These brochures and maps were compiled by historic rail expert Seth Bramson as part of his research efforts into the origins and development of Florida rail systems.
My on-hand information does not date the period when these maps were actually distributed since I am posting these as I received them, and shamelessly perhaps, that's the depth of research I can put into it. However, obviously much else may be learned by purchasing some of Seth's books.
Much kudos goes to TR regular Henry Gerdes who actually arranged for my reception of these and also scanned and sent them along following our chance meeting in Ybor City some months ago. I subsequently contacted Mr. Bramson and he permissioned TR to honorly present them.
Make Sure these Display as Intended
The images presented immediately below are smaller than their actual full-sized counterparts. However, beneath each image is a link to the full-sized version. When viewed full-size each image should take up your entire browser window. If this doesn't happen, your browser may be set to reduce the overall image size so that it fits on your screen. Each browser has a way to change that setting on the fly. In Firefox, just click on the image (a magnifying glass will appear, just click). In Microsoft Internet Explorer, a square icon will appear on the lower-right of the image, when clicked there, to provide image options. I mention this because it is important to experience these images in their full size. Enjoy!
[ Click for full-sized image ] - This is a straightforward introduction to the rest of the brochure and map. Text urges "Carry With You For Reference". If you needed more information you could always contact the "information booth" on Lafayette Street. The booth's phone number was 3012. Hm, why didn't they just provide a URL?
[ Click for full-sized image ] - In this section, covering Northeast Tampa, text specifies "rush hours" of streetcar usage and duly "requests" that "shoppers" avoid those periods. Wow! Can you imagine a transit authority ever being able to publish such a thing in today's hyper market-oriented society? Retailers would probably sue.
[ Click for full-sized image ] - This map appears to cover most of central Tampa. Note that the line does not in any way shape or form mimic today's Teco Line Streetcar route from Ybor City to Channelside. You'll see no route there. The system roles were different then, and obviously, the geography and avenues of development were, too. The line did, however, appear to connect to Tampa Union Station.
[ Click for full-sized image ] - This is a captivating detail on operational routes and policies. Note that fares for students were "2 and a half cents". That explains all the young whippersnappers placing coins on streetcar tracks. One would have thought it was just to watch streetcars flatten them but apparently it was an effort to split a third penny in half. Oh, okay.
[ Click for full-sized image ] - Its simplicity and mimicking of modern brochure-style PR makes this one of the most engaging pieces in this collection. Tampa streetcar lines ran 53 miles and were obviously a central asset to human mobility. There's an important distinction today's streetcar folks are adamant about. Tracks are tracks, streetcars are streetcars. But trolleys are represented by the apparatus that connects them to overhead wire. So, not only are there 53 miles of trackage, there are 53 miles of overhead trolley.
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