Book, events note Interurban trolley’s centennial

LYNNWOOD — Talk to old-timers in the area, and they’ll probably be able to tell you about the Interurban line.

From 1910 to 1939, it carried passengers from Everett to Seattle on classy trolley cars with leather seats, stained glass and mahogany-lined walls.

Before I-5 and an automobile in every garage, it was the easiest way to travel between the two cities.

The first official day of operation was May 2, 1910, and to commemorate the 100th anniversary of that date, two local historians have written a book.

“Seattle-Everett Interurban Railway” chronicles the history of the interurban, which eventually included 30 stops along its line and was responsible for shaping development in the area. The book is packed with historical photos.

Cheri Ryan and brother Kevin Stadler co-wrote the book. It went on sale this week. They plan a kickoff event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at Lynnwood’s Heritage Park.

A restored Niles Carbody Works trolley, one of six original cars on the line, will be open for free tours. The authors also will be available to sign copies of their book.

Debra Smith: 425-339-3197, dsmith@heraldnet.com.

Take a ride on the Interurban

The authors of a new book, “Seattle-Everett Interurban Railway” plan an event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at Heritage Park in Lynnwood. A restored Niles trolley car will be open for free tours.