In the drawing titled “The Interurban,” we see a detailed depiction of an interurban streetcar navigating through a bustling street in Marshall, Michigan. This classic pen and ink style drawing captures a moment in time when interurbans were a vital part of the transportation landscape in the Midwest, particularly from 1900 to 1930.  In the scene, the street is lined with various storefronts, each with distinct architectural features, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of early 20th-century commerce. A group of people, dressed in period attire, waits at the streetcar stop, highlighting the communal aspect of interurban travel. A closer inspection of the art shows people in the shadows of the doors watching the train which had high voltage running through the wires both overhead and on the third rail below.  Overhead, a network of electrical wires powers the streetcar, a reminder of the technological advancements of the era.

The interurban lines played a crucial role in transforming local transportation habits and commerce. They connected cities in the Michigan countryside, providing a reliable and comfortable alternative to the unpaved roads of the time. The rise of these lines introduced the concept of commuting, changing the way people lived and worked. However, by 1930, the Great Depression, along with the advent of cheaper automobiles and improved roads, led to the decline of interurban systems. Despite their eventual disappearance, interurbans left a lasting impact on the transportation infrastructure and urban development of their time. This drawing beautifully encapsulates the essence of that transformative period.

Maggie LaNoue’s art is is characterized by its fine lines and intricate details, evoking a sense of historical authenticity and charm.

Interurban, Marshall – Catalog #37-Mini

This Pen & Ink drawing by Maggie LaNoue is available as cards and prints.  It is part of the Marshall series