Andrew Hallidie

American inventor

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June 29, 2026

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Andrew Hallidie was an American inventor best known for developing the cable car system in San Francisco. He was motivated to create this system after witnessing the injuries sustained by horses pulling heavy loads up the city's steep hills. Hallidie's invention was first tested in 1873 and was soon adopted by other cities, though San Francisco is the only one that still operates them today. The cable car system, while a picturesque and historic mode of transportation, was significantly impacted by the 1906 earthquake and fire, with much of the original network not being restored.1

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streetcar
…cable car, the invention of Andrew Hallidie, was introduced in San Francisco on Sacramento and Clay streets in 1873. The cars were drawn by an endless cable running in a slot between the rails and passing over a steam-driven shaft in the powerhouse. The system was well-adapted for operation on…
Read More
…cable car, the invention of Andrew Hallidie, was introduced in San Francisco on Sacramento and Clay streets in 1873. The cars were drawn by an endless cable running in a slot between the rails and passing over a steam-driven shaft in the powerhouse. The system was well-adapted for operation on…
Read More