Steam trams and tram engines

[Rescars]

Comments in the long distance shunter thread about GER tram engines on the main line prompt a question. Does anyone know when and where steam trams were last used for revenue-earning passenger traffic in the UK? Most steam tram systems were converted to electricity at some stage, though the Wolverton and Stony Stratford was never upgraded by the LNWR/LMS. Tram engines appear to have lasted rather longer on freight workings of course - between Wisbech and Upwell for instance.

Oh, before anyone starts, Toby's escapades on the Isle of Sodor don't count!

 

[Sir Felix Pole]

I believe Rawtenstall Corporation was the last to operate steam trams in 1909 when it fully converted to electric traction. It had taken over the privately owned Rossendale system the year before. There were of course other 'tramways' but they were really light railways with conventional locos such as the Wantage and the Rye and Camber. The Swansea and Mumbles (always a Railway!) converted to electric traction in 1929.

Not in the U.K., but a late survivor was the Dublin and Blessington in Ireland which closed at the end of 1932.