Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

May 29, 2009 by admin  
Filed under Railroading

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is another part of the Strasburg experience. A trip to the Strasburg Railroad will allow you to walk across the road to the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and experience not only the history such as you would find at the Strasburg RR, but also those eras of unique engines and rolling stock since then.
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For many years the train was the primary mode of long distance transportation. Railroads prided themselves in making their travelers’ experience one of comfort and a unique experience. Trains were also the sole inexpensive means of transportation between large cities in the east coast. Here’s where the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania comes in. Even though you may wish you could experience the good old days, it’s impossible. The museum may be as close as you can get to actually being there.

Here at the museum you can see steam engines, diesel engines, some of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s GG1 electrified engines, and even hand cars. A replica of a small town depot as well as the cabooses can keep your interest for hours. There are group yard tours available, and even a replica of John Stevens’ steam engine.

The Museum’s Location

The museum is located on State Route 741 on the east edge of the town of Strasburg, PA. If you are heading for the museum or the Strasburg RR, I would suggest that you head out there early, or expect traffic delays. This area is one of the most popular in the area. From one location you can see centuries of railroad history.

The original site was opened in the mid 1970’s with a turntable from the Reading Railroad, and a small amount of indoor display area. From there the collection grew, and another indoor area was opened in the mid 1990’s to accommodate the growing museum.

See Their Large Collection of Rolling Stock

This collection of engines and rolling stock is reminiscent of railroads of the eastern part of the United States. The engine collection is of mostly stock from the Pennsylvania Railroad through donations by the railroad, as well as other companies in the area. A few engines from Conrail and Amtrak can also be seen. Limited purchases of unique pieces have helped to round out the collection.

The site has limited space to display their collection, although you will find it well cared for and displayed. As stated above, there is a large shed which houses some of the engines and cars for your enjoyment, and you can walk around them and get a real good feel for railroad steel and iron. Some of the other stock can be found out in the yard. The space is so limited that the museum has no room to provide any demonstrations. So if you want the feel of steam and iron, visit the historic Strasburg Railroad just across the street, where you can experience history and ride on one of the oldest lines in the country. You can have a great day at the Pennsylvania Railroad Museum and the Strasburg Railroad.

Related Post

Visit Strasburg Railroad just across the road from the Museum

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