Presidents’ Conference Committee Trolley Car, Pittsburgh

Step back in time and capture the charm of Pittsburgh’s streets in the 1960s and 1970s with this collectible railroad postcard featuring PAT car #1706. Painted in its classic red, white, and orange scheme, this streamlined PCC streetcar glides along the 37 Shannon route, carrying passengers past the everyday sights of mid-20th-century urban life. A nostalgic glimpse at city transit, this postcard is perfect for collectors, transit enthusiasts, or anyone who loves the elegance and history of America’s streetcar era.

The trolley is a PCC (Presidents’ Conference Committee) car, a revolutionary all-electric design first built in the 1930s to modernize streetcar fleets across the country. PAT #1706, part of the 1700-series built by the St. Louis Car Company, served the Pittsburgh area during the 1960s and 1970s, including the long Charleroi and Washington interurban lines. Its destination sign reads “37 SHANNON,” indicating it was heading toward Castle Shannon, Pennsylvania.

In the background, a local hardware store reflects the commercial districts typical of the era, adding context and atmosphere to the scene. The 1700-series PCC cars were known for their standee windows, overhead fans, and streamlined design, making them a familiar and beloved sight on Pittsburgh streets. Regular PCC service in the city continued until September 1999, giving these trolleys a long and storied presence in the community.

This collectible railroad postcard preserves the charm and character of mid-century streetcar travel and would display beautifully framed or make a memorable addition to any trolley, streetcar, or Pennsylvania transit collection.

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