In 1956, Muni crafts workers beautifully restored it to its original appearance as part of the 50th Anniversary commemoration of the 1906 earthquake and fire. It was later put on ‘permanent loan’ to a rail museum, on the belief that Muni would not use it again. But the San Francisco Historic Trolley Festivals in the 1980s led to its recall to active Muni service. Though operational, it is not currently used in revenue service. The outside seats were slightly shortened in 2004 to allow wheelchair accessibility. Plans have been discussed to fit it with a track brake used on many cars of this class.

1895
Built in San Francisco by Hammond Car Co. for the original Market Street Railway Co. (MSRy). Operated primarily in the Western Addition and Downtown.

Post-1906
Converted into a sand car (work equipment) for Geneva Division. Acquired by Muni in 1944 as part of the purchase of MSRy.

1956
Restored by Muni crafts workers for 1906 earthquake 50th anniversary service. Later loaned to a museum in Solano County.

1984
Recalled by Muni for Trolley Festival service. E-line demonstration on Embarcadero freight tracks in 1987.

1995
After F-line startup, used occasionally in special service, including ‘preview’ E-line service in 2001.

2004
Seats in end section slightly shortened to accommodate wheelchairs.

Market Street Railway’s goal
Assign car No. 578-S to cable car carpentry shop for body tightening and cosmetic restoration. Repaint, check motors, install track brake and meet CPUC requirements. Operate on very limited, promotable basis, amounting to a few weeks annually as part of San Francisco heritage celebrations to be developed by local history groups including Market Street Railway, and co-sponsored by the San Francisco Convention & Visitors’ Bureau. Prominent role in 2012 Muni Centennial.