PA Trolley Museum

LEGO® Engineering Camp
2024-06-17 09:00 - 2024-06-21 12:00 (America/New_York) | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Join us for a week of LEGO® themed engineering challenges! Explore the world of engineering and the forces of physics, then compete to build the tallest towers and longest bridges. Design a paper airplane launcher, construct a working claw, and race rubber band-powered cars and wind-powered boats. Finish the week off by constructing a giant chain reaction contraption.
This camp is for students between the ages of 9 – 12.
CAMP THEMES: Math, LEGO®, Engineering, Art, Science, History, Physics, Transportation
Camps run Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. All camps include behind-the-scenes tours, interactive guided tours of our collection of artifacts and historic streetcars, time to explore our brand-new 21,000 square foot Welcome and Education Center exhibit galleries, and rides on several of our fully-restored antique trolleys. Enroll your child in a program that sparks their interest in learning and a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity for your child to have a summer full of fun, exploration, new friendships and memories, and STEAM-fueled adventures!
COST

$150 Member / $175 Non-Member (Early Bird Special until January 31st)
$175 Member / $200 Non-Member after Feb 1st

Click Here To Register

LEGO® Camp
2024-06-10 09:00 - 2024-06-14 12:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
LIMITED SPACE LEFT!
Join us for a week of LEGO® themed building challenges, artistic creations, and fun! Learn about the world of engineering while building models and testing simple machines. Create a brick self-portrait, then try painting with LEGO® bricks! Investigate different modes of transportation, then plan and design a brick town and trolley park with the help of LEGO Coding Express®.
This camp is for students between the ages of 9 – 12.
CAMP THEMES: Math, LEGO®, Engineering, Art, Science, History, Physics, Transportation
Camps run Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. All camps include behind-the-scenes tours, interactive guided tours of our collection of artifacts and historic streetcars, time to explore our brand-new 21,000 square foot Welcome and Education Center exhibit galleries, and rides on several of our fully-restored antique trolleys. Enroll your child in a program that sparks their interest in learning and a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity for your child to have a summer full of fun, exploration, new friendships and memories, and STEAM-fueled adventures!
COST

$150 Member / $175 Non-Member (Early Bird Special until January 31st)
$175 Member / $200 Non-Member after Feb 1st

Check out our other summer camp offerings here!

Anything on Wheels
2024-06-09 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-06-08 10:00 - 16:00 | PA
“Anything on Wheels” is back – at our new campus at 1 Electric Way for the first time!
Saturday and Sunday, June 8 and 9, from 10am to 4pm, come see dozens of vehicles including antique and classic cars, special use trucks, construction vehicles, and even some vintage boats on trailers. You can also ride a variety of our beautifully restored, antique trolleys throughout the day, tour the Trolley Display Building, and see interactive exhibits in the new Welcome and Education Center!
The Museum welcomes those who would like to display a vehicle during the show; the parking lot opens at 9 AM. Pre-registration is appreciated but not required and there is no fee for exhibitors, though contributions are welcome. Exhibitors receive two complimentary admission tickets – please check in at the table when you arrive. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to take photos of their vehicles alongside a historic streetcar. Details will be handed out at the registration table!
Registration
Exhibitors: to let us know you’re coming, register here! (Or just show up!)
Tickets for museum and car show attendees may be purchased on the day of the event – advance tickets are not available.
Other details:

Los Gallitos food truck will be on site Saturday for lunch
Hott Dawgs food truck will be on site Sunday for lunch (menu of gourmet hot dogs, gourmet burgers, foot long corn dogs and french fries)
La! La! Lemonade will have hand-squeezed lemonade with classic and creative flavors available for purchase both days!
The Pittsburgh Garden Railway Society will have a layout both days
Saturday only: Historic trolley parades throughout the day (times TBA) narrated by one of our knowledgeable volunteers. See history in action and step inside our maintenance and restoration shop! (Watch your step!)
Saturday evening, 8 PM start: Sunset/night photo session. Streetcar-era vehicles welcome!
Sunday only: The Ohio Valley Community Band will perform at 2 PM!

This event is rain or shine.

Night photo session – vintage vehicles and trolleys
Join us for an evening of historic vehicles and photography! Several scenes with restored antique trolleys and vintage automobiles will be staged beginning at 8 PM for golden hour and sunset followed by a night shoot with a continuous light source. Scenes will feature a restored 1908 trolley depot, a brick-paved street, and automobiles alongside a streetcar.
The shoot will take place around the new Welcome and Education Center. Meeting location details to come!
Tickets are free but donations are encouraged. Photography clubs are welcome (non-commercial), as are reenactors and people with period clothing! Participants with vehicles, photographers, and other participants may register using the same form as exhibitors.

West Penn Trolley Meet
2024-06-09 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-06-08 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-06-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – New Address, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Held for the first time in the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum’s new Welcome and Education Center, the West Penn Trolley Meet is back for another year!
NEW for 2024, the North American Transit Historical Society’s annual Hoosier Traction Meet will take place the same dates at the museum (separate registration).

WHEN
Friday-Saturday, June 7-8, with optional PRT excursion on June 9!
Friday 10AM – 4PM
Saturday 10AM – 4PM
Sunday: Time TBA – PRT light rail trip (details TBA)! Museum open 10AM – 4PM for Anything on Wheels event

ABOUT THE MEET
The West Penn Trolley Meet is a meet-up for trolley/traction fans and model enthusiasts that happens every other year.
– Model railway vendors
– Traction memorabilia dealers
– Traction-themed layouts and models
– Presentations and demonstrations
– Special trolley operations
– Trolley parade (Saturday)
– Night time photo sessions (more info below)
– Hoosier Traction Meet (separate registration | more info )
– Tour our streetcar collection
– Unlimited trolley rides
– Anything on Wheels event June 8-9
– Food truck (lunch) and lemonade stand
– And more!

West Penn Trolley Meet Registration
REGISTER HERE for the West Penn Trolley Meet as an attendee!
(for Hoosier Traction Meet registration, see below)
(for vendor tables and exhibitors, see below)
Registration for the West Penn Trolley Meet is requested of attendees – even if you’re a PTM member! This helps us with our planning. The West Penn Trolley Meet is free for members. Discounted weekend passes will be available on site ($30 for 2 days, $40 for 3 days – does NOT include PRT excursion on Sunday). Registration is available online or by mail. Attendees are welcome to purchase tickets on site upon arrival!

Hoosier Traction Meet
For the Hoosier Traction Meet, PTM members receive a discount. For more information, see the 2024 Prospectus on the Hoosier Traction Meet website here.

Pennsylvania Trolley
Museum Members

Regular Price

One day (Advance)
$25
$45

All weekend (Advance)
$40
$60

One day (walk up)
$30
$50

All weekend (walk up)
$50
$70

REGISTER HERE for the Hoosier Traction Meet

VENDORS
REGISTER HERE – or print out this form and mail it in! This link is for both West Penn Trolley Meet and Hoosier Traction Meet Vendors.
Tables (6-foot) are $30 each. Each vendor receives 2 admission tickets to the event. Make sure to include any requests in the comments on the registration. Vendors are invited to set up at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 6 and 7:30 a.m. on June 7 (reach out if you need to access the museum at another time and we may be able to accommodate your request). The main event is June 7 and 8, but the Museum will be open for Anything on Wheels June 9 as well with lots of foot traffic, and vendors are welcome to keep their tables set up until 4 PM Sunday. Please register by May 20 for tables!
Note: The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum is handling registrations for all vendors – both for the West Penn Trolley Meet and the Hoosier Traction Meet.

EXHIBITORS
REGISTER HERE – or print out this form and mail it in!
Limited non-commercial 8-foot tables and space are free. Space will be given on a first register, first serve basis, with traction-themed layouts prioritized. Registration includes 2 admission tickets to the event. NOTE: Layouts, displays, and commercial tables will be mixed together in the same display areas. Please include a sketch and/or relevant measurements for any models, layouts, or special displays you plan to bring. Layout set-up will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 6 and 7:30 a.m. Friday, June 7. (Please reach out if you’d like access to the museum outside of those times and we may be able to accommodate your request.) The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Exhibitors please register by May 31.

NIGHT PHOTO SESSIONS
A night-time photo session will begin around sunset on both Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8. Hosted by Tom Pawlesh and Bill Monaghan, trolleys will be staged for photos with other historic vehicles. No pre-registration required. This shoot is open to PTM members, volunteers, vendors, exhibitors, and those who attended the meet.
Tom and Bill plan to use a continuous lighting source. Night photographers are requested to bring a camera and tripod.

SUNDAY EXCURSION
SOLD OUT – Wait list registration available
An optional Sunday morning – early afternoon excursion in Pittsburgh by light rail is planned in partnership with Pittsburgh Regional Transit. More details to come – this promises to be a fun railfan tour! Additional registration required. Transportation to the meeting point is on your own – PTM will help arrange carpools if needed (reach out to Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org). Registration is $50, or $40 for PTM members, and $25 for students (ID required).
REGISTER HERE for the PTM + PRT Light Rail Trip (Sold out as of April 10 – wait list available)

HOTEL INFO
We are working with three local hotels for this event.

For your convenience, a block of rooms has been reserved at Fairfield by Marriott, Washington Casino Area at 451 Racetrack Rd. Washington, PA, 15301 near the casino and outlet mall. When calling to make your reservation, please mention the Trolley Museum Block in order to receive a discounted rate of $119 per night plus tax. Please call (724) 223-5555 to make your reservation by May 4 or use this link. Group rate is valid 6/5-6/10. Rooms include a free breakfast and free parking.
We also have a block at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites at 810 Highlands Meadow Drive, Washington, PA 15301 also near the casino and outlet mall. Phone: 724-884-0556. When calling to make your reservation, please mention the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum and the West Penn Trolley Meet to receive a discounted rate of $98 per night plus tax or enter code WPT under Rate Preference –> Group Rate –> Group Code. Reserve by May 16. Rooms include a free breakfast and free parking.
We’re also working with HomeTowne Studios & Suites Washington by Red Roof at 2110 N Franklin Dr, Washington, PA 15301. Call the hotel front desk at (724) 884-0299 and mention the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum to receive the discounted rate of $69.89 plus tax (Sunday-Thursday) and $82.89 plus tax (Fridays and Saturdays). Jacuzzi rooms available for $15 upgrade! Rate is valid all of 2024. Rooms include a free breakfast and free parking.

Additional hotels with special rates have been organized by the Hoosier Traction Meet, including:

Comfort Inn Meadowlands (237 Meadowlands Blvd in Washington, PA). Phone (724) 746-9700. Rooms are available for Thu-Sun night, Jun 6-10. Check-in time is 3:00 PM with check-out no later than 11:00 AM. Rooms are available for $89 (single or double) plus tax. Rooms consist of two queen-size beds. Cut-off date for rooms at this rate is Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Mention that you are with The Hoosier Traction Meet.
Quality Inn & Suites (501 Racetrack Rd in Washington, PA) (formerly Microtel). Phone (724) 705-7676. Rooms are available for Thu-Sun night, June 6-10. Check-in time is 3:00 PM with check-out no later than 11:00 AM. Rate is $60 plus tax for two queen-size beds. Cut-off date for rooms at this rate is Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Mention that you are with The Hoosier Traction Meet.

FOOD TRUCKS
Food trucks will be on site with lunch for purchase.
Friday, June 7, 2024: All American Grill (Facebook)
Saturday, June 8, 2024: Los Gallitos (Website) (Facebook)
Sunday, June 9, 2024: Hott Dawgz (Website) (Facebook)
Saturday and Sunday: La! La! Lemonade will have hand-squeezed lemonade with classic and creative flavors available for purchase both days!

Trolleyology: Rails to Victory
2024-06-05 19:00 - 20:30 | PA
Join PTM staff, volunteers, and members for our Zoom series, Trolleyology! These programs feature Pennsylvania transit history topics and tales of our collection that you can experience from home. Registration is required but free of charge. Donations are welcome and encouraged.

Rails to Victory: Allied Rail Operations in Europe Before and After D-Day
June 5, 2024 – 7 PM ET – Presented by Hans Altena

REGISTER HERE

Without logistics, both warfare and liberation would be impossible. Such was the case in Europe in 1944, and the same is true today. An army is comprised of many parts: the army unit responsible for transportation on the American side was the Transportation Corps. It included transportation by road, water and rail. Rail transportation was organized in three divisions: the 1st, 2nd and 3rd MRS (Military Railway Services).
After the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 brought the war to American soil, the United States became fully involved in World War Two. The United States declared war on both Japan and Germany. America immediately began taking actions on many fronts to change the tide of the war on both the eastern and western fronts. American industry was mobilized on a massive scale to design and produce military vehicles, including a large amount of railway rolling stock. Commanders realized that the railroads would form the backbone of all military operations in the occupied territories. The enormous quantities of supplies that would be required to liberate the occupied territories could only be transported by rail to the constantly changing front lines. It was calculated that no fewer than 100,000 pieces of rolling stock would be required, understanding that local railway rolling stock could not be relied upon. In cooperation with the British War Department the production of the rolling stock began in January of 1942. This marked the beginning of an interesting and unique historical period.
Due to German destruction, many countries had an immediate need for railroad rolling stock, and transfers were made from the Allied military surplus stores located throughout Europe. The Dutch State Railways (Nederlandse Spoorwegen or NS) purchased various steam and diesel locomotives and cars from the Transportation Corps and the War Department through this channel. A well-known type is the Whitcomb diesel locomotive, two examples of which are now back in the Netherlands since 2018. Presenter Hans Altena played a significant role in the repatriation of the two locomotives. Additionally, Hans is the chair of the “Stichting 162” (162 Foundation) which has fully restored a War Department locomotive and several freight cars. Using various sources, including some that have only recently become available, Hans will present this often overlooked but very special chapter of railroad history.

This program will be recorded and available at a later date on the PTM YouTube channel.

Trolleyology presentations will continue on a regular or semi-regular basis. Interested in presenting? Email Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org! We’re specifically looking for programs related to the Trolley Era in general, Pennsylvania transit history, or stories about our collection. Please join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date with program announcements and other PTM news!
*For the best experience, we recommend downloading Zoom in advance.
NOTE: This is a virtual event

Trolleyology: Pittsburgh Streetcars: April 1971
2024-05-21 19:00 - 20:30 | PA
Join PTM staff, volunteers, and members for our Zoom series, Trolleyology! These programs feature Pennsylvania transit history topics and tales of our collection that you can experience from home. Registration is required but free of charge. Donations are welcome and encouraged.

Pittsburgh Streetcars: April 1971
5/21/2024 – 7 PM ET – Presented by David Warner

REGISTER HERE

In the spring of 1971, the Pittsburgh streetcar system was a mere shadow of its former glory, and it was about to shrink even more. For a high school student visiting the city for the first time, however, what remained was intoxicating, with plenty of activity. This show follows a teenage Dave around the South Hills as he rode and photographed the tired-looking, but incredibly fascinating remaining routes. Featured subjects include the single-track, rush-hour only operation between Castle Shannon and Mt. Lebanon, which is now part of the PRT Red Line, and the hilltop lines in Beltzhoover, Allentown and Knoxville, which had just over half-a-year left to run.
Dave is a retired U.S. Navy Commander. During his 20-year career he was the chief engineer of a nuclear-powered submarine and a member of the commissioning crew of the U.S.S. Albuquerque (SSN 706). He has worked in the passenger rail industry for over 27 years, and is recently-retired from the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority where he served as the Chief Vehicle Engineering Officer for nearly seven years.
Together with different co-authors, Dave has written four books about Amtrak subjects. The Metroliners (published in 2016) and Fifty Years of Amtrak Trains (2022) were created with Bruce Goldberg. Last year, Amtrak By the Numbers: 2 (a much-improved version of the 2011 Amtrak By the Numbers) was published with El Simon and Kevin EuDaly as co-authors. Dave’s first published photo graced the cover of the February 1976 issue of Traction and Models. It was an image of Pittsburgh’s “The Spirit of 1776” Bicentennial-painted trolley on Arlington Avenue.
Dave has lived in Wilmington, DE, for the past 27 years, with his wife Ann, and two cats. Through the years, Ann has remained the same, while various cats have come and gone. Dave and Ann have two sons, both of whom work at Lockheed Martin

This program will be recorded and available at a later date on the PTM YouTube channel.

Trolleyology presentations will continue on a regular or semi-regular basis. Interested in presenting? Email Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org! We’re specifically looking for programs related to the Trolley Era in general, Pennsylvania transit history, or stories about our collection. Please join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date with program announcements and other PTM news!
*For the best experience, we recommend downloading Zoom in advance.
NOTE: This is a virtual event

Street Fair
2024-05-19 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-05-18 10:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Step back in time at our electrifying street fair!
Imagine a bustling scene where street performers light up the sidewalks with their mesmerizing acts. Feel the heat as fire dancers set the atmosphere ablaze, marvel at stilt walkers towering above the crowd, be amazed by jugglers moving with jaw-dropping precision, witness magicians weaving enchantment, let mimes spark your imagination, and watch artists bring smiles with face painting, balloon art, and caricatures!
Groove to live music as you indulge in scrumptious treats from food trucks. Plus, explore booths from our beloved community partners, and don’t miss out on special activities for the little ones! And of course, take a ride on one of antique trolleys!
Mark your calendars for Saturday and Sunday, May 18th and 19th, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Don’t miss out on this sensational event that promises to transport you to a bygone era!
No advanced tickets, regular admission rates apply.

The New Roaring '20s Speakeasy!
2024-05-16 20:00 - 22:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – New Address, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
The Roaring ’20’s come alive at our Prohibition-era Speakeasy!
Sponsors: Wabtec & Washington Auto Mall/The Falconi Family of Dealerships
Cost: $100.00
Enjoy whiskey samplings from Liberty Pole, Red Pump, B&B distilleries and others while exploring our beautifully restored streetcars in the Trolley Display Building.
Be transported to the Trolley Era as you ride our antique trolleys and are entertained with music by Washington Jazz Society & DJ Cake.
Light refreshments provided by Bella Sera.

Roaring ’20’s attire encouraged!

*21+ event, ID checked at door

Buy Tickets

The New Roaring '20s Gala
2024-05-16 17:30 - 22:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – New Address, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Celebrate the “New Roaring 20’s” in style at our black-tie/Roaring 20’s attire (optional) dinner on May 16!
Presenting Sponsor: Wabtec
Cost: $250.00
Cocktails: 5:30 pm
Dinner: 6:30 pm
Dinner by Bella Sera
Music by the Washington Jazz Society
Speakeasy: 8:00 pm (included with dinner ticket)
Join us in the Trolley Display Building for light refreshments, whisky sampling, and live music!
Separate tickets for Speakeasy event are on sale for $100.
Buy Tickets

Vintage Communications Weekend
2024-05-05 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-05-04 10:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum – New Address, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Join us at the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum for a weekend of vintage communications! This event highlights the communications technology of the trolley era. Our regular admission rates are $20 for adults, $19 for seniors, and $15 for children 3-18. Children under 3 are free. Admission includes access to the event, the museum and its exhibits, the Trolley Display Building, and rides on vintage, restored trolleys.
What to See

Local amateur radio clubs will be setting up a special event station and inviting visitors to explore the historic (and modern!) world of ham radio. Test out your Morse code skills on a practice key!
Typewriter enthusiasts are invited to display their machines and to set up machines the public can use! We’ll have over two dozen machines as part of the event. The museum will host buy/sell/trade tables as well. Type a letter to send in the mail and test out the different fonts and feelings of these classic machines
You’ve heard of a printing press – now’s your chance to test one out! Wayne and Nancy Young from the print shop in Portersville will be sharing and demonstrating their printing press
See (and hear!) a collection of working antique radios – local collector Ben Costello will showcase his collection of Catalin tabletop radios, similar to the Bakelite radios
On Saturday only, see a WWII-era Jeep with a back seat command set radio
Experience the sounds of a Victrola and observe the bells of antique phonographs
See a selection of antique telephones through the ages from the collection of Dave Grill

Also Invited:
Do you collect a particular mode or method of vintage communication? Please reach out to Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org if you’d be willing to share/display/showcase your…

antique radios
antique telephones
antique televisions
vintage cameras
newspapers
recording or broadcasting equipment
…and other types of communication!

Or, let us know you’re interested in attending or exhibiting here! Exhibitors who register in advance are eligible for free or reduced admission.
More Information about our Exhibitors:
Printing Press: Come see the Steam Show Print Shop from the Northwest PA Steam Engine and Old Equipment Association! We will be demonstrating how hand-set type was used in the 1700s to the mid 1900s. Books, magazines, newspapers, wedding invitations, and other printed materials were created using this technique. Print your own souvenir on our Kelsey table top press!
Amateur Radio: WA3COM is coordinating and organizing the amateur radio communications for this event, including the special event station. The station’s call sign is W3T – ham radio operators are encouraged to work us on the air! Visitors can see a functioning amateur radio station, and an amateur radio operator will help you try to make a radio call! Representatives from the Washington Amateur Communications (WA3COM) and Steel City Amateur Radio Club (W3KWH) will be on hand to answer all of your ham radio-related questions! Modes demonstrated will include CW (Morse code), SSB (phone), and FT8 (digital).
Jeep Command Set Radio: Volunteer Don Grimm will exhibit his WWII-era Jeep and the SCR-506-A – a medium-power AM set designed for installation in tanks, amphibian trucks, personnel carriers, and other vehicles to provide continuous wave (CW) and voice communication from one vehicle to another or between these vehicles and airplanes or base stations. Saturday only!
Typewriters: Enthusiasts from around the region will be bringing more than two dozen typewriters – some for display-only, some for the public to use, and some for selling! If you’ve had a typewriter in your house for a long time and you’re wondering what to do to fix it, feel free to bring it in – experts will be on site!

Hotel Info

This year, we’re working with HomeTowne Studios & Suites Washington by Red Roof at 2110 N Franklin Dr, Washington, PA 15301. Call the hotel front desk at (724) 884-0299 and mention the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum to receive the discounted rate of $69.89 plus tax (Sunday-Thursday) and $82.89 plus tax (Fridays and Saturdays). Jacuzzi rooms available for $15 upgrade! Rate is valid all of 2024. Rooms include a free breakfast and free parking.
Special rates for museum-goers are also available at the Quality Inn & Suites (501 Racetrack Rd in Washington, PA) (formerly Microtel). Phone (724) 705-7676. Rates vary by season but are typically $60-$75 per night plus tax – mention the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum when asking about special rates.
There are many other hotels nearby along Racetrack Road within 10 minutes of the Museum and elsewhere in Washington, PA within a 15 minute drive.

The STEAM Station
2024-05-04 10:00 - 15:00 | PA
This event is being offered as part of Remake Learning Days in Southwestern Pennsylvania!
Dive into all five areas of STEAM with interactive activities, demos, and experiments at stations spread throughout the whole museum!

This first-ever of its kind event is geared towards students and their families. It is a family-friendly event designed to engage students in all five areas of STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Each station will be focused on one of these specific content areas and will have various hands-on interactive challenges, demonstrations, and experiments.

Science: Test anything and everything, including toy cars, coins, playdough, and even fruits and veggies to see what kinds of objects are conductive with the power of Makey Makey Technology and the Conductivity Tester 5000!
Technology: Explore how everything from robots to AI is changing the world of transit, then practice plotting out an automated transit route through a tiny town using Sphero Robots!
Engineering: Discover communication technology used throughout time, and dive into the nuts and bolts of how they work!
Art: Investigate color theory and patterns while getting messy with spin-art!
Math: 66, 4004, 1738 – what do those numbers mean and where do they come from? Find out on an exciting scavenger hunt through the Trolley Display Building!

Advanced tickets are NOT required. This event is included with general admission and is part of Remake Learning Days. Members receive free admission!

Registration is NOT required, but we’d love to have an estimate on how many people are planning on attending this event. Please let us know if you’ll be joining us by filling out this quick form.

Trolleyology: Cincinnati's Incomplete Subway
2024-04-23 19:00 - 20:30 | PA
Join PTM staff, volunteers, and members for our Zoom series, Trolleyology! These programs feature Pennsylvania transit history topics and tales of our collection that you can experience from home. Registration is required but free of charge. Donations are welcome and encouraged.

Cincinnati’s Incomplete Subway
4/23/2024 – 7 PM ET – Presented by Jake Mecklenborg

REGISTER HERE

Cincinnati, OH is infamously known as the home of the longest abandoned subway tunnel in the United States. Local historian Jacob Mecklenborg, author of Cincinnati’s Incomplete Subway – The Complete History, will present on the project’s genesis, construction, and abandonment, as well as 1930s-era proposals to convert the unused rapid transit line for use by the Cincinnati Street Railway. The presentation will include new photos and other information collected since the book’s publication in 2010.

This program will be recorded and available at a later date on the PTM YouTube channel.

Trolleyology presentations will continue on a regular or semi-regular basis. Interested in presenting? Email Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org! We’re specifically looking for programs related to the Trolley Era in general, Pennsylvania transit history, or stories about our collection. Please join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date with program announcements and other PTM news!
*For the best experience, we recommend downloading Zoom in advance.
NOTE: This is a virtual event

Personal Management & Financial Literacy
2024-04-20 09:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
This merit badge workshop is open to any youth in grades 6th – 12th grade and is designed to help BSA scouts meet requirements for the Financial Literacy Merit Badge. It is strongly recommended that participants be in at least 9th grade before taking this workshop. This workshop is designed to help Scouts requirements for the following badges:

BSA Personal Management requirements. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 10 (Eagle Scout required!)
Girl Scout Cadette Budgeting requirements 1-5
Girl Scout Senior Buying Power requirements 1-5
Girl Scouts Ambassador On My Own requirements 1-5

BSA Scouts will be responsible for the following pre-requisite: 1, 2, and 8. Scouts must choose an item considered a major expense and come up with a plan to save money as a family for the purchase, prepare a budget reflecting their expected income over a period of 13 weeks, then track and record their actual income, expenses, and savings for that 13-week period, and track a “To Do” list of activities and tasks over a 7-day period for time management tracking. If Scouts do not complete these requirements ahead of time, Scouts must follow up with the counselors before a signed blue card will be issued.
**Participants should pack a lunch!**
BSA Personal Management Requirements
BSA Personal Management Workbook

Click here to register for Personal Management and Financial Literacy

BSA Railroading
2024-04-06 13:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
This merit badge workshop is open to any youth in grades 6th – 12th grade and is designed to help BSA scouts meet requirements for the Railroading merit badge. We will be covering ALL requirements for this merit badge! While there are no pre-requisites, we strongly encourage participating Scouts to review the Railroading Merit Badge Requirements and workbook prior to the workshop. Requirements 8b parts 1 and 2 will be fulfilled by visiting the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum. Scouts should bring a camera or drawing materials.
BSA Railroading Requirements
BSA Railroading Workbook

Click here to register for BSA Railroading

BSA Collections
2024-04-06 09:00 - 12:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
This merit badge workshop is open to any youth in 6th – 12th grade and is designed to help BSA scouts meet requirements for the Collections merit badge.
Due to the nature of this badge, it is encouraged for Scouts to complete as much of the workbook and requirements ahead of time as possible. Scouts will be required to bring in pictures, videos, and/or small pieces of their own private collection to share during this workshop.
Note that BSA requirements prohibit coin and stamp collections from counting towards this badge, as they are each a separate badge.
This workshop is primarily designed to allow Scouts to come together, share their collections and hard work with other Scouts, and meet with merit badge counselors for this badge. Scouts will be responsible for completing requirements 1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, and 6. We will also be completing requirements 5b and 7 during the workshop. Scouts will also have the opportunity to work on parts of requirements 4 and 5 during the workshop.
As part of Requirement 7, Scouts will get to learn about the various collections at our museum, including the restoration and preservation practices that happen here. Scouts will also have the opportunity to visit our Trolley Display Barn and go behind the scenes around other parts of the museum!
BSA Collections Requirements
BSA Collections Workbook

Click here to register for BSA Collections

Bunny Trolley
2024-03-30 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-03-29 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-03-24 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-03-23 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-03-22 10:00 - 16:00 | PA
Hop on over to the Museum as we bring back one of our favorite events, “Bunny Trolley.” Ride a beautifully restored antique trolley to see the Bunny on March 22, 23, 24, 29, & 30. Ongoing activities include a Scavenger Hunt, Four-Leaf 4-H Club’s live rabbits, and a photo opportunity with the Bunny.
This event is sponsored by Sarris Candies.
This is a rain or shine event. Admission is $22 for adults, $21 for seniors, and $17 for children (3-18). Children under 3 are free. We encourage visitors to purchase tickets ahead of time. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Please note that we do not issue refunds for tickets for this event.
Buy Tickets Here

Trolleyology: Toronto Streetcars: Past, Present, and Future
2024-03-20 19:00 - 20:30 | PA
Join PTM staff, volunteers, and members for our Zoom series, Trolleyology! These programs feature Pennsylvania transit history topics and tales of our collection that you can experience from home. Registration is required but free of charge. Donations are welcome and encouraged.

Toronto Streetcars: Past, Present, and Future
3/20/2024 – 7 PM ET – Presented by Brian Doucet

REGISTER HERE

Toronto has North America’s largest streetcar network. Its 10 routes carry around 200,000 daily riders, and they are a ubiquitous sight throughout much of the city. This presentation will trace the early history of transit in Toronto, including the municipalisation of the streetcar system in 1921. Toronto had the largest fleet of new and used PCCs in North America. Though the network contracted after World War II, this was predominantly due to subway expansion, rather than bus replacement. The system was saved in 1972 in large part due to a small group of dedicated activists, leading to the development of new generation of streetcars and new lines. Today’s system features a mix of new, low-floor LRVs and legacy operating practices which means that Toronto’s streetcars, while iconic, are a slow way of getting around the city. Across southern Ontario, light rail is expanding as a new wave of transit investment is shaping development in one of North America’s fastest growing urban regions.
Throughout this presentation, we will weave the story of the streetcars with one of an ascendant city which transitioned from a modest, predominantly British and provincial city, to Canada’s leading metropolis, its global mega-region and one of the world’s most multicultural cities. This presentation will feature many images taken by the late John F Bromley, a Toronto- based streetcar enthusiast who travelled extensively to photograph trams and trolleys between the 1960s and 2019. As a bonus, we will end with some of his Pittsburgh images from the mid-1960s!

Dr. Brian Doucet is a Canada Research Chair and Associate Professor in the School of Planning at the University of Waterloo. His academic research focuses on processes of neighbourhood change, such as gentrification, as well as mobility and transportation. He has a lifelong interest in streetcars and urban transportation, and is the co-author (with his father, Michael) of the book Streetcars and the Shifting Geographies of Toronto: a visual analysis of change (2022, University of Toronto Press). Born and raised in Toronto, Brian lived in the Netherlands between 2004 – 2017. He now resides in Kitchener, Ontario.

This program will be recorded and available at a later date on the PTM YouTube channel.

Trolleyology presentations will continue on a regular or semi-regular basis. Interested in presenting? Email Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org! We’re specifically looking for programs related to the Trolley Era in general, Pennsylvania transit history, or stories about our collection. Please join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date with program announcements and other PTM news!
*For the best experience, we recommend downloading Zoom in advance.
NOTE: This is a virtual event

Museum Guide Training
2024-03-10 13:00 - 16:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Make the Trolley Era come alive!
Registration for this event is now closed. Please contact mmeer@patrolley.org with any questions or to be informed of future classes.
During their visits to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, guests have the chance to travel back in time to the wonders of the Trolley Era- when the bright lights and clanging bells of the trolleys filled the streets of America.
This experience would not be possible without our Museum Guides, who lead visitors on this journey through the decades. Join our team this Spring and help us bring the excitement of the past to life for our community. This is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys history, transportation, technology, education, or just having a fun time!
Training Info
Session Dates (Pick One):

Saturday, March 2, 10:00am to 1:00pm
Sunday, March 10, 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Each day as PTM guide looks a little bit different. Guides give tours of our historic Wexford Station and our trolley collection that’s 50+ cars and growing. They greet guests and answer questions about trolley history and daily happenings at the museum. They also might assist with educational programs as well as festivities at special events.
During Museum Guide Training, you’ll learn from our volunteers how to make each visitor’s museum experience the best one possible. The class will highlight important aspects of customer service and how to give a successful tour. Content-related materials will be provided along with other resources- there is no background knowledge necessary!
At the end of your session, you’ll be on your way to becoming an official Museum Guide. You’ll have the opportunity to shadow our experienced volunteers and practice until you’re ready to go. There’s no required time commitment for either your time in training or as an official guide- everything is at your own pace. Whether you volunteer once a week, or a couple times a year, we’ll be glad to have your help.
Museum volunteers must be 14 years of age or older to volunteer without a guardian present. To learn more about our family volunteer opportunities, please email mmeer@patrolley.org.
**Please be advised that all volunteers are required to have up-to-date PA State Clearances. Click here to view clearance instructions.**

Museum Guide Training
2024-03-02 10:00 - 13:00 | Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Electric Way, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Make the Trolley Era come alive!
During their visits to the Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, guests have the chance to travel back in time to the wonders of the Trolley Era- when the bright lights and clanging bells of the trolleys filled the streets of America.
This experience would not be possible without our Museum Guides, who lead visitors on this journey through the decades. Join our team this Spring and help us bring the excitement of the past to life for our community. This is a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys history, transportation, technology, education, or just having a fun time!
If you would like to get involved but cannot make it, please email mmeer@patrolley.org to be informed of future classes.
Training Info
Sign up with the following form: Museum Guide Application
Session Dates (Pick One):

Saturday, March 2, 10:00am to 1:00pm
Sunday, March 10, 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Each day as PTM guide looks a little bit different. Guides give tours of our historic Wexford Station and our trolley collection that’s 50+ cars and growing. They greet guests and answer questions about trolley history and daily happenings at the museum. They also might assist with educational programs as well as festivities at special events.
During Museum Guide Training, you’ll learn from our volunteers how to make each visitor’s museum experience the best one possible. The class will highlight important aspects of customer service and how to give a successful tour. Content-related materials will be provided along with other resources- there is no background knowledge necessary!
At the end of your session, you’ll be on your way to becoming an official Museum Guide. You’ll have the opportunity to shadow our experienced volunteers and practice until you’re ready to go. There’s no required time commitment for either your time in training or as an official guide- everything is at your own pace. Whether you volunteer once a week, or a couple times a year, we’ll be glad to have your help.
Museum volunteers must be 14 years of age or older to volunteer without a guardian present. To learn more about our family volunteer opportunities, please email mmeer@patrolley.org.
**Please be advised that all volunteers are required to have up-to-date PA State Clearances. Click here to view clearance instructions.**

New Operator Training
2024-02-24 - 2024-02-25 | West Campus- Pennsylvania Trolley Museum, 1 Museum Road, Washington, PA, 15301, United States
Registration for this event has now closed. Please contact mmeer@patrolley.org with any questions or to be informed of future classes.
This February, you’re invited to participate in our New Operator Training. This hands-on course will teach you how to operate our trolleys and start your process to qualify as a museum operator.
As a PTM operator, you’ll have the opportunity to make sure each visitor has an exciting journey back in time to the Trolley Era. Treat them to rides along our two-mile track on some of the many restored trolleys in our collection.
You’ll also have the chance to connect with our community of volunteers who share a passion for trolleys, history, and education. Scheduling is completely flexible. Operate once a week, once or month, or a couple times a year! We’ll be glad to have your help.
Training Info
Class Dates:

Saturday, February 24
Sunday, February 25
An additional training day to be scheduled with our instructors at your convenience

Attendance is required on both dates. Class will be held from 9:00 am to approximately 4:00 pm at our West Campus location at 1 Museum Road. Please bring a copy of your driver’s license and lunch for both days.
Materials will be provided, including a binder with an Operations Manual and other training info. If you’d like to get a head start, please reach out, and we’ll send you the materials! Interested operators should also please consider signing up to learn about ways to make sure each guest has a great visit at Museum Guide Training (offered both on March 2 and 10).
To participate in training, you must be 14 years of age and a current member of the museum. (Operators must select “Regular Membership” or any tier above, except for those currently in school, who may apply for “Student Membership.”) New operators must also complete their clearances (instructions here) before training.
In order to complete training and become an official operator, students must do the following: attend both days of group operator training, complete 1 day of individual training and 15 days of student operation (scheduled at your convenience), and pass a proficiency test.
Space is limited so RSVP today!
**Please be advised that all volunteers are required to have up-to-date PA State Clearances. Click here to view clearance instructions.**

Trolleyology: Beaver Valley Traction
2024-02-20 19:00 - 20:30 | PA
Join PTM staff, volunteers, and members for our Zoom series, Trolleyology! These programs feature Pennsylvania transit history topics and tales of our collection that you can experience from home. Registration is required but free of charge. Donations are welcome and encouraged.

Beaver Valley Traction
2/20/2024 – 7 PM ET – Presented by George Gula

REGISTER HERE

The first horsecars of the Beaver Valley Street Railway Company began running on July 4, 1885. Electric streetcar service started on December 5, 1891. Eventually, a number of companies would be created and merged into the Beaver Valley Traction Company which connected Morado Park, Beaver Falls, Beaver, Rochester, Freedom and Aliquippa, ending at the Edgeworth Borough line. The Philadelphia Company, which also owned Pittsburgh Railways, purchased the BVT and unsuccessfully attempted to link the two properties after being stymied by Sewickley and Edgeworth Boroughs. After it was turned loose on its own, the line experienced ever worsening circumstances. The last car ran on August 10, 1937. This program will show the rise and fall of the streetcar in Beaver County from 1885 to 1937.

This program will be recorded and available at a later date on the PTM YouTube channel.

Trolleyology presentations will continue on a regular or semi-regular basis. Interested in presenting? Email Kristen at kfred@patrolley.org! We’re specifically looking for programs related to the Trolley Era in general, Pennsylvania transit history, or stories about our collection. Please join our e-mail list to stay up-to-date with program announcements and other PTM news!
*For the best experience, we recommend downloading Zoom in advance.
NOTE: This is a virtual event
