The Trolley Supply Co. Ideal Trolley Catcher

01

Artifact Overview

Most electric streetcars took their power from an overhead wire. A trolley wheel, at the end of a roof-mounted pole, contacted the wire and collected electric current. If the wheel disengaged from the wire, the spring-loaded pole could damage the power line. A trolley catcher prevented the pole from snapping up too far, reducing the risk of damage.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Apparatus

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

2017.0.34.1513

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Cast iron

Color

Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 6.5 in
Diameter: 8 in

Inscriptions

on front: THE TROLLEY SUPPLY CO. / IDEAL CATCHER / PATENT APL'D FOR / CANTON, OHIO, U.S.A.
The Trolley Supply Co. Ideal Trolley Catcher