Riding the Narrow Gauge in Metro Boston

The Boston, Revere Beach & Lynn Railroad was a narrow gauge short line that operated between Boston at Rowe's Wharf, via ferry to East Boston across the harbor, and connecting Revere Beach, Winthrop, and Lynn. Opened in 1875, the line carried a great number of commuters using Mason Bogie locos. In 1928, the passenger cars were converted to electric motor units, eliminating steam from the line altogether. The railroad ceased operations in 1940, but some of the cars were purchased by the East Broad Top Railroad in Pennsylvania and still run today. In this view circa 1910, we see a train pulling into Winthrop Beach.

Here is a view from the same period showing the station at Revere Beach.



This final view shows what the cars looked like after being fitted out for electric service and 'under the wire' circa 1930s. Notice the pole, retractor, and lights. Those look like MU connectors up on the roof, too.  

 

For more information on the BRB&L RR, click here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boston,_Revere_Beach_and_Lynn_Railroad

For a look at what the surviving coaches look like on the East Broad Top today, click here:
 
http://www.ebtrr.com/equip/passcars.html