SOUTHAMPTON CORPORATION TRAMWAYS BADGE CIRCA 1900-1910

An interesting piece of memorabillia from Southampton Corporation Tramways which were in operation in the city from 1879 until 1949. The trams were originally drawn by horses. Southampton Corporation took over the running of the tramway from Southampton Tramways company in 1898. In the later period of service electric double decker trams were used, rounded at the top especially to fit under Southampton bargate.

The cap badge has wear and is maker mark stamped on the reverse which shows it dates from the 1900's -1910. The front shows the city shield of Southampton.

An example of one of the trams can be seen at the National Tramways museum. One of the trams used was discovered being used as a summer house and has been restored. During the first world war the conductors were women and bands played on the top cars during soldier recruitment drives.  During World war two women drivers operated the trams which were painted grey and stored early evening on the common to avoid the bombings.