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February 19, 2006
Feature Photo: Lit Up for Carnival!
From around 1910, this photo by Teunisson is of the New Orleans Railway and Light Company headquarters building on Baronne in the CBD. NO Rwy & Lt. Co. was the immediate predecessor to NOPSI. It was the city's attempt to bring the management of all the street railways in New Orleans together. Prior to the formation of this company, various entrepeneurs started street railway service to different parts of town. By the 20th Century, the city's transit system had become more complex. The problems were made worse because some of the operating companies were poorly financed, others experienced technical difficulties, with equipment and rail gauge. When the street railway lines were electrified, purchasing electric power made the financial situation for several operating companies worse.
The city government stepped in and began efforts to unify the transit system. Since streetcars were the biggest consumer of electricity at the time, it made sense for the electric company to also run the streetcars. By 1922, the consolidation was complete and New Orleans Public Service, Incorporated, began operations.
This building on the corner of Baronne and Common Streets, served as NOPSI headquarters for years.
Posted by YatPundit at February 19, 2006 10:33 PM
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