Work on the railway commenced in 1851 and the line reached Victor Harbor in 1864.
For many years goods were conveyed between the mainland and the island on railway trucks drawn by horses.
At that time, horses were used instead of steam engines to contain costs.
The service continued to operate on Granite Island itself until 1956, when the cars were disposed of.
Between 1956 and 1986, a rubber tyred train provided service across the causeway.
One of the projects was to reinstate the horse tramway and the bid was successful.
Replica tram cars were built, tracks were relaid and service recommenced on 14 June 1986.
Sources:Wikipedia/Victor Harbor Horse Drawn Tram
