This exhibit features Steamtown National Historic Site and its museum collections. It explores the development of American railroads and the communities that operated and maintained them.
More efficient than other modes of transportation of the period, railroads unified America during the 19th century. The early 20th century saw a consolidation of smaller railroads and technological breakthroughs that ushered in a golden age of faster and safer rail travel.
Railroad buildings were designed to move passengers, goods and raw materials.
Over time, locomotives became more powerful, and cars were specialized to transport goods and passengers.
The creation and maintenance of railroad infrastructure, including mining and transporting coal, required a large labor pool.
Explore all the objects and historic photographs featured in this virtual exhibit.
Learn about some of the technical aspects at work at Steamtown through videos.
View footage of the Roundhouse and Turntable complex at Steamtown.
Lesson plan provides educational activities on rail transportation of commodities.
Last updated: October 14, 2022
