Modern Transit

Image Number Neg Z9. 1864.pp30, Hughes Studio Photography Collection,

Courtesy of the Prints and Photographs Division, Maryland Historical Society

The street car was in a sense an end to an era in public transportation. As the city modernized, the streetcar could not sustain as the main mode of transit. The streetcar was surpassed by the automobile and more important the bus. By 1945, Baltimore officially began to switch over to buses. Buses were able to reach areas streetcars could not. Not only was transit modernizing but Baltimore infrastructure as well. If we compare this picture to the first of this theme, it is clear how much the roads transformed and expanded perhaps to accommodate all forms of transportation. During the war, it was clear that public transit is a necessity during times of strain. For those who live in the suburbs today, we may not think about transit but for city dwellers the metro, train, and buses are essential for their commutes. While the design of these vehicles may change, public transit will always be important to Baltimore.