Working Lives

This display takes you into the world of the Tramway motormen, conductors and depot staff.

Attitudes were very different then. Conductors had to address women passengers as madam and not lady. Any shortfall in the revenue collected was deducted from the conductor’s pay packet and if any of the crew failed dress inspection at the start of the shift they were sent home, as well as being docked a day’s pay.

The guide will explain how the system worked and why women were not employed by the Launceston Tramways. Two of the interesting items on display are the mittens (right) made by wives or sweathearts to help keep a motorman’s hands clean and warm when using the handbrake.