Name/Title
Greenville's First Street Railway SystemEntry/Object ID
RG134-01-02Description
Greenville’s first street railway system, established in 1873 by Thomas Claghorn Gower, was a mule-drawn line connecting freight and passenger depots with the business district. It featured passenger and freight cars, a warehouse, and community facilities. The system supported local commerce and rail development until railroads merged and services centralized. Unable to afford electrification, the line ceased in 1897. Its legacy included figures like the mule "Lightning" and beloved driver Billy Fronaberger. The transition to electric streetcars began in 1898 under new ownership. This period marked Greenville’s shift from muddy streets to organized urban infrastructure and transportation.Collection
Proceedings and PapersCopyright
Copyright Holder
Greenville Country Historical SocietyCopyright Details
Exclusive License
