03/16/2023
Come see us at The Museum That Moves You! Our current hours are Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. with special train rides today at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.
N.C. Transportation Museum
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This 60-acre site is filled with immersive exhibits & special events. The N.C. Transportation Museum is a state historic site, part of the N.C.
Four exhibit buildings represent the remaining structures of Historic Spencer Shops, once Southern Railroad's largest steam locomotive repair facility on the east coast. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The site is supported by the N.C. Transportation Museum Foundation, as well as its volunteers, members, and visitors.
This family-friendly museum is a 60-acre site with interactive exhibits, special events, trains, planes, automobiles, trucks, and even a Wright Flyer replica! Four large exhibit buildings are among the remaining structures of the historic Spencer Shops, once Southern Railway's principal steam locomotive repair facility on the east coast. Spencer Shops was a vital link to North America’s vast rail network. The museum reaches beyond its railroad roots to tell the story of North Carolina’s importance in transportation industry to include travel by road and air. The Museum That Moves You is a source of education and fun for young and old. There’s plenty to see and do. Take a ride on the train or turntable, reminisce about vintage vehicles on display, learn about transportation history, participate in Day Out With Thomas™, or take THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. There's something for all to enjoy! The fun doesn’t have to end there! Consider volunteering or becoming a member of the N.C. Transportation Museum!
Operating as usual
03/15/2023
March 17 is the deadline to register your scout for our BSA Aviation Day on March 25 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. They will have a fun filled day as they work towards earning their Aviation Merit Badge.
Register them today on our website https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/bsa-aviation-day/.
03/14/2023
We struck gold with our St. Patrick’s Day Train attendees! We had a blast last weekend as we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day! Here are some of our favorite photos from the event.
03/13/2023
On April 19 we will be traveling to Raleigh by rail to visit the N.C. Museum of History, the N.C. Museum of Natural Science, and the State Capitol building!
Join us as we explore the new exhibition “James Cameron – Challenging the Deep.” Tickets are $95 per person ($90 for NCTM Members), and includes travel and admission to the special exhibition.
Purchase your ticket today before they sell out!
https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/traveling-tour/
03/12/2023
Hop, Skip, and Jump on over to The Museum That Moves You for our Easter Bunny Express event! Join us April 1-2 and 7-8 for an eggscelent time! We will have opportunities for meals with the easter bunny, games, photos with the easter bunny and more!
Join us on April 7-8 for an egg hunt available for ages 0-10. There are different start times depending on age.
Skip over to our website for more information and to get your tickets!
https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/easter-bunny-express/
03/11/2023
We’re gearing up for Wind & Wings on March 25 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.! Join us to learn more about aviation with speakers, demos, fun activities, and more!
We will have wind tunnel experiments, foam plate gliders, DC-3 tours, Wright Stuff Simulators, remote control flyers, and more!
Get your tickets in advance by flying to our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/wind-and-wings/.
03/10/2023
Not only do we have planes, trains, and automobiles to see at The Museum That Moves You, we have MOOKIE! She loves keeping up with the visitors of the museum and seeing what you’re up to.
Come see her today 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.!
03/08/2023
If you’ve been trying to find a fun group activity for your friends, organization, or business, head down to the N.C. Transportation Museum for interactive exhibits, a train ride, and more history than you could imagine!
We offer group rates for 15 people or more. Visit our website to learn more and book your next group outing!
https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/group-rates/
03/07/2023
Scouts, don’t forget to register for our Scouts BSA day happening on March 25 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.! Scouts will get to ride the train, perform flag ceremonies, and participate in workshops to help them earn their Aviation Merit badge. Registration ends on March 17 so fly over to our site to register now! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/bsa-aviation-day/
03/06/2023
Don’t get pinched this St. Patrick’s Day! Check out our green Southern Railway quarter zip sweatshirt! You can purchase it here https://shopnctransportationmuseum.com/collections/southern-railway/products/southern-railway-collar-sweatshirt.
03/05/2023
We’re headed to Raleigh for the day! Join us as we travel to Raleigh by train to visit the N.C. Museum of Natural Science, and their new exhibition “James Cameron – Challenging the Deep.”
We will meet at Salisbury Station at 6:45 a.m. on April 19 and return home around 8:00 p.m.
Get your tickets early because this is sure to sell out!
https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/traveling-tour/
03/04/2023
Most of the restoration work you see on our trains, planes, and automobiles is completed by volunteers. In 2022, some 137 volunteers contributed 13,244 hours to the museum. Much of that time is spent on weekends, but you might see volunteers at work on weekdays too.
Would you like to help us restore equipment or tell our story? Consider volunteering yourself by visiting our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/volunteer/.
03/03/2023
Steam models and full sized steam
Love trains? We have trains! Join us today and Saturday, March 4, for “Steam Over Spencer: A Live Steam Model Train Event.” The museum is open 9am until 5pm both days. Train rides are still available at 1pm today and 10am, 11am, 1pm, and 2pm on Saturday. The model steam event is included with admission. More info: https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/steam-over-spencer/
03/03/2023
We wouldn’t be able to bring history to life if it weren’t for our staff! March is employee appreciation month, and we are grateful for all of our staff members that bring smiles to our visitors’ faces every day!
03/02/2023
You don’t want to miss this new event coming to The N.C. Transportation Museum! Steam Over Spencer: A Live Steam Model Train Event is happening TODAY through March 4 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Live steam model locomotives produce their own power from a variety of fuel sources rather than being powered by an electric current through the track, making them different from conventional electric trains. Owners of these fascinating models are expected to come from across the country to share their detailed collections with other hobbyists and museum visitors.
Get your tickets early or learn more by heading to our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/steam-over-spencer/.
03/01/2023
As we MARCH into a new month, we have updated hours!
Come see us Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. for interactive exhibits, turntables rides, and to learn more about transportation history. We have 60-acres to explore!
We will have train rides this month on Friday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., Saturday at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. We will offer a train ride on Thursday March 16 at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m.
02/28/2023
With 60-acres of historic trains, planes, and automobiles, what better way to spend your day?
Come see us this week from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. through Saturday, and 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday.
We have interactive exhibits, a train ride on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, turntable rides, and four exhibit buildings to explore.
02/27/2023
Join us on April 23 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Prior to opening to the general public, the museum will be open for an Autism-Friendly event. Trained educators and volunteers will be stationed around the museum with specially designed interactive activities to create a meaningful experience at each exhibit.
For more information and to get your tickets, head to our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/autism-friendly-day/.
02/26/2023
We’re gearing up for our Tractors & Trains event on April 14 & 15. April 14 is reserved for school and preformed groups only, but April 15 is for the general public.
There will be a tractor parade at 3 p.m.!
Learn more and book your school group by visiting our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/tractors-and-trains/.
02/25/2023
Ever wonder what it was like to work around these huge locomotives and railroad cars? The Life of a Brakeman exhibit gives an inside look at what the job entailed and how the difficult job changed during the change from steam to diesel locomotives. Learn about George Winslow Whittington, a Black man whose job was made even more difficult during the era of segregation.
https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/brakeman-exhibit/
02/24/2023
It’s a bird…it’s a plane… no, it’s our Wind & Wings event! Wind & Wings is back on March 25 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with high-flying machines, speakers, demos, aviation groups, and more!
Your general admission ticket gets you in to experience wind tunnel experiments, foam plate gliders, DC-3 tours, Wright Stuff Flight Simulators, Remote control Flyers, and more!
Fasten your seatbelt and fly to our website to learn more! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/wind-and-wings/
02/23/2023
Spring is upon us! Our updated hours starting in March are Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Train rides are offered on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout March. Head to our website to see our full hours and to get your tickets early! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/
02/22/2023
Only one week left to visit our Oasis Spaces exhibit in honor of Black History Month. This exhibit features from the historic green book that listed Oasis Spaces or businesses where African Americans could safely visit and stay during the Jim Crow era.
Learn more by heading to our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/oasis-spaces/.
02/21/2023
Cub scouts, don’t miss you chance to earn some belt loop requirements! Registration closes tomorrow for our Cub Scout Transportation Explorer Day where scouts will participate in a train ride, turntable rides, a scavenger hunt, and more! The event is held on March 4 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Register today before it’s too late! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/cub-scout-day/
02/20/2023
A small array of items from the permanent collection of the North Carolina Transportation Museum, these would have been common sights on the Pullman train cars during much of the 20th century. These hangers for guests’ clothes and a sign requesting quiet at night would have been meticulously put in place every day by the Porters who staffed these cars. Once the largest employer of Blacks in the United States, Pullman offered good wages and the opportunity to join one of the largest labor unions for the thousands of black men who worked as Pullman Porters in their cars.
02/19/2023
Piedmont Airlines took to the skies 75 years ago today. You can see an example of the DC-3 airplanes used by the airline as well as other Piedmont memorabilia when you visit The Museum That Moves You!
75 years ago, on the afternoon of February 19, 1948, 29 year-old Thomas H. Davis boarded a DC-3 in Winston-Salem and personally flew it to Wilmington, NC to prepare for the first flight of his new airline.
Flight #41 would take off from ILM at 7:05am the following morning, February 20, 1948. Piedmont Airlines was born. The plane had an official designation as NC37468 but had been christened the "Kanawha River Pacemaker." Said Mr. Davis, "From the very beginning, our motto has been 'Piedmont Sets the Pace.' That's why we call our airplanes Pacemakers."
Here is a shot from the first flight. The route was ILM-SOP-CLT-AVL-TRI-LEX-CVG.
(Courtesy of the Piedmont Aviation Historical Society)
02/19/2023
X2Download.appSteam Over Spencer(1080p)
Steam is on its way to Spencer! Join us on March 2-4 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. for Steam Over Spencer: A Live Model Train Steam Event.
This event will feature live model trains from all over the country on display for all to see. These locomotives produce their own power from a variety of fuel sources rather than being powered by an electric current through the track, making them different from conventional electric trains.
This event is included in general admission, but advance ticket purchase is recommended! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/steam-over-spencer/
02/18/2023
So much to see, so much to do, and lots more fun with a group! Schedule a school tour, a civic or senior group tour, or just a large group of friends or family, for a day out at the museum! Our group rates are offered to groups of 15 or more people. To book your group, contact June Hall at 980-305-6274 or [email protected].
02/17/2023
AACA Quilt
Members of the North Carolina Antique Automobile Club of Roxboro won this handmade quilt out of 1,000 club members. Each square represents one of each 17 auto clubs in the state and an additional square for the AACA logo. It took over two years to make the quilt and each piece is sewn in the shape of North Carolina. It is currently on loan to the N.C. Transportation Musuem for all to enjoy.
02/16/2023
We had the perfect romantic evening at our annual Wine & Dine on the Rails event this past weekend. Here are some highlights from the night in case you missed it! Be sure to join us next year!
Special thanks to our Wine and Dine train crews who kept us rolling both nights. (Note: Engineer has locomotive properly isolated for safety.)
02/16/2023
Come see us from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday! We will have train rides on Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m.
Our hours for March – Labor Day are Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Monday.
Our train ride times March – May are Friday at 10a.m., 11a.m., and 1p.m.
Saturday at 10a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 2 p.m.
Sunday at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., & 3 p.m.
Thursday March 16, April 20, and May 18 at 10a.m., 11a.m., and 1p.m.
02/14/2023
Mookie is feline the good this Valentine’s Day! Come see her and give her some love!
02/13/2023
Fly me to the moon…
We may not be able to fly you to the moon this Valentine’s Day, but we can fly you back in time with our aviation exhibits! We have a historic DC-3 Piedmont Airlines plane, a life sized replica of the Wright Brothers flyer, and an entire Piedmont Airlines exhibit!
Come see all these exhibits and more at The Museum That Moves You!
02/12/2023
Steam engines were a driving force of the modernization of America during the Industrial Revolution around 1800s. At one time, the N.C. Transportation Museum was home to one of the biggest engine repair facilities in the south. Today, tip your hats to our history and the history of steam engines in America with our new exhibit “The Power of Steam”. This exhibit features photographs by Jeffrey Stoner of these steam locomotives in action. Learn more about the exhibit by visiting our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/the-power-of-steam/.
02/11/2023
On scouts honor, we will do our best to have the best Cub Scout Transportation Explorer Day you will attend all year!
Join us on March 4 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. for a train ride, turntable rides, a scavenger hunt, lunch, and more! Scouts will earn requirements for their belt loops throughout the day.
Book your troop by February 22 to ensure a spot! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/cub-scout-day/
02/10/2023
Are you looking for a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift? Get a membership to The Museum That Moves You to ensure year-long fun! Membership benefits include early access tickets to some events, discounted event tickets, free admission and train rides during non-event days, 10% off discount at the gift station, invitation to Members’ Day, and more!
Renew your membership or get a new one here https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/membership/!
Address
1 Samuel Spencer Drive
Spencer, NC
28159
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |
| Saturday | 9am - 5pm |
| Sunday | 12pm - 5pm |
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Videos
NCTM_Bostian_final
Famously known as one of the most memorable train wrecks in NC history, the Bostian’s Bridge Train Wreck claimed the lives of 23 people in 1891. Since the wreck, there have been reports of paranormal activity along the tracks. The bridge is still in use today and continues to be a route many trains take while on their journey. #BostiansBridge #TrainWreck #TheMuseumThatMovesYou #History
Thomas and Percy are rolling today! Tickets are still available for this afternoon and tomorrow, October 9, online or here at the museum. Sir Topham Hatt is here too, along with lots of fun activities! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/day-out-with-thomas/
Day Out With Thomas 2022
Day Out With Thomas is here! Join Thomas and his friends THIS WEEKEND for a day packed full of fun. Tickets are selling fast! Get yours by visiting this link https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/day-out-with-thomas/. #ThomasTheTrain #VisitLocal #VisitRowanCountyNC
All aboard for Day Out With Thomas at the NC Transportation Museum. Tickets are still available at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/day-out-with-thomas/
At the age of 7, Lane Baker got his first ride in a locomotive aboard Norfolk Southern Baldwin AS416 No. 1616. Today, Lane serves as our VP Rail Operations and was at the throttle to move the 1616 under its own power after many years of being on static display. “When we tried to open the throttle and the traction motors kicked in, we couldn’t believe it.” There is still work to be done, but today was a huge step forward thanks to the mechanical talents of Brad and Ryan Wujcik and Donnie Smith. Norfolk & Western No. 620 came along for braking assistance as a safety precaution.
“Hey, what’s that sound?”
Group Rates
🏫 School is out for summer! Now is the perfect time to book a group visit at The N.C. Transportation Museum! Clubs, scout troops, or friends, everyone is welcome to visit The Museum That Moves You. Our museum hours are Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. and closed on Monday. Check out our group rates page on our website for pricing and reservations. https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/group-rates/. #TheMuseumThatMovesYou #VisitRowanCounty #TransportationMuseum
Take a ride on the train turntable at the NC Transportation Museum
If you want an inside look at some fun things the N.C. Transportation Museum offers, then check out this video! The News and Observer’s Martha Quillian took a trip to the museum and even had a ride on the turntable! We love seeing the Museum That Moves You through your eyes! Visit us Tuesday - Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. or Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Credit: The Raleigh News and Observer https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.newsobserver.com/news/local/article262981343.html?fbclid=IwAR0EjAbHnu8DGy4eTfWLTi0HPerzvAhAdXWbfGIBw44ZB7rZ40vzLcHgVc8&fs=e&s=cl
Brew & Choo Craft Beer Fest
Enjoy exclusive craft beers while riding the rails at the N.C. Transportation Museum on August 13, from 4 – 9 p.m. at Brew & Choo Craft Beer Festival! During the event, some of North Carolina’s best craft brewers will be onsite for you to purchase and sample their original brews. Enjoy LIVE MUSIC from 90’s cover band Gump Fiction! 🚂 Top off your experience by purchasing a train ride ticket and while aboard you’ll get to sample brews New Sarum has crafted specifically for this event. 🍺 Learn more and purchase tickets at https://nctransportationmuseum.org/brew-and-choo. #BrewandChoo #CraftBeer #NCBeer #NewSarum #26Acres #HighBranch #AmoredCow #BuzzedViking #Seaboard #FourSaint #VisitNC #VisitRowanCountyNC
Fire Truck Show This Weekend!
Get 🔥FIRED🔥 up for the annual Fire Truck Show! 🚒 Come meet firefighters from across the state, get a close-up look at the equipment they use, and enjoy a fun family day at the museum. Join us on Saturday, June 18 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Enjoy train rides throughout the day! Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended, you can purchase them here: https://nctransportationmuseum.org/fire-truck-show. #Fire #FireTruck #FireFighter #MuseumThatMovesYou
NCTM_BeforeAfter1_final
For this month’s 45th anniversary reminisce, we take a look at what the interior of the back shop looked like in the late 1970s when Southern Railway donated Spencer Shops to the State of North Carolina. This remind us of how much work has gone into making the North Carolina Transportation Museum the destination it is today, and we would like to thank the tireless work of countless staff, volunteers, and all other friends of the museum who have helped and continue to help us preserve and display the transportation history of North Carolina. #MuseumThatMovesYou #45thanniversary #History
Marcus is here at the Cheerwine Festival in Downtown Salisbury to tell you about the giveaways we have including tickets to some BIG events you won’t want to miss! 😉
Come on out to the Cheerwine Festival today where we have a booth setup. We are doing giveaways and enter to win for THE POLAR EXPRESS ™ Train Ride and Day Out With Thomas ™ tickets. The festival starts at noon and we will be here until 6 p.m. #cheerwinefest #cheerwinefestival #cheerwine #visitrowancountync
NCTM_TrainCompilationSquare_final.mp4
🚂 National Train Day was started by Amtrak in 2008 as a method to spread information to the public about the advantages of railway travel and the history of trains in the United States. We are honored to share the legacy of train travel at the N.C. Transportation Museum! Comment below or share a photo of your favorite locomotive at the museum! #NationalTrainDay #Amtrak #RailFan #MuseumThatMovesYou
NCTM_SquareVid1A
The Historic Spencer Shops Train Show features over 180 tables of vendors, the biggest show we’ve had in years! See operating train layouts in S, HO, N, and Z scales, plus full-size operating trains that you can ride and photograph during the day. Take a ride on some railroad motor cars operated by members of the Red Springs & Northern Foundation, and more! Tour some private railroad cars and explore the museum exhibits during your visit. On Saturday only, take a ride in a vintage caboose at the rear of a special photo freight train. It’s fun for the whole family! To purchase tickets, visit our website at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/train-show/. #MuseumThatMovesYou #Trains #TrainShow #ModelTrains
NCTM_FireworksSQUARE_final
🎆🚂🎆 SAVE-THE-DATE! Join the N.C. Transportation Museum July 2, 2022 for the first annual Fireworks Over Historic Spencer Shops! The fireworks show will begin at 9:15 p.m. with other activities from 7 - 9:30 p.m. Also, on display during the event will be Freightliner’s 2022 Ride of Pride and Western Stars semi-trucks. Activities to include balloon twister, DJ music, corn hole, and other lawn games. Guests are invited to take a ride in a WWII era Dodge Weapons Carrier (small fee). All other activities and admission is free. #Fireworks #Frieghtliner #WesternStar #RideOfPride #IndependenceDay
NCTM_VolunteerFacebook
In honor of National Volunteer Week we wanted to celebrate our wonderful volunteers! Without their selfless dedication Historic Spencer Shops would not be the beautiful place it is today. Thank you volunteers for helping us turn the N.C. Transportation Museum into the Museum That Moves you! #Volunteer #VolunteerAppreciation #Volunteering #Community #GiveBack
🔴 Join us LIVE at the N.C. Transportation Museum with the Easter Bunny as we talk about the eggciting activities coming up this weekend and next. Get tickets for the Easter Bunny Express on our website at www.nctransportationmuseum.org/easter-bunny-express.
🌷🐰🚂🚞🚞 Come visit us in April & May to ride the train and enjoy the beauty of springtime at the museum. Find details in the video about additional train rides and hours offered during Easter week. Book tickets in advance on our website at nctransportationmuseum.org. #spring #springtime #trains #trainride #Easter #EasterBunny #FamilyFriendly #JustForKids
Tractors & Trains - April 1 & 2, 2022
Tractors & Trains and fun... oh my! We hope to see you this weekend at the museum. Get tickets at https://nctransportationmuseum.org/tractors-and-trains #tractor #trains #FamilyTime #FamilyFun #ThingsToDoWithKids #VisitRowanCounty
Have you purchased your tickets yet for the Easter Bunny Express on April 9-10 and 15-16? 🐰 Hop along and buy them before they become limited. Learn more about this event and purchase tickets online at www.nctransportationmuseum.org/easter-bunny-express. #visitnctm #visitrowancounty #visitnc #familyfriendly #thingstodowithkids #easter #easterbunny #egghunt
St. Patricks Day Train Ride
Wear your green and bring your Irish cheer! Climb aboard our St. Patrick’s Train on March 12! Enjoy a happy (half) hour, appetizers, wine, and beer in the museum, and board the train for an Irish-inspired meal while you roll down the tracks listening to live music! Guests will also take home a souvenir glass beer mug. You’ll be greening from ear to ear aboard this train! 🍀🍺 For more information or to purchase your tickets, visit our website: https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/st-patricks-day-train-ride/ #StPatricksDayTrainRide #MuseumThatMovesYou
Wine & Dine on the Rails
Join us for an evening of elegance and romance for our annual Wine & Dine on the Rails event on February 12 and 13! 🍷 This special event features a cocktail hour inside the museum followed by a leisurely train ride around our 60-acre historic site, and a three-course meal served aboard the train. To learn more and to purchase your tickets, please visit our website below: https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/wine-and-dine/ #MuseumThatMovesYou #WineandDineOnTheRails
Pocket Watch
The employees of the Long Island Rail Road presented this pocket watch, now in the collection of the North Carolina Transportation Museum, to Samuel Spencer upon his retirement as General Superintendent of the Long Island Railroad on October 11th, 1879. Samuel Spencer would carry this watch throughout his career, including as the President of Southern Railway. As the first President, the newly formed shops and the adjacent town where the North Carolina Transportation Museum is located today were named in his honor. It is even believed that this was the watch he was carrying at the time of the train wreck that took his life in 1906. Made by Edouard Perregaux of Le Locle, Switzerland, this pocket watch stands up to the promise made on its warranty as a perfect timekeeper, still keeping time at 145 years old! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/ #NCLearn #MuseumThatMovesYou
Winter Holiday Train Rides!
Looking for something to do with the kiddos while they’re off from school this week? Bundle up and journey to the museum for our special Winter Holiday Train Rides – this week only! Now through Friday, we are open and offering rides at 10 and 11 a.m., 1 and 2 p.m. Book your tickets easily online at https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/winter-holiday-train-rides/ Tickets are only $12 for adults, $10 for seniors/military, and $8 for children. If you’re a member or have a child 2 and under your ride is free! We can’t wait to see you as we wrap up the holiday season and look forward to a promising new year! #WinterHolidayTrainRides #MuseumThatMovesYou
The Polar Express Train Ride Experience
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride has a limited amount of tickets left! You can purchase your tickets for this magical ride for the remaining available dates and times December 14-16. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas! *Ticket availability is subject to change. For questions regarding tickets, please call 704-469-5231 for assistance. https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/the-polar-express-train-ride/ #ThePolarExpressTrainRide #MuseumThatMovesYou
Polar Express
It's the most wonderful time of the year!❄️🚂🎅 Especially with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in Spencer, NC! Purchase your tickets to this magical train ride happening November 21, & 26-28, and December 3-5, 9-12, & 14-23! With that being said...“Well, are you coming?” Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers are entertained by a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic, The Polar Express. Upon arrival at the North Pole, passengers deboard to watch Santa present the first gift of Christmas. Before exiting the train at Candy Cane Lane, all passengers who BELIEVE will receive their own sleigh bell. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas! https://www.nctransportationmuseum.org/the-polar-express-train-ride/ #THEPOLAREXPRESS™TrainRide #MuseumThatMovesYou
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The N.C. Transportation Museum at Historic Spencer Shops
We are the museum that moves you! This family-friendly place is a 60-acre site filled with interesting exhibits and special events. Four large exhibit buildings represent the remaining structures of the historic Spencer Shops, once Southern Railroad's largest steam locomotive repair facility on the east coast. The Bob Julian Roundhouse, the largest remaining operational roundhouse in North America, is filled with locomotives and rail cars of the past. The Bumper to Bumper exhibit in the Flue Shop houses vintage and antique vehicles from the early 1900s to the 1960s. The massive Back Shop houses even more vintage cars, the restoration of the Piedmont Airlines DC-3, and special events. The Master Mechanic’s Office is home to the Gift Station and traveling exhibits. The museum is a source of education and fun for the young and old. There’s plenty to see and do. Start your visit at Barber Junction Depot and take the on site train ride. Enjoy big special events, like our Fire Truck Festival, Day Out With Thomas™, or take THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. There's something for everyone to enjoy. Want even more? Consider volunteering or become a member of the N.C. Transportation Museum!
Nearby museums
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North Carolina Transportation Museum
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NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures
4th Street -
28159
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28159
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Depot Street, Salisbury
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N Main Street, Salisbury
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108 Elmwood Drive, Salisbury
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South Main Street, Granite Quarry
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Lexington 27295
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Science and Technology Made Simple
Lexington 272956799 -
Weaver Road, China Grove
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Historic Gold Hill, North Carolina
Saint Stephens Church Road, Gold Hill -
Davidson County Historical Museum
S Main Street, Lexington -
Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultur
Kingston Drive, Kannapolis -
The Cinematic's Museum of North Carolina
Kannapolis 28081
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😳😳😎😁
We Love this History!!
Thank you N.C. Transportation Museum !!
City Barber Shop Carthage, NC
Susa Hibachi Grill of Carthage
Town of Carthage, NC
The Market 107
Creative Fibers Carthage
Watering Can Wines
Love You More - Home Decor
The Tyson Sinclair
SkullKraft
We Love this History!!
Thank you N.C. Transportation Museum !!
City Barber Shop Carthage, NC
Susa Hibachi Grill of Carthage
Town of Carthage, NC
The Market 107
Creative Fibers Carthage
Watering Can Wines
Love You More - Home Decor
The Tyson Sinclair
SkullKraft
𝙎𝘼𝙑𝙀 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝘿𝘼𝙏𝙀! Choo-Choo! All aboard the N.C. Transportation Museum Express Train ride with the Easter Bunny in back! Details: https://bit.ly/3mOizLH
Transportation enthusiasts of all ages should mark their calendars for 🚜 Tractors & Trains 🚂 at the N.C. Transportation Museum next month! This massive event will display everything from tractors, trains, antique farm equipment, to farm life demonstrations, and more.
🚜🚂 Tractors & Trains - April 14 & 15, 9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Discover all there is to look forward to at Tractors & Trains 2023:
>>https://buff.ly/3LcLlzK
🚜🚂 Tractors & Trains - April 14 & 15, 9 A.M. - 3 P.M.
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Discover all there is to look forward to at Tractors & Trains 2023:
>>https://buff.ly/3LcLlzK
Wind & Wings is coming to the N.C. Transportation Museum next weekend - March 24 & 25! ✈️ Discover the science of flight and join them for their Scouts BSA Aviation day on March 25!
🐰 Hop on board a train this Easter at the N.C. Transportation Museum for the 🚂 Easter Bunny Express! This well-loved event is the perfect way to celebrate together with the family. From egg hunts, games & activities, to photo ops with the Easter Bunny himself, this is one event this spring that you won't want to miss!
🐰🚂 Easter Bunny Express - April 1 & 2, 7 & 8
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Read more about all the fun you can expect at this event:
>>https://buff.ly/42dPFoC
🐰🚂 Easter Bunny Express - April 1 & 2, 7 & 8
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Read more about all the fun you can expect at this event:
>>https://buff.ly/42dPFoC
Here's celebrating you, women of Spencer! Pictured below are Alderwomen Patti Secreast and Pat Sledge, and we also thank the many women on Town staff, appointed boards, and within the community for your contributions... past, present, and future! Every Town department has women on staff, including Spencer Fire Department, Spencer Police Department, Spencer Public Library, Public Works, and Town Hall. Our Historic Preservation Commission and Community Appearance Commission are chaired by women, and many women are in community business, education, and leadership roles such as NC Museum of Dolls, Toys & Miniatures, N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer Woman's Club, North Rowan Elementary, North Rowan Middle, North Rowan High School, Meals on Wheels of Rowan.
Spencer would not be what it is without each of you and your efforts!
Spencer would not be what it is without each of you and your efforts!
If you've never taken the chance to join the N.C. Transportation Museum for a traveling tour, now's your time to jump on the opportunity. On April 19, travel with the museum from Salisbury to Raleigh by rail. 🚆 Hop on board and get lost while taking tours of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina Museum of History and the State Capitol.
🚆 Traveling Tour: Salisbury to Raleigh by Rail
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Read more about what you can expect from this original tour:
>> https://buff.ly/3ZMRHdi
🚆 Traveling Tour: Salisbury to Raleigh by Rail
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Read more about what you can expect from this original tour:
>> https://buff.ly/3ZMRHdi
Have a good breakfast while enjoying great memories of the Streamliners of Spencer event with my Streamliners at Spencer laminated placemat. See my placemats at customtrains.org. N.C. Transportation Museum
Many thanks to Bruce Alexander for sharing this photo he took of Doyle McCormack and me meeting at Streamliners at Spencer in 2014! N.C. Transportation Museum
On March 25, join the N.C. Transportation Museum for ✈️ Wind & Wings: The Science of Flight ✈️ At this one-of-a-kind event, you and your fellow aviator enthusiasts will get to experience high-flying machines, speakers, demos, aviation groups and more fun activities including wind tunnel experiments, 'Wright Stuff' flight simulators, a Novant Med Flight helicopter and much more.
Find out more and plan your trip to the N.C. Transportation Museum by clicking the link below:
>> https://buff.ly/3EV7sGU
Find out more and plan your trip to the N.C. Transportation Museum by clicking the link below:
>> https://buff.ly/3EV7sGU
Big News!! 😍😍😍
Genesee Valley Transportation Co., Inc. has reached an agreement to acquire Nickel Plate #190, one of only two ALCO PA locomotives remaining in the United States. This December, 1948 graduate of ALCO's Schenectady, NY plant first ran for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe as its . After being traded to General Electric, it was sold to the Delaware & Hudson as that carrier's #18, where it pulled passenger trains such as the Adirondack & Laurentian.
During its time on the D&H, the locomotive could be found on the point of excursion trains with any number of her three sister units (the carrier had a fifth, late of the New Haven, which was used as a parts source and later scrapped). It was also seen in New Jersey and southeastern New York State on sister railroad Erie Lackawanna, during the Dereco-era when both carriers--indirectly owned by the Norfolk & Western--would periodically swap power including D&H's PAs and EL's E8s.
A big change came about when #18 and her sisters were rebuilt by Morrison-Knudsen as "PA4s" which included new ALCO 251 prime movers and significant upgrades. Funded by New York State, the rebuilding was to facilitate use on the state-funded Amtrak incarnation of the Adirondack, where they could be found running between Albany and Montreal. But their time in this service would be short-lived as Rohr-built "RTL" Turboliners displaced them and the colorful D&H passenger equipment from the Adirondack's scenic New York-Montreal run.
Following a brief stint in Boston-area commuter service, #18 found her way to Mexico along with a group of D&H locomotives that included ALCO C628s and the company's three EMD SD45s. There, 18 and her fellow PAs each found themselves sidelined after wrecks and fires and were steadily cannibalized.
While PAs 17 and 19 both were restored to operation by Mexican railroad FNM, the 16 and 18 continued to languish until Nickel Plate Road fan and locomotive-lover Doyle McCormack struck a deal to repatriate and 18 to the USA. Today, #16 is under restoration to its original state as AT&SF 59L, while 18 went to Oregon for a loving restoration...as a Nickel Plate PA!
In 2014, carrying number 190 and wearing the colors of NKP's long-gone PA fleet, #18 made her way to North Carolina for N.C. Transportation Museum's "Streamliners at Spencer" event, where her photograph below was taken by All Aboard Media's Phil Bell.
We look forward to seeing her back east soon, again operating in New York and Pennsylvania on excursions and office car specials--this time for a growing shortline holding company whose hard work has been a shining light in Northeastern Railroading.
Thanks to Doyle and GVT for making this happen!!
Genesee Valley Transportation Co., Inc. has reached an agreement to acquire Nickel Plate #190, one of only two ALCO PA locomotives remaining in the United States. This December, 1948 graduate of ALCO's Schenectady, NY plant first ran for the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe as its . After being traded to General Electric, it was sold to the Delaware & Hudson as that carrier's #18, where it pulled passenger trains such as the Adirondack & Laurentian.
During its time on the D&H, the locomotive could be found on the point of excursion trains with any number of her three sister units (the carrier had a fifth, late of the New Haven, which was used as a parts source and later scrapped). It was also seen in New Jersey and southeastern New York State on sister railroad Erie Lackawanna, during the Dereco-era when both carriers--indirectly owned by the Norfolk & Western--would periodically swap power including D&H's PAs and EL's E8s.
A big change came about when #18 and her sisters were rebuilt by Morrison-Knudsen as "PA4s" which included new ALCO 251 prime movers and significant upgrades. Funded by New York State, the rebuilding was to facilitate use on the state-funded Amtrak incarnation of the Adirondack, where they could be found running between Albany and Montreal. But their time in this service would be short-lived as Rohr-built "RTL" Turboliners displaced them and the colorful D&H passenger equipment from the Adirondack's scenic New York-Montreal run.
Following a brief stint in Boston-area commuter service, #18 found her way to Mexico along with a group of D&H locomotives that included ALCO C628s and the company's three EMD SD45s. There, 18 and her fellow PAs each found themselves sidelined after wrecks and fires and were steadily cannibalized.
While PAs 17 and 19 both were restored to operation by Mexican railroad FNM, the 16 and 18 continued to languish until Nickel Plate Road fan and locomotive-lover Doyle McCormack struck a deal to repatriate and 18 to the USA. Today, #16 is under restoration to its original state as AT&SF 59L, while 18 went to Oregon for a loving restoration...as a Nickel Plate PA!
In 2014, carrying number 190 and wearing the colors of NKP's long-gone PA fleet, #18 made her way to North Carolina for N.C. Transportation Museum's "Streamliners at Spencer" event, where her photograph below was taken by All Aboard Media's Phil Bell.
We look forward to seeing her back east soon, again operating in New York and Pennsylvania on excursions and office car specials--this time for a growing shortline holding company whose hard work has been a shining light in Northeastern Railroading.
Thanks to Doyle and GVT for making this happen!!
Coming East Again. Famously acquired by Doyle McCormack after a lengthy career where it saw service for the ATS&F, Delaware and Hudson, and in Mexico, Santa Fe Alco PA-1 #18 is one of four known survivors of the PA-1 class. The selection of the Nickel Plate Road (NKP) colors and number for this unit was cited by Mr. McCormack as honoring the first engine that he had a cab ride in as a younger man in Conneaut, Ohio, where he grew up while his father was an NKP operator and dispatcher. The engine has lived at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center in Portland, Oregon recent years, and it was announced on Thursday, March 2, 2023, that an agreement had been reached and locomotive was acquired by Genesee Valley Transportation Co., Inc. to complete its restoration to active status. It was on display at the N.C. Transportation Museum during the "Streamliners At Spencer" event on May 29, 2014 in Spencer, North Carolina, the only time that this engine has been east of the Mississippi since being restored.
Full resolution pic and prints: https://www.riverrailphoto.com/dl/e5a8565ee
More details from Railfan & Railroad Magazine: https://railfan.com/genesee-valley-transportation-acquires-famous-alco-pa/
Full resolution pic and prints: https://www.riverrailphoto.com/dl/e5a8565ee
More details from Railfan & Railroad Magazine: https://railfan.com/genesee-valley-transportation-acquires-famous-alco-pa/
The N.C. Transportation Museum, located in the town of Spencer, continues to be one of Rowan County’s top attractions. The museum saw 144,321 visitors attending in 2022 for a variety of special events and educational experiences. Make a plan to visit the museum that moves you when you
Join the N.C. Transportation Museum for "Steam Over Spencer" - an up close and personal, live steam model train experience! Steam Over Spencer will feature a variety of locomotives & railroad cars in various scales that are powered by live steam. Watch these models in action this weekend at .
🚂 Steam Over Spencer, March 2-4, 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Find out more about Steam Over Spencer on our site:
>> https://buff.ly/3SrnmOO
Photo by the N.C. Transportation Museum
🚂 Steam Over Spencer, March 2-4, 9 A.M. - 5 P.M.
📍 N.C. Transportation Museum, Spencer, N.C.
Find out more about Steam Over Spencer on our site:
>> https://buff.ly/3SrnmOO
Photo by the N.C. Transportation Museum
N.C. Transportation Museum
Norfolk Southern AS-416 #1616 at the N.C. Transportation Museum in Spencer, NC.