The Kind Murderer

From horsepower to solar power   The new “Kind Murderer” is more or less a replica of the original steam tram that was used on the route between ‘s-Hertogenbosch and Helmond from 1883 to 1937. The original steam tram was steam powered and travelled on a railway. The replica is a tram on pneumatic tires which uses solar power. The new tram looks a lot like its illustrious predecessor, but it has all the high-tech modern comforts on the inside, such as solar panels and batteries. The steam tram was originally put into use because there was a need to connect Gemert and its surroundings with the cities in the region, such as Helmond, Veghel and 's-Hertogenbosch in an easier and faster way (although, faster? A trip with the steam tram from Helmond to 's-Hertogenbosch still took over 3.5 hours). A functional means of transportation then, a functional means of transportation now, because even now, the idea for the new tram originated from the need to transport people within the municipality of Gemert-Bakel by means of public transportation.   This new tram is, just as its predecessor, no more than a metal box that serves as a locomotive. And because of its low speed (it goes about 25 km/h), there is no need to make it aerodynamic. The large, flat roof surface of the carriage has plenty of space for the solar panels. The tram itself is relatively light. The retro version has dark plates and the locomotive has various markings that remind you of the old steam tram.   The Kind Murderer has a fixed schedule from Tuesday to Friday and on Sunday, from April until September. A ticket for The Kind Murderer costs € 1 per person, a round-trip costs € 2 per person. Reservation is mandatory for groups. Tel. Farmers’ Union Museum: +31 (0)492-366444 Schedule from April until September   13:30 h: Farmers’ Union Museum Gemert, Pandelaar 106 (departure); 13:38 h: Stop West-om (De Zoete Moeder); 13:45 h: Stop Ridderplein; 13:48 h: Stop Gerardusplein; 13:52 h: Stop Pastoor Poellplein (Jumbo); 14:05 h: Farmers’ Union Museum Gemert, Pandelaar 106 (arrival)   In July and August, The Kind Murderer also rides the routes below starting at the Farmers’ Union Museum. Departure: 11:00 h. Cost: € 1,-   On Thursday: Route Bakel - Milheeze: this route will take you past golf course De Stippelberg, recreation park Nederheide, Milheeze, Bakel, De Mortel and much more. On Tuesday: Route Handel - De Mortel: farmyard campsite De Kastanjes. This route takes you past the church in Handel, riding school Het Zwarte Water, De Mortel and much more.