A tongue-and-mate (single point) switch used commonly
by trolley lines with in-street running. A bit unusual in
an above-ground situation. The tongue (movable point)
is on the viewers right. The mate (fixed point on left).
This is on the MBTA's Green Line at the St. Mary's
station, Boston. Notice to the right of the switch,
the switch iron lying on the ground, which is used to
pry the tongue to the desired direction.

In that larger square box is a spring locking mechanism that
keeps the tongue lined the way it has been moved.

Notice also the transition from standard T rail to girder (street) rail, and
back on both ends of the switches.

Photographed by Lee Carlson, March 27, 2009.
Added to the photo archive by Lee Carlson, March 27, 2009.
Railroad: MBTA.

Lee Carlson's awards:

» Contact the person who posted this photograph.