In 1926, Grand Rapids, MI held a streetcar parade to celebrate the arrival of twenty-seven brand new "modern" streetcars. Thousands lined the streets of the city's urban core for music, speeches and the introduction of the cars.
Because of their sleek and modern design, these trolley's set the standard for future streetcars in other cities around the country. It was during this era that Grand Rapids was recognized as having one of the most advanced urban transit systems in the world.
*This excerpt is used with permission from the Grand Rapids Historical Commission and the Grand Rapids Public Library. It is a clip from "The Grand Rapids Film Sampler" available on VHS.