Interpreting Industrial History - Museum Of Industry

The National Museum of Industrial History, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. It is housed in the former Electrical Repair Shop of the iconic Bethlehem Steel complex, a 100-year-old facility and the largest private brownfield site in America. The museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of America’s rich industrial heritage and celebrating the accomplishments of its workers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

The museum's themed permanent exhibits feature artifacts and displays that explore the evolution of American industry in areas such as machinery, iron and steel, silk and textiles, and propane and energy. In addition to these, the museum also hosts rotating exhibits that offer new insights and experiences.

This is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

The National Museum of Industrial History is housed in a former electric repair shop.

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A map of the Bethlehem Steel Plant.

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This exhibits honors the laborers — men and women — who gave their lives and sweat to humanize what might otherwise feel like cold, mechanical history.

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A display of Dr. Alice Hamilton, a pioneer in the field of occupational health and industrial toxicology. Her work often involved investigating dangerous trades and the effects of industrial poisons on workers.

Some of the abandoned building on the property.

The orange 1941 Whitcomb diesel-electric narrow gauge locomotive used to move railroad cars around the facility.

The portable steam engine made by the Frick Company in 1877, powered a chair-making plant.

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There are displays of various tools and machines.

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There are over 200 artifacts of American industrial history on display.  

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This is a display of a steelworker’s asbestos suit to protect them from the extreme heat. They were used from the 1920’s to late 70’s early 80’s. Prior to these suits, workers were wearing wool coats.

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The Empire State Building, The Hoover Dam, The Golden Gate Bridge, The Coney Island Wonder Wheel and many others were products of Bethlehem Steel.

Labor-related

The workers at Bethlehem Steel did not have lockers, instead they had these baskets which they would hang their belongings from the ceiling utilizing a pulley system in the Welfare Room. The chain would then be locked to metal tubes to keep the baskets suspended.

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Some of the equipment used in the textile industry.

Interpretive signs and interactive displays guide you through American manufacturing, from the textile mills of the 1800s to the steel giants of the 20th century.

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A jacquard Loom is one of the numerous looms and spinning wheels on display here.

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Activism and Social Reform

What you should know:

• Admission can be purchased on site.

• Limited free parking is available at the site. There is additional free parking nearby at the SteelStacks.

• Public restrooms are available.

• Check website for days and hours of operation, and if there are any special events.

• There are additional specialty tours you can purchase.

• You could spend up to 1-1.5 hours exploring here, depending on your level of interest.

• People are friendly and informative.

Location: 602 E 2nd Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015

For more information: National Museum of Industrial History

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