Within the first two days of operation the railway proved to be a big hit.
Over 500 passengers and innumerable wagons made use of its cars to make the trip between downtown and the Flats. In its early days, the Incline Railway was a favourable trip, presenting itself as both economical and enjoyable compared to the treacherous road or the long walk up the stairs beside the railway. Plenty of people still choose to save the money and take the stairs or continue up the road, but for many businesses the railway was very useful.
The railway was doing brisk business, as this 1908 photo can attest.
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A view of the hoist room under the platform on College Avenue. The hoist room included the drums, brake wheels, line shafting, guide sheaves, gear wheels, motors, motor generator set and safety cable devices. The engine ran a pulley system that was 32' long and 10" in diameter, and was attached to the three gear wheels. The man in the bowler hat, second from the left, is company president Joseph Hostyn, and the gentleman second from the right is company engineer Charles Taylor.
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This photo shows the Edmonton Incline Railway in operation. Notice horse-drawn wagons on one side of the lift. Although there was a separate enclosure for pedestrians, you can see the stairs on the right (which could be used for free) were a popular option.
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