Kilowatts instead of horsepower – The bridge as a transport axis
In May 1895, twelve trams started rumbling along from Central Station, now known as SBB Station, across the Middle Bridge to the old Badischer Station. This also marked the end of horse-drawn omnibuses. The electric trams were built and delivered by Siemens & Halske in Berlin. Basel thus became the first city in Switzerland to have its own state-run modern tram system. Each tram was equipped with an open platform at the front and rear. This meant that the driver was constantly exposed to the wind and weather. Passengers were accompanied by a conductor with a shoulder bag, who collected fares on the spot. A full journey cost 20 centimes, while a half journey cost 10. The ride across the Middle Bridge soon became a panoramic route, adorning countless postcards.
Bildquelle: Staatsarchiv Basel-Stadt, Fotoarchiv Wolf, NEG A 1509