The Centurion, carriage 4279, underwent significant modifications during its long service life. It was designed as an end-platform car for steam-hauled operation. When the Sydney rail network transitioned to electric power in 1926, 4279 was among 186 carriages selected for conversion.
A key part of this transition was the addition of slide doors, seen here, allowing for more efficient passenger flow at stations. The original layout featured only end doors in the vestibule, which proved impractical for the frequent stops of suburban electric service. Along with this change, the car body was widened, a detail still evident in the abrupt right-angle join where the ceiling meets the walls.
Now preserved, the Centurion remains a rare example of Sydney’s early electric fleet. Restored by dedicated volunteers, it stands as a reminder of the adaptability and craftsmanship that carried these carriages through decades of service.
This print captures a defining element of Sydney’s railway evolution, making it an ideal piece for transport history enthusiasts.