The cars approach each other at the middle. Photo/Dolinski
The Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been hauling people and freight up Mount Washington, formerly known as Coal Hill, since 1877. The original funicular railway cars from 1877 which are still operating provide transportation for residents and tourists to get to the top of the hill to see the fabulous view of the beautiful city, and to get to the restaurants which line up on the top of the hill.
Most tourists just want to ride in the beautifully restored cars that have original hand-carved cherry panels trimmed with oak and maple, and some of the original amber glass.
Each car can carry twenty-five people per trip at approximately 320 feet per minute. The total length is 793 feet, the grade is 58.5 per cent or 30.5 degrees, and the total rise is 400 feet. The cars operate in pairs, providing a counter balance for each other.
A platform has been added at the top for the public to view the historic equipment, motor, and cables, and to see the exhibits telling the history of the incline and the city.
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The view from the top of the hill is fabulous. Photo/Dolinski
When the Duquesne Incline was built, it was one of four operating in the city of Pittsburgh, which at various times has had up to nineteen inclines operating. The tour guide now boasts that they still have more inclines than in any other city, but it just takes two to win the record. The nearby Monongahela Incline, the oldest and steepest in the U.S., which is the other one which still operates in the city, was the first to be completed in 1870. Nicknamed “The Mon,” it is operated by the local transit company.
The Duquesne Incline, which is open every day of the year including holidays, charges adults just $2.00, and takes senior citizens free. Since 1964 it has been operated by the on-profit Society for the Preservation of the Duquesne Heights Incline which relies on the fares collected, membership fees, donations and gift shop sales.
Whichever incline you decide to take, it is a must see and do. From the top of the hill it is easy to see why the residents of Pittsburgh are so proud of their beautiful city.
Comments
Wonderful story. We also have a historic train in Wilmington. I love to ride during the fall and at the holidays. Kim Riccio - Delaware Historical Destination Travel
Thanks for the comments Kim. I'll check for stories from you on the train in Wilmington, as I'm within driving distance of that and love trains.
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