These days, it's easy to take for granted the fact that we can hop in the car when we need to go to the store, or even take an airplane to a whole different part of the world! The Virginia Museum of Transportation shows us what it took to develop these life-changing technologies, as well as teaching us what transportation was like in the past. Below you'll find some tips on what you can expect to learn about here.
Learn About Cars and Railroads
One of the finest rail collections in the whole country is waiting for you at the museum. Over 50 exhibits showcase the profound impact trains had on Virginia's history. Some of the most interesting sites at the museum are the two Norfolk and Western steam-engines they have on display. Both impressive machines are fully refurbished so that you can see them exactly as they were back in the days, racing down the rails! There's also plenty of automotive history on display at the museum. Take a look at the inventions that revolutionized travel for people all over the world. Vintage models from the oldest horseless carriages to the mass-produced Ford Model T show you the roots that modern automobiles grew from. You'll see the progression technology took right up to the present-day vehicles we drive in our time.
Flying Through the Sky
Of course, these vehicles on the ground aren't the full story of the history of transportation: more and more of our travel has us soaring through the air. You'll get an idea of the roots of this modern marvel with a look at early aviation history. You'll see how Native American legends dreamed of humans flying someday, as well as seeing the early attempts at flight from ballooning pioneers and the famous Wright Brothers. That's not all you'll see from their 'Wings Over Virginia' collection. You'll learn about the history of aviation's uses within the military, as well as how first responders have used aircraft both historically and right up to the present day. One highlight is a look at Virginia's very first air ambulance service. There's also an intriguing look at the pioneering women in the field of aviation.
Sailing on the Ocean
Once you've perused the aircrafts, trains, and automobiles on display, take a look at the model ship exhibit featured here. The displays cover nautical history going from the early modern era right up to the mid-twentieth century. There's even an in-depth display looking at a historic luxury cruise ship, the SS United States.
Seeing all of this transportation history really shows you how far technology has come when it comes to getting us around. You'll see some of the finest products from those years of transportation development when you see the vehicles on our lot. Once you've seen the historical vehicles at the museum, you may have a new appreciation for our modern vehicles!
