BusTalk

[Mr. Linsky]

The pictured bus (fleet # 355 upper frame) is a 1950 'Brill' Model C-44 and one of ten likenesses numbered between 355 and 364 delivered to the Washington, Virginia and Maryland Coach Company (WV&M) of Arlington, Virginia in that year.

The photo was taken sometime after the takeover of WV&M by D.C. Transit System of Washington, D.C. in 1964 which was when all usable WV&M equipment was repainted to D.C.'s livery scheme.

However, for legal purposes WV&M remained an independent subsidiary and continued to carry its own flag.

These buses, originally gasoline powered, were converted to Fageol-Leyland Diesels in 1957.

In 1973, all of D.C. Transits assets were turned over to Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA).

Also seen below (lower frame) is sister ship # 363 in a shot taken post WMATA takeover showing the 'Metrobus' decal slapped on amidships but still maintaining the 'Virginia Lines' badge below the windshield.

Brill's fate in bus manufacture was sealed early on just as were those of both Twin and White by their resistance to moving their underfloor engines to transverse mounts in the rear for easier access and servicing.

Photos from the hoteldennis collection on Flickr.

Mr. Linsky - Green Bus Lines, Inc., Jamaica, New York