In November 1940, a special tram line marked with the Jewish symbol of the Star of David began operating exclusively for Jewish residents after the ghetto was sealed.
Two of the city’s oldest trams were used to run the line within the segregated part of the city, serving for almost half a million people.
The line ran from north to south of the ghetto and made its last journey in July 1942, during the mass deportations of residents to extermination camps.
Now, in cooperation with the local authorities, the publicly owned Warsaw Trams company decided to restore the historic tram, using the same materials that were used over 100 years ago when streetcars of this type were built.
The tram underwent extensive renovation work, including the removal of corrosion, painting, carpentry and the installation of sheet metal sides painted in red.
Additionally, decorative patterns and the symbol of Warsaw, a mermaid, were added to the tram’s exterior.
Warsaw Trams now planning to further enhance the interior of the vehicle and, once it is completed, the restored tram will become a unique attraction on a global scale.
Unfortunately, there are no plans to put the historic tram back on the streets of Warsaw, as it will not be operational.
However, it might soon be possible for everyone to see the vehicle, as it is to become a permanent exhibit at the Warsaw Ghetto Museum.
(pjm)
Source: Warszawa Nasze Miasto
