The New England Wireless and Steam Museum
About The New England Wireless and Steam Museum
The New England Wireless and Steam Museum combines history, engineering and learning fun as they showcase the beginnings of radio and steam power! Kids, if you love to know how things work, then this might just be the museum for you!
This Rhode Island museum not only delves into the history of power as we know it today, but it also honors the engineers who achieved greatness in their lives, and served the nation by solving tough engineering problems!
Get ready to learn AND be inspired!
Did you know that in 1875, Rhode Island was actually the world center of the stationary steam industry? Today, it's also been said that the museum has the finest collection of Rhode Island made engines, along with the finest collection of original stationery steam engine drawings!
On display at the museum you can actually see large engines from the collection in the Merriam Steam Building, and smaller engines and models in the Mayes Building.
These buildings on site are also a fascinating insight into even more history! The Merriam Steam Building's first section dates back to 1971, and there's also a Wireless Station dating back to 1907!
Don't miss seeing the Meeting Hall which was built in 1822 - the bell in the steeple is originally from a New Haven Railroad steam locomotive!
Even more exhibits can be found in the Wireless Building, with artifacts and exhibits showcasing the span of electric communication from early electrical experiments, to telegraph, and TV!
A day of learning, history, innovation and technology at the New England Wireless and Steam Museum - it's time to get connected, kids!
Is this your business ? Claim it
Suggest editHow much does it cost?
Suggest editAdults $15.00
Children $7.00 ages 6 - 17
Free Under 6 years
Last Update 2023
Weather forecast
Activity reviews
The New England Wireless and Steam Museum FAQ’s
I’m Hungry! Can I get food at The New England Wireless and Steam Museum?
There is food at the Annual Yankee Steam Up event, otherwise grab something to eat before or after your visit!
Any top tips when visiting?
Check the website for the Summer Saturdays, as well as the hugely populat Yankee Steam-Up, held annually on a Saturday in the fall - the museum’s major event. The museum’s steam engines run, the sparks fly, there is food, and steam fills the fall air. Exhibitors bring steam and gas engines, old autos, Stanley Steamers, motorcycles, odd self-powered machines & launches, and wide variety of engineering models. An excellent family event.
Teachers corner
They open for groups with prior appointments, so give them a call to arrange!
Is The New England Wireless and Steam Museum fully accessible?
Give them a call to ask about the accessibility
Rate & Write a Review
Your rating *