Museum Guide News

Battleship Cove has been providing the preservation of both the military heritage of the New England region and that of the United States since 1965. A non-profit memorial and museum located in Fall River, Massachusetts, veterans, families, schools, Scouts, and interested visitors from around the world have walked the decks of these historic vessels and viewed the legendary aircraft on display. With Five National Historic Landmark US Naval ships and other craft, Battleship Cove is America's Fleet Museum.  You will experience firsthand what it was like to serve on board a Navy warship in WWII and the Vietnam War era. ​ Beyond the history of these vessels is courage, honor, and patriotism that we invite you to learn more about as you explore how our military personnel served our nation! While America's Fleet Museum has been known for decades for our historic naval ships, our fleet of aircraft are both iconic and prominent in American aviation.  Centered on helicopters, our collection includes two Vietnam War combat veterans and two of the first drone unmanned aerial vehicles used by the military! Battleship Cove presents and maintains a diverse number of exhibits to complement our ships, aircraft, and mission.  We are always expanding and updating these displays to enhance our educational outreach and to provide the visitor with a fun learning experience. Some of our exhibit highlights include: National PT Boat Museum, As home to the National PT Boat Museum, Battleship Cove displays the world's largest collection of PT boat artifacts and memorabilia. Admiral Arleigh Burke National Destroyer Museum: USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. is home to the Admiral Arleigh Burke National Destroyer Museum. Here's a link to more exhibits and inforamtion:  https://www.battleshipcove.org/exhibits We also have a number of events coming up this year – for a full calendar click here: https://www.battleshipcove.org/events. You also have an opportunity to schedule event with us too!  We invite you to learn more about these aircrafts, ships and experience them in person! The Battle Ship Museum is a unique destinatiin for all ages and famililes. We look forward to seeing this year!  https://www.battleshipcove.org/    

Top five reasons to visit the EAA Aviation Museum™ in Oshkosh, WI! Walk through aviation’s history. The restoration, preservation, and operation of vintage aircraft have been part of EAA since the very beginning. Discover airplanes used in aviation’s early days, including a tribute to the Wright brothers. Get close to classic aircraft and antique artifacts. Explore military aviation. The Eagle Hangar is a massive hall of aircraft and artifacts dedicated to the memory of those who served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. The airplanes include examples of Allied fighters and bombers, Army, Navy, and Air Force aircraft, and more. Discover aviation’s innovators. The Innovations Gallery highlights the airplanes and their pilots who have broken dozens of world records. See Loving’s Love, an air racer that was designed and built by WWII veteran and double amputee Neal V. Loving. Get close to the full-size animated replica of SpaceShipOne, an experimental, private spacecraft that made three successful spaceflights. Observe the beauty of flight. Aviation is made up of more than airplanes and pilots. Photographers and artists have been part of the world of aviation from the beginning. Throughout the museum, there are historic photographs and works of art! Have fun with the whole family. Bring out your inner child in the Kid Venture Gallery, where you can enjoy a variety of interactive activities and exhibits. The centerpiece of this area is the Raptor Gallery, which focuses on some of the remarkable features of the world’s most advanced aircraft, the F-22 Raptor, and offers the opportunity to climb into the cockpit of our half-scale mockup! We look forward to welcoming you soon! EAA Aviation Museum is located at, 3000 Poberezny Rd., Oshkosh, WI -  https://www.eaa.org/eaa-museum  

In early 1959, the Gates Memorial Library in Port Arthur, TX acquired important historical items, including the first American flag to fly over Port Arthur.  At that time the need for a Museum was evident to many people.  In 1964, the State of Texas chartered the Port Arthur Museum.  The Museum soon outgrew its location and was moved to the Merchant’s National Bank. In 1980, it was relocated again to a wing of the Gates Memorial Library, but that space quickly filled as well. So, in 1987, the Board of Directors adopted a plan to broaden the scope of the Museum to encompass the entire Gulf Coast region. By 1990, the Society had acquired the present Museum building.  Built in 1963, it had formerly served as the First National Bank.  Permanent Exhibits occupy the first two floors, The Museum houses its collections in the bank’s formidable vaults. Between 1991 and 1994, the bank was renovated and Southwest Museum Services began installing exhibits. The Museum of the Gulf Coast opened its doors on July 2, 1994. ​Today - with an increasing emphasis on educational outreach, the Museum hosts thousands of children for school tours, programs, and a summer camp focusing on environmental stewardship.  The Museum also offers “Family Fun Days."  In addition, the Museum serves as a resource for archival documents and photographs for academic researchers as well as local, national, and international media (link to collections). ​The Scope of Exhibits cover 39,000 square feet, containing many exhibits which capture the essence of life along the Upper Gulf Coast. Visitors marvel at the 125-foot mural depicting the area's history from the prehistoric era to the discovery of oil at Spindletop.  ​The Hall of Fame galleries highlight local musicians, athletes, and notable people who have achieved national or international recognition such as Janis Joplin, the Big Bopper, Jimmy Johnson, Karen Silkwood, actress Evelyn Keyes, and artist Robert Rauschenberg.  The museum also includes a wide variety of temporary exhibitions in the Dunn Gallery. https://www.museumofthegulfcoast.org/halls-of-fame To learn about the Museum of the Gulf Coast and the coast’s rich history visit us soon and check us out online:  https://www.museumofthegulfcoast.org/ Address: 700 Procter St., Port Arthur, TX 77640  (Parking & Entrance in back) ​ ​    

Since 1906, the Northern Nevada Railway, in Ely, Nevada has been a logistics hub. Today a vibrant museum experience that takes you inside the inner workings of a railyard. The Museum, is the last of its kind, the sole survivor of a grand era in the Silver State. Now a National Historic Landmark, the Nevada Northern Railway Museum takes you back to a time when the iron horse ruled the rails. It is America’s best-preserved standard-gauge short line and a complete rail facility. In 1983 the railroad ran its last train. Citizens of the town concerned with the economic impacts of the loss of mining and the railroad approached Kennecott with the intent to acquire the railroad and open it as a tourist operation. Though a series of donations the Nevada Northern Railway Museum was formed. When visiting, see the first steam powered passenger excursion left the East Ely Depot Memorial Day weekend 1987 pulled by locomotive #40. You can actually take the Nevada Northern Railway's restored Fairmont Hy-Rail car out on the original Mainline track. This vehicle began life as a very cool 1956 Pontiac Chieftain station wagon. Fairmont converted many of these American family cars into utility vehicles... At the museum experience the thrill of operating a historic Doodlebug railcar with our Be the Engineer program! Take the controls and feel the power of this vintage self-propelled train as you navigate the rails of the Nevada Northern Railway. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for rail enthusiasts of all ages! You’ve heard the stories, read about it, or you’ve seen television programs like Hell on Wheels. But what was it really like to work on the railroad? Here’s your chance to spend a week and find out for yourself what Workin' on the Railroad really means. It’s Hands On... Looking for a unique place to hold your next event? School field trip coming up? Are you looking for a movie location with an authentic 1920's backdrop? Do you want to hold a family reunion aboard a moving train? Need a destination for a very memorable historic automobile rally? A fly-in location for a airplane owners club?Look no further. We can help you with all of this and more. So come and check us online and visit us soon! https://nnry.com/ - 775-289-2085  

The Permian Basin Petroleum Museum, is a fascinating institution dedicated to preserving the history and educating visitors about the petroleum industry in the Permian Basin region. A visit to the Museum is an amazing journey through over 230 million years of history. Located in the heart of the Permian Basin, the Petroleum Museum offers interactive education and entertainment for adventurers of all ages. It showcases exhibits on the geology of the area, the technology used in oil exploration and extraction, the impact of the industry on the local economy and culture, and the individuals who have shaped its history. Visitors can explore interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and artifacts that highlight the development of the oil industry in the Permian Basin, which has been a significant contributor to the energy sector in the United States for over a century. From the early wildcatters to the modern innovations in drilling techniques, the museum provides an exciting and comprehensive look at the evolution of the industry and its influence on the region and beyond. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum often hosts special events, educational programs, and temporary exhibitions that go deeper into various aspects of petroleum exploration, production, and its impact on society and the environment. We are also proud to be a Blue Star Museum! The Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the oil industry or seeking to understand the role of energy in shaping the modern world. Please go to our website to see all our upcoming summer exhibits and more! https://petroleummuseum.org/  

Spring is just around the corner and Albacore Park, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, has officially reopened its doors for the 2025 season! Visitors from all around the world are able to take self-guided tours through the USS Albacore, a former Navy submarine built in 1953, decommissioned in 1972, and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Their newly remodeled gift shop is also now open, and a brand new maritime museum gallery will be making its debut, complete with a grand opening reception, on April 11th. Admission for the submarine tour is: $8.00 for children between 2-12; $14.00 for teens and adults; $10.00 for seniors, retired military and veterans; and free for all active duty military members. Please note that their new entrance is around the back. Group rates are also available, or take advantage of their new Membership program. Show your support for Albacore Park while receiving a fun array of benefits. Whether you’re seeking membership for yourself, your family, or your organization, their variety of levels offers something for everyone. Visit their newly designed website for more info on how to join, or you may sign up in person when you next visit. Albacore Park is currently open 7 days a week from 9:30am to 4:30pm, weather permitting. Hours will be extended in the summer. For further information about upcoming events, site rentals, sponsorship opportunities and more, please visit their website at: https://www.ussalbacore.org/

Come discover charm and history at the Northwest Carriage Museum! Home to an extraordinary collection of 19th-century horse-drawn vehicles and artifacts, the Museum is proud to be keeping history alive! With 64 vehicles and thousands of artifacts, visitors are amazed by the collection situated in the small town of Raymond, Washington. It’s no surprise that the Northwest Carriage Museum has become a premier destination for travelers exploring the PNW. Historical and educational, it's a great place for the whole family! Our interactive exhibits are fun for folks of all ages! We also have a unique gift shop, with a variety of books, old-fashioned toys, jewelry, and more! Since our doors opened in 2002, the museum has flourished, expanding from 21 vehicles to an impressive 64. The collection features luxury carriages, wagons, sleighs, hearses, a stagecoach, and a chuckwagon! Some of these stunning vehicles have appeared in timeless movie classics like “Gone with the Wind” and “The Little Princess.” As you explore, you’ll encounter thousands of artifacts, including vintage clothing, antique saddles, steamer trunks, chime bells, and carriage makers' tools. Year after year, the Northwest Carriage Museum attracts thousands of visitors, establishing itself as Pacific County’s top year-round tourist attraction. We invite you to “Come Get Carried Away” and experience the craftsmanship and artistry of a bygone era! The Museum is located at the junction of Hwy 101 and State Route 6 in Raymond, WA. Outside our doors is the pristine Willapa River and a beautiful park, perfect for a picnic. Within walking distance, you’ll find shops and restaurants. Call 360-942-4150 for questions and/or to schedule a tour for 6 or more people. Follow us on social media and check out https://www.nwcarriagemuseum.org/ ! The museum is open daily from 10 to 4 pm, and offers special admission for seniors, veterans, AAA members.

The Wisconsin National Guard Museum is dedicated to the history and heritage of the men and women of the Wisconsin National Guard. The Museum is affectionately known as "The Log Cabin". It was built in 1971 as an Officer's Club and was used for that purpose until 1983. It now houses historical exhibits portraying the history of the Wisconsin Army, the Air National Guard, and the famed 32nd "Red Arrow" Division. It is the oldest building on base. How to access the museum: We are located on the military base at Volk Field/Camp Williams. Because of this there are a few simple requirements for civilians who wish to visit: Everyone over the age of 18 must have a valid picture ID. Your vehicle will be searched to ensure the security and safety of the facility. No firearms or ammunition are allowed on base. Military or individuals with retiree cards are exempt from vehicle searches. Volk Field is located just north of I-90/94. Just pull up to the main gate (please use the far-left lane) and say you wish to visit the museum. From there security will give you directions to the museum. Our hours are: Wednesday - Saturday 9AM - 4PM and Sunday 10AM -2PM. We are closed in most federal holidays. Check us online: https://www.volkfield.ang.af.mil/Museum/  https://www.facebook.com/WNGMUSEUM/

The National Civil War Museum is one of the largest institutions in the world dedicated exclusively to the American Civil War. It stands out as the only museum of its kind that presents the Civil War from both Northern and Southern perspectives, offering insights from both military and civilian experiences. Through thoughtfully curated exhibits, the Museum not only chronicles key battles and campaigns but also illuminates the personal lives and stories affected by the conflict. Our mission is to serve as a national center for inspiring lifelong learning about the American Civil War, fostering a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in history. The National Civil War Museum is in Reservoir Park in Harrisburg, the oldest and largest municipal public park in the city. The building sits upon the highest point in the city, and the views from the site are simply lovely. Next to the building is our Walk of Valor, a ribbon of red brick that is symbolic of the bloodshed in war and bears the names of Civil War veterans honored by their surviving descendants. On the east side of the building opposite the entrance, you will find our Friends Walkway. We hope you will visit us this year as we are open year-round, Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Holidays: Regular business hours Closed: New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. 717-260-1861. https://www.nationalcivilwarmuseum.org/visit/      

Two hundred years after his birth, the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln continues to fascinate and inspire. Born into poverty on the edge of an untamed frontier, his rise from obscurity to greatness has become a symbol of the universal hope that we can all improve our circumstances in life. In 1932 The History of the Lincoln Memorial Shrine in Redlands, CA began! It was gifted by Robert and Alma Watchorn. The Lincoln Memorial Shrine was originally designed in an octagon shape by noted Southern California architect Elmer Grey. The construction of reinforced concrete was faced with Bedford Indiana limestone plates upon which are inscribed excerpts from Lincoln’s speeches. Today you can come see the newest exhibition, “Imitative Lincoln: Art Derived from Photographs.” Focusing on the ways artists have recreated Lincoln’s likeness from the photographs he sat for in his life, the exhibit will include a wide range of artistic techniques, from 19th century engravings to modern day mosaics, demonstrating how Lincoln has inspired artists over time. There is a Civil War photo album donated by a local family a few years ago that came with an interesting story. Featuring more than two dozen men of the 21st Connecticut Infantry regiment, the album was created by the regiment’s Captain E. Perry Packer. Captain Packer and his family moved to Santa Monica, California in the 1870s and assumed new identities. Why did they make such a drastic move? Who were the men included in the photo album?Come visit us and find out! Are you on the calendar committee for your group or organization? Do you need a history outing for your school group? Book your tour at the Lincoln Memorial Shrine! The Shrine offers guided tours for groups of 12 or more adults or school aged children, Tuesdays – Saturdays from 9:30am to Noon (parents and chaperones excluded from total for school tours).  Come visit us soon!  https://www.lincolnshrine.org/