Whippany Railway Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of railroad history in New Jersey. Its facilities include the largest collection of standard gauge steam locomotives in the state. The museum also features an interactive model train layout, historic railcars, and a gift shop. In addition, it holds special train rides throughout the year.
Whippany Railroad Museum is located on the site of the former Morris County Central tourist railroad. This railway was operated from 1965 to 1980. However, the line closed in December of 1980, after fifteen years of operation. The freight house in which the train operated was scheduled for demolition, but was saved by the Morris County Central Railroad. The Whippany Freight House was moved across four sets of tracks and is now the Museum’s headquarters.
Whippany Railroad Museum is an excursion train ride, where passengers can see dozens of antique railroad cars and other related railroad equipment. The trains are powered by the Morristown and Erie Railway. Additionally, the museum has a picnic area and gift shop. For a small admission fee, visitors can learn about the history of the rail industry in New Jersey and other railroad-related subjects.
In 2011, the Whippany Railway Museum received recognition by the New Jersey State Assembly. In addition to being named a Museum of History, the facility was also recognized for its excursion train rides. During the Pumpkin Festival, the Museum adds a Pumpkin-liner train to the festivities.
As a member of the Morris County Central Museum, the Museum’s mission is to preserve and educate the public about the history of the railroad in the county. In addition, the Museum raises money to restore the Whippany Railway, which is a heritage railroad in the town of Whippany.
Since opening, the Whippany Railway Museum has become the home of many privately owned railroad equipment and artifacts. These items range from restored railcars to signal gates to air raid sirens. In addition to the collection of antique railcars, the Museum also has a 1904 freight house from the Morristown and Erie Railroad, an operating train model layout, and a 1911 Watch Box.
The Whippany Railway Museum is open Sunday afternoons from noon to 4 p.m. and is located at 1 Railroad Plaza in Whippany, NJ. Admission is just $1 for adults. A child’s ticket is just $0.50. There are a number of excursions and activities for the entire family, including the Easter Bunny Express, a Santa Claus Train, and the Polar Express.
Many people find the experience of riding on the Polar Express to be a memorable experience. Children and adults alike can enjoy the thrill of being on the train, while accompanied by the fun of hearing the hands dance and sing. Visitors can purchase gift tickets to make their visit even more personal. All proceeds from the train ride will help to further the Museum’s historic preservation efforts.
The Whippany Railway Museum is staffed by a volunteer, all-volunteer staff, and it is supported by donations. Its mission is to educate the public about the history of New Jersey’s railroads.
