Merrill Historical Society and Merrill Transit System are teaming up to celebrate the 125th anniversary of public transportation in Merrill by offering rides along the route taken by Merrill’s trolley from 1890 to 1921. The rides take place Saturday, Sept. 19 and will leave from the Merrill History & Culture Center, 100 E. Third St. in Merrill, every half hour starting at 10 a.m. and running through 12:30 p.m.
Dubbed “The Nickel Tour” because that’s what it cost to ride the trolley, these 45-minute rides will take participants along the route traveled by Merrill’s first mode of public transportation. Costumed presenters will join each ride, narrating the history of the trolley and showing how Merrill’s growth as a city was affected by the trolley line. The History & Culture Center will also be open so guests can visit Nobody Walks Now-A -Days, the temporary exhibit featuring transportation in Merrill.
“Besides being a fun way to learn about an interesting aspect of Merrill’s history, you also have the opportunity to ride in a Merrill-Go-Round bus,” says Jane Francoeur of the Historical Society. “This ride is a great chance to look at Merrill in a whole new way. You’ll want to have your camera along for the photo stop at the trolley mural outside Blooming Wishes.”
There is no charge for the rides, though a free-will donation will be accepted to benefit the Merrill Historical Society.
The Merrill Historical Society’s mission is to educate the public about our heritage using the unique historical and cultural resources we collect and preserve. For further information on the programs and activities of the Merrill Historical Society, or to become a member, please contact the Society at 715-536-5652 or [email protected], or see the website at www.merrillhistory.org.