A former Chicago Surface Lines electric streetcar operating during the early years of the Chicago Transit Authority. Chicago Illinois circa 1950's era.

 

I found this vintage color photograph of a Chicago streetcar in

service during the early years of the Chicago Transit Authority,

on the internet today.

 

The Chicago Transit Authority was formed in 1945, but did not

begin operations until November 1st, 1947. Inheriting several

old pieces of transit equipment from the former Chicago Surface

Lines Company, and rapid transit antiquities from the former

Chicago Rapid Transit Company, it was definitely time to update

and modernize Chicago's old public transportation infrastructure

and equipment. Some equipment like former Chicago Surface lines

Pulman Standard Car Company built electric streetcar # 566 seen

here dating to 1908, were worn out mechanically and expensive

to operate and maintain. The CTA replaced electric streetcars with

cost effective motor buses during the 1950's.

 

The large green circular logo on the side of car # 566, indicates

that it is the early 1950's, and this car is working it's final years

in Chicago Transit Authority service.