title: Sunderland Tramways Company
text: # Sunderland Tramways Company
  
  The Sunderland Tramways Company operated a tramway service in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear between 1879 and 1901.
  
  ## History
  
  Horse-drawn tramway services started on 28 April 1879, running from Monkwearmouth to Roker. Additional lines south of the river were completed by June 1879. In 1880 an experiment was made with steam locomotives, but this came to nothing, and horse power remained until the company terminated services in 1901.
  
  During the lifetime of the company, the tramcar fleet reached a maximum of 33 vehicles.
  
  ## Closure
  
  The Corporation purchased the company in 1900 for the sum of £35,000, and commenced a programme of modernisation and electrification. The tramway re-opened as Sunderland Corporation Tramways.
  
  