Plymouth Corporation Tramways
Owner Plymouth Corporation
Took over 28th September 1892 (Plymouth, Devonport and District Tramways [horse, steam])
Operator Plymouth Corporation
First electric route 22nd September 1899
Took over 20th October 1915 (Devonport and District Tramways [electric]), a subsidiary of the British Electric Traction Company Limited, following absorption of Devonport into Plymouth Corporation
Took over 1st July 1922 (Plymouth, Stonehouse and Devonport Tramways [electric]), a Provincial Tramways Company
Closed 29th September 1945
Length 17.57 miles
Gauge 3ft 6ins
Button description Title ('Plymouth Corporation Tramways') in circlet, surrounding arms (shield with saltire and four towers, surmounted by a crown with four flags/pennants) supported by lions, all above a boat and waves
Materials known Brass
Button Line reference [None]
Comments The arms themselves are quite old (early 17th Century), however the rest of the device is less clear. The crest and supporters differ markedly from those granted to Plymouth in 1931, the latter reflecting the absorption of Devonport and East Stonehouse (in 1915) and elevation to city status (in 1928). Although the supporters on the button are similar to those officially granted (in 1931), they are actually the earlier 'unofficial' version. All this indicates that the above button was issued prior to 1931. It is however unknown whether the corporation ever issued a new button to reflect the changes, though one might have expected this given the civic pride of the period.