Our Trolley - Features and Meet our Drivers

Established in 1879, Re-Established in 2023

The Chippewa River Trolley is styled after the streetcars and trolleys that operated on the streets of Eau Claire from the late 1800s until the early 1930s.

Eau Claire Trolley History »

Historic Eau Claire Trolley Photo

Open Air

While it can run full heat or air-conditioning when needed, our trolley really shines with its open-air sides, when riders can get up close and personal with the community around them. With that in mind, come prepared with layers for cool breezes or warm sun.

Open Air Trolley

Wisconsin Built, Hand Painted

The trolley was custom-built for us right here in Wisconsin by Hometown Trolley in Crandon, one of the leading trolley manufacturers in the country.

Our vintage paint and typography detailing was done by hand via Kurt Gaber of Gaber Signs in Chippewa Falls. It can carry up to 22 passengers, maintaining a comfortable and smooth ride.

Hometown Trolley Crandon WI


Trolley Features

Open Air Window & Rails Option

Standard Sliding Trolley Windows

Exterior Trolley Bell

Seats 22 Passengers

Full Heating and Cooling System

Comfortable Vintage Seat Styling

Interior Ring-able Trolley Bell

9-Speaker Audio System

Classic Side Entrance

  Accessibility Information »


Say Hi To Our Drivers

George House

George enjoyed a 40-year radio broadcasting career in Eau Claire — including long-running morning shows on WAXX and I-94 — and was a four-time National Broadcaster of the Year honoree.

Born and raised in Eau Claire (attending North High School), George has been active in community theater and was even an actor at the former Fanny Hill Dinner Theater. As an avid fisherman, vinyl record collector, baseball lover, and history buff, George fell in love with the Trolley from day one.

He lives with his wife Diane, and together they have two grown daughters and three grandchildren.

Henry Lau

Henry grew up in Eau Claire, attending Immanuel Lutheran High School and College, graduating in 2018 with high marks while enjoying writing, art, and foreign languages.

Throughout that time he’s worked in agriculture and foodservice, but since found a niche as a bus driver for students across the Eau Claire Area School District. Henry sought further education at the Chippewa Valley Technical College for Class A CDL vehicle operation, which further diversified his driving skills.

Henry enjoys hymns and playing piano, canoeing, late night walks, and anything that gets him outdoors.

Matt Novacek

Matt is a bit of a jack-of-all-trades at Volume One, serving full-time as the Distribution Manager, Facilities Manager, and the Local Store’s Assistant Manager. Now he’s added “Trained, Professional Trolley Driver” to his repertoire too.

Having grown up in Eau Claire and graduating from UWEC in 2014, Matt has witnessed firsthand the renaissance of this community, and his hometown pride has given him the desire to be engaged in helping Eau Claire thrive.

Matt lives with wife Briana and two sons, Joseph and Xavier. He likes to play kubb and cheer for the Green and Gold.