overhang at either end caused these two cars to roll and sway quite realistically (and sometimes alarmingly!) as they progressed along the promenade.
The gondola was withdrawn in 1962. The body and underframe were scrapped, but the truck was used for the restoration of Derby tram No.1. which can be seen at the National Tramway Museum at Crich, Derbyshire.