A little History

In the late 1800’s electric motor technology was born. What seemed like a great solution to the problem of slow horse powered carts, was the electric trolley. The first Electric Trolley Car was established in Richmond Virginia in1887. The trolley was THE way to travel. It allowed people to get to places they had never been before. During World War II trolleys became especially popular due to the rationing of consumables.

As the years went on, trolleys developed into larger and more luxurious objects. Cars and buses were becoming more popular due to their speed as compared to the electric trolley. Then, after World War II ended, gasoline and tires were no longer rationed so consumers could purchase them. By the 1920’s automobiles were so readily available, the rail trolley became virtually non existent. The trackless trolley that had been invented to compete with buses and cars in hopes to stay alive, faded away as well. Years later the trend of the trackless trolley emerged again, bringing back the history and nostalgia of the good ole days. Today trackless trolleys can be found in many cities across the United States, adding an old fashioned tradition to our increasingly modern landscape.

All Aboard Trolley Co. was the idea of Jim Gamage over 5 years ago. Jim researched trolley operations on the east coast and tailored the operation for Maine and the Midcoast area. Jim wanted to bring some of that old fashioned heritage to Rockland. Trolleys have been synonymous with Rockland for 100 years and the timing of this venture coincided with Rockland’s downtown renovation.  Jim purchased 2 trolleys in early spring and began operation in May of 2004.  He looks to add a trolley to his growing operation in the next year or so.  All Aboard Trolley began offering an alternative way of travel in and around Rockland Maine, including surrounding towns, for sight seeing, weddings, and other special events. We hope you get a chance to ride the trolley!