Topeka KS Trolley Coaches
Kansas Power and Light (KP&L)
Any comments? Let me know at:
New Stuff (Aug 11)
First Trolley Coach Run: March 27, 1932
Last Run: July 31, 1940
Roster
Vehicle
Number |
Builder |
Model |
Year |
Notes |
| 300-303 |
Brill Ohio |
T30 |
1931 |
Sold to Des Moines, 1940. Became 131-134 |
Topeka trolleybus fan Art Gibson writes us:
The Topeka trolleybus line's route went as follows: north on Jackson at 10th St, east on 6th St (one block), south on Kansas Ave,
west on 10th St, south on Clay St, west on Huntoon St, south on College St, and wye at 17th and College. Reverse of same route to 10th and Jackson
The 300 class trolleybuses were replaced by the 600 class (600-603) Mack buses.
All of the photos on this page were photographed by Raymond C. Hilner.
Ray started out as a motorman on the Topeka Railway Co. on May 16, 1922 and retired at Treasurer of the Topeka Transportation Co
on July 31, 1962. I am glad that Mr. Scalzo took the time to scan the photos where all can enjoy them. Ray's wife Catherine
made sure that all of the collection was taken care of, and I would ask to include a credit line for both Ray and Catherine.
My dad's best friend was Ray Hilner. Dad and Ray were aboard the LAST revenue run of the TRy's 127 on Topeka's
street car lines. Dad was the last paying passenger and Ray was riding on his TRy pass. I was taken many times on
the street cars, but I was only 13mos old and my mom says I was at home, sleeping. I was also aboard on TRy 302
on one of the runs of the trolleybuses on the last day (July 31, 1940) and I remember that ride!
I agree. We owe a great debt and much thanks for Mr and Mrs Hilner to have taken and preserved these photos, and for you, Art, to forward the backstory. Thank you. --Tom
