Home to more than 6,000 small objects, the collection covers almost every facet of railroading.
Railroading Objects and Artifacts Collection
We are best known for having the most comprehensive collection of early American locomotives and rolling stock. The object collection also includes more than 6,000 historic railroading artifacts. The collection covers almost every facet of railroading, like clocks, pocket watches, textiles, lanterns, dining car china, silver, fine art, communication devices, Pullman porter objects, signals, uniforms, shop equipment, tools, and much more. While much of the collection is on display, still more is housed in storage.
The National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation is committed to making our collection accessible to researchers, scholars, and educational institutions, whenever possible.
Research inquiries and loan requests can be made by completing our research request form.
Explore Other Areas of the Collection
Did you know?
Carrollton Viaduct, one of the first major rail bridges built in the world, was constructed by the B&O in 1829 and is so sturdy that it continues to carry CSX freight trains to this day.
“The Underground Railroad exhibit particularly made an impression. You can learn about the enslaved people who passed through Mount Clare Station as their last stop before reaching the northern states. Sobering and inspiring stories.”
Alison J.
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