Click on the photo to enlarge
RichmondSFBlog reader Rob sent me this pic yesterday of the B Geary streetcar that used to run in the Richmond District. According to outsidelands.org, service for the B Geary began in December, 1912.
The B-line started as a shuttle service for the MUNI’s A-line cars, extending service west on Geary from 10th Avenue (where the A cars terminated) out to 33rd Avenue. Eventually the B-line became the primary route on Geary, reaching east to the Ferry Building and west to the ocean. The A-line ended in 1932, leaving the B as the Geary Street workhorse.
The B Geary was replaced in December, 1956 with the 38 Geary motorcoach. Read more about the Richmond District streetcar lines at outsidelands.org.
I had forgotten all about Zim’s until I saw this photo! And doesn’t the Alexandria look so nice?
Sarah B.
Bring back those streetcars!
What a heartbreaking picture. “Things do not get better, but worse” — Edward Gorey
Beautiful photo!
And yeah, I’d love to have streetcars in the neighborhood again…
I think I see the Sears way in the background. I was just a toddler back then, carefree as they come, not a thing to worry about. I remember the streetcars like yesterday, especially the smell of ozone from the motor and the fare tokens. If I had a time machine, I just may not ever be back to today.
Oh by the way perhaps two or three years ago, they repaved Balboa and they uncovered some streetcar tracks, it was a fascinating trip back in time.
I think Balboa would be a better alternative than Geary to restore streetcar service.
@James Isn’t the grade at 23rd Avenue too steep for Muni metro?
In the photo I saw some sort of ornate object on the top of the alexandria’s, I wonder what happened to it.
Are there any advantages of a streetcars compared to buses, besides aesthetics?
The Alexandria may have old bones and wear and tear, but it’s worn sign still beckons to me from across the street. And, when I walk within it’s entrance, the mosaic, albeit broken in some areas, dances a lovely history. I truly hope that this theater will be allowed to come out of its mothballs and embrace patrons that answer the beckon of its Art Deco welcome.
How nice to see that stretch without the Ross/Blockbuster monstrosity.
What a great photo!
What’s playing at the Alexandria? The Bad Seed, and Tea and Sympathy starring Deborah Kerr. When is showtime? Anybody up for Zim’s afterwards?