San Francisco attracts tourists from around the world with its sourdough bread, famous bridges, and interesting mix of architectural styles. Their antique method of public transportation as well delights tourists as they navigate the city.

It was on this day, December 28th, in 1912 that the first municipally owned streetcars became operational in San Francisco. These streetcars became an iconic part of the city.

The first cable car was patented by a San Francisco native, Andrew Smith Hallidie, in 1871. The cars were pulled by his patented cable, which ran between the rail tracks. Two years later, in 1873, Hallidie finished building his first rail track, and the car took its first trip down one of San Francisco’s historic hills.