Chicago Elevated (CTA) 4439
The Chicago Rapid Transit 4000-series cars have interesting interiors with old-time light fixtures, walkover velour seats and "bowling alley" seating at the ends. They help demonstrate both the interiors typical of the height of the interurban era, and the exterior of the coming state-of-the-art steel cars. Being high-level-loading cars, they have no steps and must load at either of the railroad’s two high-level platforms or at a special stairset. They feature early automatic acceleration technology, with controller points for switching, series, parallel, and field shunt, without the resistance points of the older cars, a precursor of the PCC control scheme to come in the Thirties.
Former Chicago Elevated Lines 4439 is a heavy rapid transit car built by Cincinnati Car Company in 1924. The introduction of this car to regular passenger service is eagerly awaited. It will serve as a third 4000 series car in our fleet and provide a spare when two are running in special event service. The extensive use of wood in the interiors of these cars make for a vintage feel, much like the interurbans of its era. Additionally, with their relatively high weight (38 tons) they ride well out on the open line. Their large windows and airy vestibules offer a pleasant experience for patrons getting their first taste of vintage electrics.
We look forward to completing restoration on this car - estimated during the year 2021.
Former Chicago Elevated Lines 4439 is a heavy rapid transit car built by Cincinnati Car Company in 1924. The introduction of this car to regular passenger service is eagerly awaited. It will serve as a third 4000 series car in our fleet and provide a spare when two are running in special event service. The extensive use of wood in the interiors of these cars make for a vintage feel, much like the interurbans of its era. Additionally, with their relatively high weight (38 tons) they ride well out on the open line. Their large windows and airy vestibules offer a pleasant experience for patrons getting their first taste of vintage electrics.
We look forward to completing restoration on this car - estimated during the year 2021.