FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bethlehem, PA — The National Museum of Industrial History invites the public to experience history in motion during two dynamic events taking place on Saturday and Sunday, March 21st and 22nd from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 602 E. 2nd Street in Bethlehem. Museum in Motion and the Crank-In will fill both museum floors with the sights, sounds, and movement of working historic machinery, offering guests of all ages a rare opportunity to see industrial innovation come alive.
Crank-In
On both the 21st and 22nd, in partnership with the Circular Sock Machine Knitters of the MARS (Mid-Atlantic Region), the museum will host its first “crank-in” with approximately 40 collectors and makers from across the United States and their hand-cranked sock knitting machines, gathered by their shared passion for creating products using these historic devices.
This event will feature public demonstrations, along with a special pop-up exhibit showcasing knitting machines dating back to the 1870s and literature describing how during WWI, women on the homefront used these machines to help keep the troops in the trenches safe and healthy. Visitors will have the exceptional opportunity to interact with friendly experts operating these machines for their original purpose, creating wearable goods. An introductory video on sock knitting machines will run in the Education Center before and after a lecture on the history of the circular sock knitter at 11 AM Saturday by Lois Swales.
Museum in Motion
Throughout the day on March 21st and 22nd, visitors will see a wide array of historic machinery operating, demonstrating the power and ingenuity that fueled America’s industrial growth. Featured machines include:
- The 115-ton Corliss Steam Engine at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. each day
- The 1867 Norwalk Steam Engine
- Maypole Braider
- Foot-powered Scroll Saw
- Model Engines
- Hand-cranked sewing machines, one of which guests can try themselves
- Many more machines spanning a century of industrial progress
Guests can watch these machines in action, learn how they function, and engage directly with museum educators and volunteers as they interpret the technology that shaped industry.
From massive steam engines to delicate textile machinery, March 21st and 22nd promises a full-spectrum industrial experience. Designed for families, students, adults, history enthusiasts, and more, the event highlights the innovation that continues to define America’s industrial story. Both events are included with regular museum admission. No registration is required.
For more information, visit nmih.org or contact the museum directly 610-694-6644, [email protected].
About NMIH
A Smithsonian Institution-affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. Housed in an 36,000-square-foot, 113-year-old former Bethlehem Steel facility on the largest private brownfield in America, the Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs and amazing history.
Media Contact
Anthony Lopez, Manager of Marketing & Communication
National Museum of Industrial History
602 East 2nd St, Bethlehem, PA 18015
[email protected]