Trolley and Friends Celebrate the BIG 3-0!

The distinctive sound of the trolley’s bell gets the attention of local folks. We instinctively wave as Fredericksburg’s beloved Trolley rolls down the street, with riders eager to smile and wave back.  The passengers enthusiastically hear the trolley driver share the stories of Fredericksburg, during the tours, which leave from the Visitor Center.

But, there’s so much more to the Trolley’s story.

Thirty years ago, Butch Wimmer began Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg, sharing the stories of “America’s most historic city.”  He was proud of the Trolley and grew the business into an iconic experience, which seem to nestle quickly into Fredericksburg’s landscape.  When Butch passed, his wonderful wife Nancy continued to build the business.  Last night folks gathered for a lovely reception to celebrate the thirty years of history and to look to the future.

Heidi Bass, has owned the business for about an year.  She celebrated the milestone anniversary at the Courtyard by Marriott on July 30.  The celebrants included the trolley drivers, downtown merchants, museum and tourism professionals, and Fredericksburg’s Mayor.

Mayor Kerry Devine recalled her family connection with the trolley – near the beginning of the Trolley’s story.  She explained, three of her four children had summer birthdays.  Their birthdays were celebrated outside.  Her fourth child had a winter birthday, and desperately wanted an outside birthday party.  Kerry called Butch and asked, “Is there any possible way to put 25 ten-year-old kids on your trolley for a birthday party/scavenger hunt around town?”

Of course, Butch said yes.  The winter birthday child was delighted and the family connection with the Trolley is still celebrated.

Heidi Bass, began as a driver, later became the general manager, and now is the proud owner.  In her remarks, Heidi commended Susan Ball, of UMW’s Small Business Development Center, who helped her work through a business plan, and gave great guidance, as she transitioned to business ownership.  Heidi tipped her driver’s cap to the most senior trolley driver, Mark Davis, who ran his first route on July 4, 1995.  He still drives for the trolley and while his hair is a little lighter, his voice, and enthusiasm, hasn’t diminished.

The history shared on the Trolley has evolved in thirty years.  Now included on the tour is Fredericksburg’s contribution to the struggle for Civil Rights, and other stories depicting a broader, richer, and more inclusive history.

One of Heidi’s favorite conversations was with a “senior” friend recently.  She inquired, “Do you do funerals?”

Heidi quickly added, this wonderful lady – is in fine health today – but she was thinking about her “arrangements.”  “When the time comes,” she said, “her intention was to be cremated and to have her friends and family get on the Trolley and ride through the town she loves – with the people she loves …one last time.”

Cheers to another 30 years – Happy Anniversary Trolley – Fredericksburg loves you!

Photo Credit: Raymie Chapman Photography