Last updated: 3/12/2010
505 Nutt Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
| April 1 - September 30 |
| Monday - Saturday | 10:00 am - 5:00 pm |
| Sunday | 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm |
| October 1 - March 31 |
| Monday - Saturday | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Adults $7
Seniors/Military $6
Children 2-12 $3
Children under 2 free
|
Mark Koenig
phone: 910-763-2634
|
We tell the story of the railroads and the people who worked on them. Our particular emphasis is on the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, headquartered in Wilmington for over 125 years. Attractions for all ages include historical displays, railroad life re-creations, full size steam locomotive and caboose, lively Children's Hall for young visitors, and spectacular HO model layout. Housed in an authentic 1880s freight warehouse, the Museum is fully accessible with a well appointed Gift Shop for distinctive purchases.
The Museum began in 1979 through the efforts of three women who wished to preserve the history and heritage of railroad times in Wilmington. Starting with a modest group of artifacts that could be viewed only two days a week, the Museum increased its collections and programs over the next 25 years to provide a wide ranging overview of railroad history, occupations, special interests, and scale model operations. Having completed a move in 2007, the Museum now occupies refurbished facilites in an original railroad building and sees about 18,000 visitors across 330 days of operation each year.
Cased collections illustrate steps in the growth of the Wilmington & Weldon Railroad (later the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad) from 1834 to 1960, occupations and "tools of the trade," special aspects of railroad life (Pullman, dining car, brotherhoods, etc.) and more. Full-size recreations describe life in maintenance-of-way activities, station agents, and clerical work. Railyard items include a 1910 steam locomotive on display, boxcar with "hobos," caboose, and original signaling items. Model demonstrations trace the evolution from 100-year-old toy trains to the latest in craftsmanship and logical controls.
Several library collections reinforce the Museum's viewable artifacts and exhibits. These include hundreds of bound volumes, periodicals and journals, historical and technical works, flat works (maps, charts, drawings, etc.), media collection, and art/photography. These are available by permission for research or scholarly pursuits.
The Museum regularly schedules school and adult groups for guided instructional tours. Docents are available for detailed information about railroads and their impact on economic and societal development. Scheduled tours receive discounted admission; see website for details, www.wrrm.org.
Board of Directors and a paid Executive Director.
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars, Members
Appointment required: Yes
Quarterly newsletter for members
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