Berlin 2008
By STTS
In 2008, members of the Scottish Tramway and Transport Society embarked on a fascinating expedition to explore the rich tramway heritage of Germany, visiting both Berlin and the historic city of Potsdam. The trip offered a unique opportunity to experience both operational modern tramways and preserved historic vehicles, showcasing the evolution of German public transport.
Strausberg Railway – A Living Museum
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the Strausberg Railway (Strausberger Eisenbahn), where the group encountered a beautifully preserved cream and dark green liveried historic tram. The depot visit was particularly memorable, with members gaining access to the depot facilities and even getting the chance to explore the driving cab of one of these vintage vehicles. The attention to detail in the restoration and maintenance of these historic trams was evident, with the vehicles maintained in excellent condition.
The group assembled for a memorable photograph alongside one of the Strausberger Eisenbahn trams, which still advertised an “Advents-Shuttle” shopping service – a reminder of how these heritage vehicles continue to serve the local community. The depot’s infrastructure, with its traditional overhead wiring and track layouts, provided a glimpse into tramway operations from a bygone era.
Potsdam’s Tramway System
The journey also took the group to Potsdam, where they experienced the city’s modern tram network. Potsdam’s transport system impressed with its blend of historic charm and contemporary efficiency. The group was photographed passing through one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Nauener Tor (Nauen Gate), a stunning neo-Gothic gatehouse with twin towers and crenellated walls. Watching a modern tram glide through this historic gateway perfectly captured the harmonious coexistence of old and new in German cities.
The modern trams in Potsdam, operated by ViP (Verkehrsbetrieb Potsdam GmbH), showcased the latest in low-floor tram technology, providing a stark contrast to the heritage vehicles seen earlier in the trip. Members took the opportunity to ride the network and experience the comfortable, accessible modern rolling stock.
Berlin’s Extensive Network
In Berlin itself, the group explored the city’s vast public transport infrastructure. The capital’s tram network remains one of the most extensive in Germany, and the visit included time spent at modern tram stops waiting for services. The iconic Berlin TV Tower (Fernsehturm) provided a distinctive backdrop to the tramway scenes, a reminder of the city’s unique history and character.
Throughout the trip, the group took advantage of Berlin’s excellent public transport system, with members photographed resting at tram stops between excursions, consulting maps and planning their next destinations.
Behind the Scenes – Depot Visits
A particular treat for the transport enthusiasts was access to depot facilities where historic vehicles are preserved. The group viewed an impressive collection of vintage buses, including cream and beige liveried double-decker buses that represented various eras of German bus operation. These vehicles, some bearing registration numbers and route indicators from their operational days, stood as testament to the importance of preserving transport heritage.
One of the historic Berlin trams on display, numbered A180 and painted in traditional dark green livery, represented the city’s pre-war tramway history. Another preserved vehicle, numbered 1707 in cream livery, showed the post-war evolution of Berlin’s tram fleet. The depot environment, with its industrial architecture and workshop facilities still intact, added authenticity to the heritage experience.
A Trip to Remember
The 2008 Berlin and Potsdam trip provided STTS members with an excellent opportunity to study German tramway operations, from historic preserved vehicles to modern light rail systems. The combination of depot visits, heritage rides, and exploration of operational networks gave participants a comprehensive overview of German public transport past and present.
The warm summer weather visible in the photographs added to the enjoyment of the trip, making it ideal for both riding trams and exploring these historic German cities on foot. For the Scottish visitors, it was a chance to see how other countries value and preserve their transport heritage while continuing to invest in modern, efficient public transport systems.
Images from the Scottish Tramway and Transport Society archive, 2008
