My husband piked the place, I am not so in Locomotives but it was much more then that. Interesting story during the civil war. I was surprised in how many country's the Manufacture exported there locomotives. even to Russia. We staid on Dobbins AFB, so an easy ride for us.
Unique museum with plenty of exhibits. I was mostly impressed by the exhibits of the actual locomotive manufacturers tool and die shops. These are real exhibits with the actual machinery, techniques and tools used to make and refinish parts by hand. Full of Civil War history and the influence of the Railroad on this conflict. I went in not expecting much. Been there three times now in two years. Very educational... highly recommended.
Visited for the first time after living nearby for 13 years. Well put together museum you can visit in an hour or spend half a day. Small entrance fee. The movie is a bit hokey, but tells the story nonetheless. Great place for kids and adults alike with real artifacts on loan or exhibit. Gives you an appreciation for what these men and women did and how difficult the living conditions were as this country was finding its way. A great resource to learn a little history. The gift store at the end is a bit much, but I suppose they have to pay the bills somehow.Located right downtown. Parking is free and convenient.
Very nicely done museum with good local flavor. There is a scavenger hunt and railway section that will interest those under 12. Teens without an interest in Civil War history might get a bit bored. Those who spend time in each section can see it all in less than 3 1/2 hours, or linger longer in each area and add an hour to your visit. A smaller section on Civil War history with artifacts and documents at the beginning leads into the main area of the facility, which focuses on the importance of rail transportation during the war and the industrial complex required for the manufacture of railway equipment. The true story of the Great Train Robbery is featured with a special section dedicated to the first national Medals of Honor awarded to those soldiers and spys who attempted the theft in support of the Union plan to break southern supply lines. Special section on the role of the Glover Family of Marietta and their family business' contribution to southern industry will interest those with manufacturing or machining experience.
We take every friend and family that comes to visit, to this well done museum, in the center of the small town America, Kennesaw, Ga. It is a well done history lesson for all ages, and of course, the kids love anything to do with old trains.Got to follow up with a visit to the Kennesaw Mtn. National Battlefield Park.
On the morning of April 12, 1862 the morning train from Atlanta stopped for breakfast at a nearby hotel. During the stop, the train, powered by The General, was stolen by Union spies led by James J. Andrews. Their mission was to disable this rail line to Chattanooga that was a critical supply link for Confederate forces fighting in Tennessee and further west. The train's conductor, William Fuller, chased the stolen train for some 80 miles to a spot near Ringgold, GA where it ran out of wood (fuel) and was abandoned. The tale has been told in several books and movies, most notably "The Great Locomotive Chase" by Walt Disney ~ 1956.The General, beautifully restored, is the centerpiece of this museum that tells not only the story of the raid and ensuing chase but also railroading in the south. After touring the extensive museum, take a minute to walk down to the adjacent railroad tracks and read the various signs and markers. The chase started at this point, and the rail line is still in very active use.Today's I-75 parallels the rail line. A number of the key spots along the chase route can easily be reached from the highway. One of the key highlights is Tunnel Hill just this side of Ringgold. Signs on I-75 direct you to this crucial point near the end off the chase. The original tunnel is still there but no longer used by the railroad.
The museum is a good museum for a light afternoon with a nice dose of Southern Civil War history. We did not feel rushed and thoroughly enjoyed our visit.
Great time here. We really enjoyed it. Gift shop was great. People were friendly. Displays are very good. But if you are not into Civil War history you might not enjoy it.
We have made the trip down several times to this museum. Well worth it every time. Great historical artifacts. Many changing exhibits. Made a special trip down when we could board the General. Great to be able to be this close to such an awesome piece of American history.
This is a must see when you are in the Atlanta area. Very well made and interesting exhibit about the civil war with special focus on the railroad. A lot of artifacts from the area are shown and the "General" locomotive is impressing to see. Very friendly and informed staff.