115 years ago today (26 August) public transport began in Aberdeen with the introduction of horse drawn trams. Local bus operator, First Aberdeen, who’s routes can be traced back to the days of Aberdeen Corporation Tramways in 1898, celebrated the anniversary today with staff dressing up as characters from the 1890s, including Sherlock Holmes and Queen Victoria and by showcasing some of its oldest vehicles.
First Aberdeen had three buses on display this morning at its headquarters in Aberdeen: A brand new single decker, and on loan from the FirstGroup Heritage Trust (a body set up by the company to preserve and maintain vintage vehicles) a 1970s Daimler and a 1930s Albion bus. And in order to give a better flavour of how transport has changed over the last 115 years, on loan from the Grampian Transport Museum at Alford, First also had a penny farthing bicycle on display.
The 1970s Daimler will spend some time this afternoon picking up passengers on Union Street free of charge – customers will instead have the option of making a donation to the Archie Foundation. In addition members of staff in their 1890s costumes will be handing out free bus travel vouchers to customers on Union Street.
First Aberdeen Director, Joe Mackie, is the company’s longest serving employee and is this year celebrating 50 years working for First Aberdeen and the companies preceding it. “It is remarkable to see how public transport has developed over the years,” said Joe. “Nowadays our brand new buses are fitted with complementary wi-fi, leather seats, are very easy to drive and smooth for the passenger – each new bus costs around £150k. In contrast the Albion cost £1,212 in 1930, is challenging to drive and is quite uncomfortable - you can distinctly feel every bump in the road.
“It’s important to remember and commemorate your history – I’m sure our customers will enjoy being transported around the city by Sherlock Holmes today!”
115 years of public transport by First, and the companies that preceded it – Timeline:
1898: Aberdeen Corporation Tramways is formed as horse drawn tramways were introduced in Aberdeen
1920: The first motorised buses were introduced in Aberdeen
1958: Aberdeen transport department ceased the operation of trams and instead relied wholly on buses. Trams were burned in public at the beach.
1989: A Management Buy Out meant that for the first time buses in Aberdeen were operated by the private sector.