The Friends of the Tram and Federico Lacroza Public Library Association is a non-governmental association that offers free 20-minute journeys in historic trams through the streets of the porteño neighbourhood of Caballito.
The association was founded in Buenos Aires in 1976 and carries out a series of cultural and recreational activities designed to transmit the historic importance and virtues of trams to the public.
As I approached the corner where the tram begins its journey from, I noticed cartoon-style wall murals all down the street depicting the tram traversing the streets of Caballito. The information sign on the street corner where I was to embark on this historic trip was in the fileteado style.
The stained glass window shafts had decorative flowers painted upon their panels and the wooden panelled floor was robust. The lights were not the usual electric strip lighting practical for public transport, but contained in beautiful glass shades in the shape of flowers, like those painted on the glass.
A rusty old Quilmes sign was suspended from hooks in the ceiling of the coach and big brass handles hung from leather straps. I shuffled down one of the red leather benches towards the front to bag myself a good window seat.
Looking around me, the coach was populated by people of all ages and seemed to be very family-orientated.
The history of the Argentine tramway was displayed on panels all around the coach and the text complimented by black and white sketches of the tram as it developed and adapted throughout history.
The driver pulled the bell cord and with a loud ‘DING DING!’ the undercarriage started to rumble and the tram began to chug along like an old steam engine. Passers-by would point and wave as we passed them by, taking photos on their mobile phones.
Throughout the trip, souvenirs were available onboard as a man came down the carriage with calendars with photos of trams restored by the AAT as well as the association’s official publication ‘Tranvías’, a magazine focussing on the history and development of the Argentine tramway system.
The Caballito tram is certainly worthwhile, even if your interests don’t necessarily lie in the history of public transport. It is perfect for a family outing and a great way to get the kids to learn a bit of history in a fun and practical way.
Trips take place as follows: December to February: Saturdays and public holidays 5-7.30pm, Sundays 10am-1pm and 5-7.30pm. March to November: Saturdays and public holidays 4-7.30pm, Sundays 10am-1pm and 4-7.30pm. The tram leaves from the corner of Emilio Mitre and José Bonifacio.
I first visited Argentina in 1959 on the meat ship Duquesa. My last visit in the navy was in 1964. My wife & I visited the country in 2002 & we went on the tramway. Wonderful. I worked with the Tramways in Melbourne Australia 1969-76.
Is there a video/dvd of the Cabildo tramway please.