The Trolley Museum of New York recently took delivery of a former SEPTA Market–Frankford Line rapid transit car, an important piece of Philadelphia transit history. Car 618 arrived at the museum in Kingston, N.Y., on March 28. 

Car 618 was one of 270 M-3 cars. Built by the Budd Company and entering service in 1960, these cars became known for their durability, distinctive fluted stainless-steel construction, and decades of reliable service carrying millions of passengers across West Philadelphia, Center City, and Frankford. Railfans affectionately nicknamed the cars “Almond Joys” due to their distinctive roof humps, which gave them a profile reminiscent of the popular candy bar. The only other surviving member of this class was recently restored to operation at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum.

Often referred to locally as the “El,” the Market–Frankford Line is one of the oldest continuously operated rapid transit routes in the United States, with elevated and subway operations dating back to 1907. Budd-built cars such as 618 represented a major technological step forward at the time, emphasizing lightweight construction, corrosion resistance, and improved passenger comfort. The fleet remained a familiar symbol of the line until retirement following the introduction of replacement rolling stock in 1999.

While Car 618 arrived safely, several windows were unfortunately vandalized prior to preservation, and restoration work is already underway. The museum is actively accepting public donations to support the effort. For more information, visit tmny.org.