Exploring Steamtown National Historic Site: A Journey Through Railroad History
Nestled in the heart of downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) offers a remarkable glimpse into the rich history of America’s railroads. Spanning 62.48 acres, this railroad museum is built on the remnants of the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad (DL&W), providing an engaging environment for railroad enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Steamtown's charm begins with its iconic working turntable and roundhouse, which have been largely reconstructed based on the original DL&W facilities. The roundhouse itself is a dedication to history, having been carefully rebuilt from a 1932 structure, ensuring that visitors can appreciate the engineering marvels of a bygone era. Complementing this are several original outbuildings from 1899 to 1902, all of which have earned their place on the National Register of Historic Places as part of a larger historical site.
The founding of Steamtown can be traced back to F. Nelson Blount, a millionaire seafood processor who began collecting steam locomotives in the 1950s. In 1964, he established the Steamtown Foundation to run a steam railroad museum and excursion business in Bellows Falls, Vermont. The foundation's relocation of Steamtown to Scranton in 1984 marked a pivotal moment—one aimed at urban redevelopment, supported by local initiatives and funding from the city. Yet it was not without controversy; many questioned the museum's historical significance and debated the justification for public funding. Nevertheless, advocates highlighted the site as a vibrant representation of American industrial history.
In 1986, the U.S. House of Representatives approved $8 million for transforming Steamtown into a National Historic Site, a decision that ultimately came to fruition. By 1995, with the National Park Service's acquisition and a total investment of $66 million, Steamtown NHS was well on its way to becoming a premier destination for exploring the history of steam railroads in the United States.
Today, Steamtown NHS seamlessly integrates a functional railroad yard with dedicated exhibit spaces that honor the legacy of railroads in America. Visitors can explore the remaining elements of DL&W's Scranton roundhouse and locomotive repair shops, which provide insight into the equipment and operations that powered this essential industry.
Among the museum's many treasures are exhibits showcasing the history and technology of steam railroads, as well as the interconnections between government, labor, and the railroads themselves. The visitor center features a theater that screens an engaging film throughout the day, highlighting the trials and triumphs of the era.
Families will delight in the hands-on experience of climbing aboard various locomotives and railroad cars, including a recreated DL&W station complete with a ticket window. The display includes an open cab on a steam locomotive featuring cutaway sections that vividly explain the mechanics of steam power. For history buffs, the preservation of part of the 1865 roundhouse inspection pit under glass is a must-see, providing a unique archaeological perspective on the site’s history.
As you wander through Steamtown National Historic Site, you are not just stepping into a museum; you’re embarking on a journey through the story of American railroads—one that shaped the nation’s industrial landscape and continues to resonate today. Whether you're a lifelong train aficionado or a curious traveler, Steamtown offers a captivating experience that celebrates the legacy of steam and the impact it has had on our world.
- Photos By Ken Hulsey
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