San Francisco’s cable cars are more than just a charming relic of the past, they are an enduring symbol of the city’s history and ingenuity. But as these beloved vehicles traverse their well-worn tracks, a vital and often understated chapter of their story unfolds: the remarkable contributions of the cable car women who have mastered the demanding art of “the grip”.

To stand at the platform of a cable car, feeling the raw power of the moving cable beneath your feet, is to witness a unique blend of mechanical ingenuity and human skill. The role of the grip person, traditionally a male domain, demands exceptional physical strength, unwavering focus, and an almost intuitive understanding of the intricate dance between the car and the constantly moving cable.

Yet, for decades, a determined group of women has been steadily carving their place in this crucial aspect of San Francisco’s transportation heritage, proving that the strength and dexterity required know no gender.

Art and Demands of the Grip: More Than Meets the Eye

The title “gripwoman” might sound straightforward, but the responsibilities it encompasses are anything but. The primary duty lies in the skillful manipulation of the cable car’s grip mechanism. This robust clamp, operated by a series of levers, is what allows the operator to “grip” the continuously running steel cable housed beneath the street. It is this grip that propels the multi-ton vehicle forward. Releasing the grip, combined with the precise application of various braking systems, brings the car to a smooth and controlled stop.

This is not a task for the uninitiated. Gripwomen must develop a profound understanding of the cable’s tension, the nuances of the terrain, and the responsiveness of their vehicle. They must possess the physical stamina to repeatedly engage and disengage the heavy grip levers throughout their shifts.

Beyond physical prowess, mental acuity is paramount. Gripwomen are constantly assessing their surroundings – anticipating traffic flow, pedestrian movements, and the precise timing of stops and turns, all while expertly maneuvering a historic and weighty machine.

The work demands long hours, often under the unpredictable conditions of San Francisco’s weather – from dense fog and driving rain to the bright glare of a sunny afternoon. For years, this demanding profession remained largely the purview of men. However, the women who have embraced this challenge have not only met its rigorous demands but have excelled, demonstrating a level of skill and dedication that has irrevocably altered the landscape of the cable car system.

Shattering the Mold: Pioneer Fannie Mae Barnes

The notion of a woman at the helm of a cable car was once a distant thought, a challenge to deeply ingrained perceptions. But in 1998, Fannie Mae Barnes, a woman of formidable spirit and determination, stepped forward and shattered that barrier. At the age of 52, she etched her name in San Francisco history as the first woman to officially serve as a cable car gripwoman.

Fannie’s achievement was a seismic event, a powerful statement that physical capability transcends gender. She navigated not only the demanding mechanics of the job but also the weight of societal expectations and the inherent challenges of entering a traditionally male-dominated field.

Her journey was one of unwavering resilience. Having previously served as a Muni bus driver, Fannie brought with her a wealth of experience in public transportation.

Her transition to the cable cars was not merely a career change; it was a bold declaration of equal opportunity within the public service sector. Until her retirement in 2002, Fannie Mae Barnes served as a living testament to perseverance, her presence on the cable car platforms an inspiration to countless individuals.

A Rising Tide: the Next Generation of Cable Car Women

The groundwork laid by Fannie Mae Barnes paved the way for a new generation of determined women to take up the mantle of the grip. Each woman who followed has brought her unique strengths and perspectives to the role, further enriching the legacy of women on the cable cars.

Willa Johnson, certified in 2010, became the second woman to conquer the demanding grip. Her continued service stands as a powerful symbol of progress and an ongoing inspiration within the transit industry. Willa’s dedication and skill have solidified her position as a respected member of the Muni team and a vital role model for aspiring gripwomen.

In 2016, Amber Jones, a San Francisco native with a deep connection to her city, joined the ranks. Having started her career as a bus operator, Amber’s transition to the cable cars was driven by a desire to embrace a unique challenge and become part of an enduring San Francisco tradition. She speaks passionately about the profound reward of demonstrating to others, particularly young women, that perceived limitations can be overcome.

Catrena Brown further expanded this legacy in 2022, becoming the fourth woman to officially operate a cable car grip. Her arrival was widely celebrated as another significant step towards a more inclusive and representative workforce within the city’s transportation system.

More recently, in 2024, Annie Washington and Chanelle Smith both achieved their certifications as gripwomen. Annie, who previously worked as a Muni conductor, harbored a long-held admiration for the cable car system and a desire to actively participate in its storied history. Chanelle, a seasoned Muni operator, viewed the gripwoman role as a personal challenge, an opportunity to showcase her skills and unwavering determination.

Notably, Annie Washington had the distinct honor of being mentored by the pioneering Fannie Mae Barnes, creating a powerful link between the first and a new generation of women gripwomen.

Beyond Breaking Barriers: the Human Element

The significance of these women extends far beyond simply breaking gender barriers. Each gripwoman brings her individual strengths, experiences, and perspectives to the job, enriching the culture of the cable car system and serving as a powerful source of inspiration.

Amber Jones eloquently describes the profound impact of women approaching her, expressing their surprise and newfound awareness that women can indeed perform this demanding role. For Amber, this daily interaction underscores the importance of visibility and the power of challenging preconceived notions.

Annie Washington and Chanelle Smith echo these sentiments. Annie, carrying the torch passed down by Fannie Mae Barnes, feels a deep sense of responsibility to excel and prove that she belongs. Chanelle hopes her journey will inspire others to pursue unconventional career paths, to push beyond perceived limitations and embrace challenges with courage and resilience.

A Legacy Forged in Steel and Determination

These remarkable women are not merely performing a job; they are actively shaping history. By embracing this physically demanding and historically significant role, they are rewriting the narrative surrounding women in public service and demonstrating that progress is invariably fueled by courage and the willingness to defy expectations.

What began with the groundbreaking achievement of one woman has blossomed into a proud and enduring legacy, one that will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations to reach for their ambitions, regardless of traditional boundaries.

So, the next time you find yourself aboard a San Francisco cable car, ascending or descending those iconic hills, take a moment to reflect on the women who have left their indelible mark on this beloved institution.

Cable Car Women Today

From the pioneering spirit of Fannie Mae Barnes to the dedication of the women who currently hold the grip, their stories serve as a powerful reminder that history is a continuous creation, forged by those brave enough to challenge the status quo and climb even the steepest of inclines. Their legacy extends far beyond the clanging bells and winding tracks; it is a testament to progress, equality, and the unwavering courage to embrace any challenge, no matter how formidable it may seem.

Taking the cable car is usually high on the list of things to do for most visitors to San Francisco (whether it’s a male or female gripperson), and it is absolutely something that you should do if you get the smallest chance. Both our SF in a Day and Half-Day SF City Highlight tours begin with a cable car ride up to the top of Nob Hill (where we usually visit the Cable Car Museum on weekends). We also take the cable car back down the hill, meaning guests are able to get all the pictures and videos they need of this memorable experience. All metro travel for the day is included in the ticket price.

For an in-depth look at how Maya Angelou became the first black female conductor on a San Francisco streetcar, when the city was forced to racially integrate due to staffing shortages during World War Two, read this article.

If you have any feedback on Strength & Skill: the Cable Car Women,  please email us or reach out on social media, we’d love to hear from you.

– By Dara Mihaly (Instagram)