If you go downtown Phoenix today, you will no longer encounter temporary signage, barricades, and closed streets during the latest phase of the light rail expansion. Granted when the first trolley lines went in well over a century ago, the obstacles were probably not as odious to the general populace. Nevertheless, upon completion, a smoother ride has returned. But what was it like back in the early 1900s?

Pretending you are a winter visitor in Phoenix in the early 1900s, let’s discover what this bustling community had to offer. Jump aboard the MAIN LINE. The line, depending upon the year you hopped on, that ran between 23rd Avenue and 16th Street along Washington Street. (Someday it may go that far west again.)

The west extension had a jog at 17th Avenue with the line running north to Adams Street and then west to the terminus at 23rd Avenue. Interestingly, the reason for this jog, to avoid “plowing” through the middle of the proposed capitol grounds, is reminiscent of the I-10 tunnel jog which eliminated the proposal to demolish Kenilworth School. There was a loop on the eastern end at 16th Street that went south to Jefferson and then returned to Washington Street.

From the western end, explore what was claimed to be the largest ostrich farm in the world. Would you purchase some feathers or eggs to take home? Fabulous Dunbar Rose Gardens at 21st Avenue and Adams had the most amazing flowers to choose from whether you want a dozen buds or open flowers. The fragrance might be overwhelming for some, but the colors were like a painting. Of course, these no longer exist.

Not far from the western end was the territorial capitol on 17th Avenue, completed in 1901. Constructed from different types of rock quarried in Arizona, it was a magnificent edifice and still is today as a museum. Seven years later, the stunning Carnegie Library at 11th Avenue between Washington and Jefferson streets opened surrounded by a park.

We do aim to get our nickel’s worth of sightseeing done today. Be sure to notice city hall and the gazebo on the grounds. Those Sunday afternoon band concerts were amazing. Lots of storefronts, but wow, Korricks Department Store is impressive. Perhaps we should check it out.

*The Fry Building. Photo courtesy of Donna Reiner.*

The Fry Building on the northwest corner of 2nd Street and Washington is one of the oldest brick commercial buildings. It does have iron corners on the first floor. A rather unique element so stop by on your next trip.

After passing many homes, we’ll reach the end of the line on 16th Street. Around the loop to Jefferson and 16th streets notice Phoenix Park. After the Phoenix Railway Company sold it to the city, it was renamed Eastlake Park.

The lake is wonderful, although occasionally one might hear rumors of crocodiles swimming around. Not into rowing around? You could take a swim in the Natatorium. And that’s the end of “cruising” Washington by streetcar.

Note: You can still see the Capitol, the Carnegie Library, Korricks (use your imagination, it is under all that stucco), the Fry Building, and Eastlake/Phoenix Park (although the lake is long gone).

Donna Reiner is the co-author of three books on Phoenix history and a board member of Preserve Phoenix.

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