What Makes a Trolley “Handcrafted”?
At Hometown Manufacturing, every vehicle that leaves our facility in Crandon, Wisconsin has passed through the hands of skilled craftspeople like welders, electricians, painters, carpenters, and more. They're built one at a time with care and precision vs coming off an assembly line.
Here’s a look at what “handcrafted” really means inside our shop.
Welded by Hand, Frame by Frame
Every trolley build begins with the construction of the steel frame. During this step, we take into consideration how the trolley will be used and the customer’s preferences. What layout is needed, what seating style did they choose are there any accessibility needs etc.
This step lays the foundation for a durable, road-ready vehicle. It also allows us to make structural modifications based on the customer’s layout, accessibility needs, or engine configuration.
Wired for Reliability
Once the frame is complete, our electrical team steps in to install the wiring and system components. This includes lighting, powertrain connections, ADA equipment, and custom features like destination signs or camera systems.
Each system is routed and installed by hand, with testing done at multiple points throughout the build.
Woodwork That Sets Us Apart
One of the most recognizable features of a Hometown trolley is the wood interior - the seating, trim, and ceiling details that give each vehicle its signature charm.
We partner with Enterprise Wood Products, a local Wisconsin supplier, to source quality hardwoods. Then, our in-house carpentry team finishes and installs each piece by hand, from seat backs to decorative accents. We offer multiple stain options and layouts, so every customer gets a design that matches their vision.
Assembly and Attention to Detail
As the trolley comes together, teams across the shop add the finishing components: flooring, windows, insulation, climate systems, and exterior paint. It’s a team effort with each department taking ownership of their part and working closely to make sure everything fits, functions, and finishes cleanly.
Built to Order, Built to Last
Handcrafted means we don’t start building until we know what our customer needs - seating layout, engine type, exterior color, signage, and more. Every vehicle is made to order, not pulled from stock.
That flexibility lets us serve a wide range of customers like public transit systems resorts, campuses, and wedding venues - each with a trolley that fits their riders, their routes, and their community.
American-Made, Start to Finish
Being handcrafted also means being deeply local. Our team is based in Crandon, Wisconsin, and we use American-made materials and suppliers whenever possible. We’re Buy America certified, and proud to be supporting jobs and manufacturing right here at home.
The Result? A Vehicle That Feels Different
When you step onto a Hometown trolley, you notice the difference right away. It’s the solid build, the smooth ride, and the knowledge that every part of it was built by someone who takes pride in their work.
That’s what handcrafted means to us.
