A railway museum in New Jersey can be a very fun place to visit. Children can learn all about the railroads of the state and enjoy the beautiful scenery as they explore a fully restored train. These museums also offer themed train rides.
Founded in 1980, the United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of New Jersey’s transportation system. The group’s goal is to restore 65 historic trains. They also plan to build a state-of-the-art transportation museum. Located in Phillipsburg, NJ, they plan to lease a 35-acre site and use the building to house and display antique railroad equipment.
A railroad station is a vital part of the network. It is where trains stop to pick up passengers and unload goods. As more people used the rails, towns grew. This meant that more jobs were created and labor unions became more powerful. However, the working conditions were sometimes harsh. Many rail workers were lonely and poor.
The Whippany Railway Museum has a rich history. It is the former Morris County Central railroad, which operated for 15 years in Whippany. In addition to the freight house, the museum has numerous railroad artifacts. Among them are a 1907 Southern Railway train, a 1911 Watch Box, signal gates, and air raid sirens.
The Morris County Central Railroad was the first steam excursion train in the state. Its locomotives departed from the Whippany station with over 400 passengers. There is also a display of equipment and tools for the operation of the railroad, as well as an order board from the Susquehanna Railroad.
The Whippany Railway Museum is a nonprofit organization led by volunteers. The museum is open every Sunday from April through October. Visitors can enjoy excursions that run from noon to 4 pm. During this time, they can ride a real railroad caboose, ride on a vintage trolley, or walk through the elegant passenger depot.
The Whippany Railway Museum also hosts a number of special events. Several times a year, the museum organizes an excursion train ride. Each one of these is a unique experience for passengers. Those who are traveling with kids can choose from a vintage caboose or a miniature fantasy land.
The Whippany Railway Museum has worked hard to prove its quality operation through the support of the public. The nonprofit group has been successful in raising funds for the restoration of the Whippany Railway. They have also been able to acquire and restore many historic railcars and privately owned railroad equipment.
Some of the most popular exhibits at the Whippany Railway Museum are the 1907 Southern Railway train and a restored 1904 freight house. For children, there is also a 30-foot long O-Gauge model train layout. While the museum is open to the public, admission is free.
If you are interested in exploring the rich history of the railroads of New Jersey, then the Whippany Railway Museum is the place for you.