Museum Guide News

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum, in Manitowoc, WI cares for a collection of nearly 20,000 objects and a substantial archive pertaining to the maritime history of Wisconsin, Manitowoc shipbuilding, and USS Cobia. This includes more than 60 boats, approximately 300 regionally-built outboard motors, and over 250 ship models. Shipbuilding tools, marine navigational equipment, naval uniforms, and maritime archaeological artifacts also make up significant and growing portions of the collections. When objects are accepted into the museum’s collection, we agree to take care of them in perpetuity. This is an ongoing commitment, and a responsibility we take very seriously. The museum also cares for more than 10,000 Great Lakes shipwreck artifacts, curated on behalf of the State of Wisconsin, in its role as the preferred repository for recovered Wisconsin shipwreck artifacts. (Note, federal legislation in 1987 codified that it is expressly illegal to remove items from historic shipwrecks). The WMM collection is one of the largest maritime collections on the Great Lakes and reflects the museum’s mission of connecting all people with Wisconsin’s waterways, by engaging and educating the public about the Great Lakes, Wisconsin’s maritime history, Wisconsin’s WWII submarines, and USS Cobia. As the museum has grown over the past half-century, caring for our expanding collections has, likewise, become more challenging. While our Franklin Street facility allows us to house over 12,000 objects, items are now vulnerable to damage and deterioration. Through the years this facility has become overcrowded, making a more efficient storage system necessary. So preliminary work, largely grant funded by two programs with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), plans for expansion has begun! We invite you to visit our museum an experience the history of Maritime in Manitowoc, WI and more! https://www.wisconsinmaritime.org/visit/    

Since 1906, the Northern Nevada Railway, in Ely, Nevada has been a logistics hub. Today a vibrant museum experience that takes you inside the inner workings of a railyard. The Museum, is the last of its kind, the sole survivor of a grand era in the Silver State. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Nevada Northern Railway Museum takes you back to a time when the iron horse ruled the rails. It is America’s best-preserved standard-gauge short line and a complete rail facility. In 1983 the railroad ran its last train. Citizens of the town concerned with the economic impacts of the loss of mining and the railroad approached Kennecott with the intent to acquire the railroad and open it as a tourist operation. Though a series of donations the Nevada Northern Railway Museum was formed. When visiting, see the first steam powered passenger excursion left the East Ely Depot Memorial Day weekend 1987 pulled by locomotive #40. You can actually take the Nevada Northern Railway's restored Fairmont Hy-Rail car out on the original Mainline track. This vehicle began life as a very cool 1956 Pontiac Chieftain station wagon. Fairmont converted many of these American family cars into utility vehicles... At the museum experience the thrill of operating a historic Doodlebug railcar with our Be the Engineer program! Take the controls and feel the power of this vintage self-propelled train as you navigate the rails of the Nevada Northern Railway. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for rail enthusiasts of all ages! You’ve heard the stories, read about it, or you’ve seen television programs like Hell on Wheels. But what was it really like to work on the railroad? Here’s your chance to spend a week and find out for yourself what Workin' on the Railroad really means. It’s Hands On... Looking for a unique place to hold your next event? School field trip coming up? Are you looking for a movie location with an authentic 1920's backdrop? Do you want to hold a family reunion aboard a moving train? Need a destination for a very memorable historic automobile rally? A fly-in location for a airplane owners club?Look no further. We can help you with all of this and more. So come and check us online and visit us soon! https://nnry.com/ - 775-289-2085  

The McLean County Museum of History traces its roots back to 1892, the year the McLean County Historical Society was founded. It is a nationally accredited award-winning museum with five permanent exhibit galleries and two rotating galleries. The Museum has its early roots beginning on December 5, 1903 when it held its first meeting in the room set aside for the Historical Society in the new McLean County courthouse. Today this room is currently used for textile storage. Ezra M. Prince, first secretary for the Society, also served as the first custodian caring for its records and curios. This educational institution is dedicated to telling the rich story of McLean County through programs which serve people of all ages. The museum features seven exhibit galleries, preserves more than 18,000 objects, makes available more than 15,000 rare and hard-to-find books on local history and genealogy, and manages 2,000 feet of historical papers and images in its archives.  Our mission is simple, to preserve, educate, and collaborate in sharing the diverse stories of the people of McLean County. This Museum achieves by: Preservation: We are a steward of McLean County history—discovering, researching, and sharing the tangible evidence of the past Education: We are a cornerstone for learning and civic engagement through programs, exhibitions, and outreach Collaboration: We are inclusive, seeking ideas and valuing multiple perspectives We look forward to seeing your anytime, as we are open year-round.  Our hours are from 9am to 5pm, Monday – Saturday. We are closed Sunday! 309-827-428. https://mchistory.org/visit  

In early 1959, the Gates Memorial Library in Port Arthur, TX acquired important historical items, including the first American flag to fly over Port Arthur.  At that time the need for a Museum was evident to many people.  In 1964, the State of Texas chartered the Port Arthur Museum.  The Museum soon outgrew its location and was moved to the Merchant’s National Bank. In 1980, it was relocated again to a wing of the Gates Memorial Library, but that space quickly filled as well. So, in 1987, the Board of Directors adopted a plan to broaden the scope of the Museum to encompass the entire Gulf Coast region. By 1990, the Society had acquired the present Museum building.  Built in 1963, it had formerly served as the First National Bank.  Permanent Exhibits occupy the first two floors, The Museum houses its collections in the bank’s formidable vaults. Between 1991 and 1994, the bank was renovated and Southwest Museum Services began installing exhibits. The Museum of the Gulf Coast opened its doors on July 2, 1994. ​Today - with an increasing emphasis on educational outreach, the Museum hosts thousands of children for school tours, programs, and a summer camp focusing on environmental stewardship.  The Museum also offers “Family Fun Days."  In addition, the Museum serves as a resource for archival documents and photographs for academic researchers as well as local, national, and international media (link to collections). ​The Scope of Exhibits cover 39,000 square feet, containing many exhibits which capture the essence of life along the Upper Gulf Coast. Visitors marvel at the 125-foot mural depicting the area's history from the prehistoric era to the discovery of oil at Spindletop.  ​The Hall of Fame galleries highlight local musicians, athletes, and notable people who have achieved national or international recognition such as Janis Joplin, the Big Bopper, Jimmy Johnson, Karen Silkwood, actress Evelyn Keyes, and artist Robert Rauschenberg.  The museum also includes a wide variety of temporary exhibitions in the Dunn Gallery. https://www.museumofthegulfcoast.org/halls-of-fame To learn about the Museum of the Gulf Coast and the coast’s rich history visit us soon and check us out online:  https://www.museumofthegulfcoast.org/ Address: 700 Procter St., Port Arthur, TX 77640  (Parking & Entrance in back) ​ ​    

Welcome to the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, Georgia, where history comes alive along the scenic Chattahoochee River. This year, we proudly celebrate the 25th anniversary at our current location. Discover the remains of the warship, CSS Jackson, and explore our impressive collection of artifacts and immersive walkthrough exhibits, including replicas of the USS Hartford and the CSS Albemarle.  With the nation's largest array of Civil War naval-related flags, our main gallery invites you to experience this pivotal chapter in American history. We feature engaging events, lectures, tours, and live demonstrations throughout the year. https://www.portcolumbus.org/exhibits-events When you visit us, you will want to experience one of our immersing tours. Below is a list of them to consider when coming! ForTours - Call 706-221-1782, book your group today! Group tours must be scheduled in advance.  Admission included. ​-   VIP Tour – $75 + tax per group of up to 5 people – guided – tour time: 1 hour – Take a private guided tour of the museum and discover the unique exhibits. Your personal guide will focus the tour and discussion on the Union Navy blockade and the fledgling Confederate Navy. A great opportunity for history enthusiasts of all ages to explore the important role of the navies in the Civil War. ​-   Stroll the Decks – $8 + tax per person (20 minimum) – self guided – recommended tour time: 1 hour – A museum interpreter will give a brief introduction to the museum and provide background information about the navies in the Civil War. Guests will then explore the galleries at their leisure. -   A Sailor's Life – $8 + tax per person (20 minimum) – with guide – tour time: 1 hour 30 minutes – A museum interpreter will take the group through exhibits of the nation’s most unique collection of Civil War naval artifacts revealing the history of the navies at war. They will share exciting stories of battles and of the ships and Sailors who fought them. Walkthrough ship reproductions will bring to life the experience of wartime Sailors. -    African-Americans & Civil War Navies – $8 + tax per person (20 minimum) with guide – tour time: 1 hour 30 minutes – An interpreter will introduce guests to this unique museum housing an impressive collection of Civil War naval artifacts. Visitors will then be led on a tour of the museum's exhibits highlighting the African American experience with stories of Sailors and those affected by the war. The guide will answer questions and provide context about the navies in conflict.  Come visit us soon and in the meantime check out our website at:  https://www.portcolumbus.org/ Museum Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00am-4:30pm and Sun 12:30pm-4:30pm - Closed New Years, Easter, Thanksgiving & Christmas  

The Sherman County Historical Museum in Moro, OR is a national award-winning museum presenting Sherman County’s history and all about its community.  Sherman County Historical Society (SCHS) was formed on July 4, 1945, with a picnic held at the park in Moro. 14 people gathered that day to organize a historical society. From the very beginning, it was the dream of the society to someday have a museum in Sherman County. https://www.shermanmuseum.org/full-sherman-history Our museum tells stories of Rural Living when the county was young. In the museum we honor Military Men and Women in a special section dedicated to their service. There are three curated interpretive exhibits: Oregon Trails, Rails and Roads in Sherman County, Wheat through the Ages, and Cultivation, Conservation, & Clothespins. The historic Sherman County Journal: Paper, Ink & Presses is housed in the museum, which is the full layout of printing presses and equipment that was used to print our local newspaper. You will be familiarized with Renewable Energy in Sherman County, a growing industry. The museum also celebrates locals who have given so much of themselves for and the community; sheriffs, local donors, founding benefactors, etc. When visiting the Great Northwest or in Oregon in particular come visit the Museum and learn all about the rich history of Sherman County and it’s contributions to our country! Visit us online to learn more: https://www.shermanmuseum.org/ We are located at 200 Dewey St., Moro, OR 97039. Our hours are Tuesday - Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, May - October. Admission is $15 for Families of 3+, $10 for adults, and $5 for Students (6-18) Museum Members and children under 6 are Free!  

On Your Next Stop in Bend, Oregon Visit the Deschutes Historical Museum Located south of historic downtown Bend, between Wall and Bond Streets, the Deschutes Historical Museum is home to the Deschutes County Historical Society. Inside the historic Reid School building exhibits celebrate the stories of life in the high desert country, the traditional homelands of the Molalla, Warm Springs, Wasco, Northern Piute, and Klamath peoples. From the early attraction of outdoor recreation and roadside tourism to a time when irrigation, the railroad, and lumber mills created new communities during the early 20th century, visitors to the museum will discover the rich and unique history of this area, a living legacy that grows with each new generation. Here's what we collect: https://www.deschuteshistory.org/collections/Put some history in your future, and join us on your next trip to Bend. During your visit check out the museum’s exhibit, Klunkers and Stumpjumpers: A History on Two Wheels, Mountain Biking History of Central Oregon. In the late 1970s, the logging roads and game trails of Awbrey Butte provided a playground of experimentation for early mountain bike pioneers who helped develop and cultivated the sport throughout Oregon. Check out our lates events at - https://www.deschuteshistory.org/events/For more information on these and other happenings at the Deschutes Historical Museum call 541-389-1813 or visit our website www.deschuteshistory.org The Deschutes Historical Museum is a "Blue Star Museum" and is open 10am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday - Saturdays Veterans and Seniors are only $8 Admission and Active Military Members are free with up to 5 family members! Put some history in your future and join us on your next trip to Bend, Oregon.

Perhaps the most famous Swede in American history, engineer John Ericsson will be forever tied to the Battle of Hampton Roads and the victory of the USS Monitor over the USS Merrimack (CSS Virginia). John Ericsson was born July 31, 1803 in Långban, Värmland, Sweden. He had an early aptitude for mechanics and eventually moved to England where he experimented with designs for his most famous invention, the screw propeller. When naval experts in Britain did not have faith in the propeller’s design, Ericsson took his design to the United States where the USS Princeton became the first US naval vessel driven by a screw propeller. At the outset of the Civil War, Ericsson proposed a low-profile metal warship design to the US Navy’s Ironclad Board. Completed in February 1862, the newly commissioned USS Monitor arrived in Hampton Roads on the night of March 8. It battled the ironclad CSS Virginia the next day and held its opponent at bay. The American public subsequently hailed Ericsson and his ship as national heroes. Following the success of the Monitor, Ericsson designed the USS Passaic. Equipped with larger guns, an upgraded pilot house, and built on a more seaworthy platform, the vessel paved the way for six sister vessels. The Passaic-class was among Ericsson’s most successful designs. In his later years, Ericsson worked on the development of solar engines. Though these were not commercially practical, Ericsson is still heralded as an ahead-of-his-time proponent of solar power. On March 8, 1889, John Ericsson died in his home in New York City. In August 1890, his remains were returned to Sweden in a US naval vessel for honorable burial in his homeland. The John Ericsson Collection is on view in the John Ericsson Gallery of the American Swedish Historical Museum in Philadelphia. Image caption: John Ericsson presents his design for the USS Monitor to the US Navy’s Ironclad Board. Mural, A Crisis in our National History, John Ericsson Saves the Northern Fleet painted by Olle Hjortzberg (1872-1959), American Swedish Historical Museum. We welcome you to tour our museum and learn more about John Ericsson!  https://www.americanswedish.org/

Where can you touch what soars through the sky and see what zooms over land? The Estrella Warbirds Museum and Woodland Auto Display! Learn about rare military aircraft and vehicles, plus restored automobiles ranging from American and European classics to racetrack winners. Dedicated to restoring and preserving military aircraft, vehicles and memorabilia, the museum was established 30 years ago at the Paso Robles Municipal Airport. We now encompass 20 acres and 14 buildings with exhibit halls, workshops, library, gift shop, and conference facilities. Experience history firsthand! Aircraft represent the Cold War to today, including Betsy's Biscuit Bomber, the WWII-vintage C-47 Dakota transport aircraft owned and still flown by the Gooney Bird Group. Book your appointment to fly the Hornet simulator on Fridays and Sundays! Ground vehicles include the Red Ball Express display: restored logistics vehicles that supported General Patton’s 1944 march to the Battle of the Bulge. Freedom Hall offers artifacts from World War I to today: actual cockpit instrument displays from U.S. and Japanese aircraft, plus a Norden bombsight, which improved accuracy of U.S. bombers in WWII. You might even recognize your grandparent's flight medals or uniform! The Woodland Auto Display features an 1886 Benz Motorwagen and 2005 Ford GT 550, and everything in between, all in showroom condition. Does racing excite you? Enjoy this amazing collection of race cars including midget, sprint, Silver Crown, modified, NASCAR, and Indy racers. The Woodland Auto Display has been called the best auto museum on the Central Coast! Your admission fee helps this 501(c)(3) honor those who flew, drove, and worked these vehicles. Estrella Warbirds Museum and Woodland Auto Display, 4251 Dry Creek Road, Paso Robles; open Thursday-Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. Visit https://www.ewarbirds.org/index.html  or call (805) 238-9317 for more information.

USS Midway Museum: An American Treasure in San Diego, CA Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure on America’s Living Symbol of Freedom. The USS Midway Museum on San Diego Bay, is the world’s most popular and visited naval ship museum. Dedicated to providing engaging and educational experiences, a visit to Midway not only lets guests enjoy more than 80 years of naval aviation history, but discover what it’s like to be a pilot. Together, families will experience firsthand the legacy of this amazing aircraft carrier museum through Midway’s extensive collection of restored military aircraft. The museum’s flight simulators and virtual reality experience put visitors in the pilot seat, while guests will be captivated by the ship’s award-winning audio tour. Midway’s world-famous volunteers will bring the flight deck to life with gripping stories of launching and landing naval aircraft, as well as tales of high-seas adventure. The Battle of Midway Theater will transport guests back to 1942 through the eyes and voices of American heroes to relive how the Navy turned the tide to victory in the Pacific during World War II. Kids can also earn their Junior Pilot Wings and become naval aviators through fun onboard activities. The museum is rich with artifacts that tell the story of the U.S. Navy, and naval aviation in particular. Displays and exhibits have been developed with these artifacts to provide guests with a better understanding of the role Midway played during its 47-year career in not only protecting American democracy and freedom around the world, but also how the ship supported important humanitarian operations overseas. Midway is a treasured San Diego icon, and visitors to the museum will experience the significant contributions made to the nation by America’s naval service. Midway is a family-fun adventure. We looking forward to welcoming you! For more informtion:  https://www.midway.org/