Going My Way
This photo taken by E.E. Bandy at the corner of Brinton & Fifth recalls the early days of the Trafford transportation legacy, which started in 1941, thanks to the visionary duo Joseph Schneider and Michael Bretsnyder. Their pioneering bus service quickly caught the attention of the influential Dent brothers, John and Joseph, who saw the potential and took the reins just a year later. Notably, John Dent was a savvy investor and a distinguished member of the Pennsylvania State Senate, adding a touch of political prestige to the venture.
In 1948, the Dents joined forces with the astute Harry Marketel, rebranding the promising enterprise as the Trafford Motor Coach Lines. This partnership propelled the service to new heights, becoming a beloved staple of local transit. The slogan “Going My Way” was cleverly branded into the service to evoke a sense of personal journey and companionship with its riders.
However, all good things come to an end, and in 1964, the Trafford line, a symbol of local pride and progress, found its new home under the auspices of the Allegheny County Port Authority. The legacy of those early days of the Trafford bus service lives on, a testament to the spirit of innovation and community that drove its founders.
Christmas Tree Inter-works Railway
A bit of color was added to highlight this Christmas tree that once stood on a wooden platform at the site of the former Trafford Westinghouse Foundry. The building in the background was the superintendent's office for the Westinghouse Inter-Works Railway. A banister covered with garland surrounds the wooden platform, and interestingly enough, a piano was brought on site for this occasion (no date recorded). While we don't know what was said that day, or the songs recited, there is one song that does come to mind this time of year, the Scottish folk song "Auld Lang Syne."
"Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind? For auld lang syne, my dear, for auld lang syne, we'll take a cup of kindness yet, for auld lang syne."
The first sentence is a rhetorical question, and the phrase "auld lang syne" essentially translated to "the olden days." The Trafford Historical Society works to preserve the history of our olden days, and honor the people from our past. We wish to thank our volunteers, donors, and followers who have contributed to the organization over the past year. **Raising a virtual glass** A toast to kindness and community. May you have a happy and healthy New Year. Cheers!
Transportation
Subway under the Pennsylvania Railroad to “South Trafford” This postcard is not dated, but it shows some buildings that are no longer around. For example, to the left of the road, on the hill sits the former residence of Dr Samuel Stewart. The home was razed when the railroad was widened. Also to the left is a picture of the Miller Company General Store and the post office. Notice the man sanding next to the horse and buggy.
