How did the motorman make the car go? We know that electric power, received through the trolley pole or other pick-up arrangements was transmitted to the motors. On direct current motors, the speed of the car is a function of how much of that power reaches the motors.

The standard arrangement of power control, for many years, was twofold. First, all cars had two motors – or four motors functioning in pairs. The motors – or pairs of motors – could be connected in series, so that power ran through two motors in sequence, giving each motor half of the total power. Alternatively, the motors could be connected in parallel, so that each motor received full power. Second, variable amounts of resistance could be placed in the circuit, determining how much of the power reached the motors. The circuit was switched mechanically, causing the power to pass through more or fewer resistors. Both of these mechanical switching operations were done using the controller.

The types of controller that were standard for the first half century of electric operation amounted to a dial which the motorman could set. In the initial position, shown in picture 1, the power was shut off. When the controller was moved to the first position, or “notch,” picture 2, power was fed to motors in series and through maximum resistance, providing slow speed. As the controller was advanced, notch by notch, resistance was removed and speed increased. Picture 3 shows the controller with all resistance removed, with motors connected in series. At the next notch, the motors were connected in parallel and full resistance returned. Once again, the controller was advanced, notch by notch, until all motors were receiving full power, without resistance, Picture 4.

The lever visible at the left of the controller is the removable “key.” In this case, angled forward, the car will move forward. With the lever angled backwards the car would run in reverse, When the lever set in the middle, the controller is mechanically locked in the “off” position, Picture 5.

Pictures show a Westinghouse type HL controller, a fairly common pattern, which was managed in essentially the same way as most others, including the very common type K.

Electric railways were the heartbeat of Northeast Ohio. We’ve brought that heritage home to Seville, where you can walk through a century of transit evolution. Don’t just read about the old electric trains, come experience them. View our Historic Trolley Ride Schedule and plan your next adventure.