2021-12-08 00:37:34
From firefighters to steam locomotives to famous battles, there’s interesting history at every turn. And best of all, there’s plenty to see for free. Whether taking a family excursion, group trip, or traveling on a budget, these free history museums are well worth a visit. FIREMAN’S HALL MUSEUM, Philadelphia Explore firefighting history and discover how Philadelphia became the birthplace of the first volunteer fire departments and their ongoing legacy. See historic fire engines and the tools firefighters used, including a one-of-a-kind water cannon wagon, and try on firefighting equipment at the family-friendly exhibits. STEAMTOWN NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, Scranton This historic site includes a working railroad and roadhouse with steam locomotives from different eras. Walking into the museum offers a step back in time, complete with train station lobby, ticket windows, and the opportunity to climb aboard a historic mail railway train and business car. TOM RIDGE ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER, Erie Located on the shore of Lake Erie, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center is the gateway to Pennsylvania’s coastline at Presque Isle State Park. Stop in the center to learn about the area’s unique ecosystem and see views of the shoreline from the 75-foot observation tower. Interactive exhibits showcase the wildlife, including migrating birds that visit the isle. FORT NECESSITY NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD, Farmington See the battlefield where the French and Indian War began. Start at the Visitor Center where rangers answer questions and provide information about the park. Then, take the path to the Great Meadow and the reconstructed Fort Necessity. Five miles of trails wind through the meadows and forests with interpretive signs at historic sites. Freedom Fighter Celebrating Harriet Tubman’s 200th Birthday The most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman led approximately 70 enslaved Africans to freedom along a network of secret safe houses into free states. Celebrate Tubman’s bravery and relentless work for freedom with a visit to these historic spots. Explore the Underground Railroad History Center in Blairsville to learn personal stories of freedom seekers and Indiana County residents who helped them on the journey north. In Kennett Square, the Kennett Underground Railroad Center runs bus tours to historic sites. And in Washington, tour Pennsylvania’s first National Historic Landmark of the Underground Railroad, the LeMoyne House, which was a hiding place for runaway slaves and today is a museum with artifacts from the period.
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