Photograph courtesy of the Portage Area Historical Society

The American railway system is a major part of the heritage of Cambria and the surrounding counties. For the better part of two centuries, locomotives have transported passengers and goods from, to and through the region. Portage Station Museum provides visitors with an in-depth look into the railroad industry and its impact upon our region.

Originally a station for the Pennsylvania Railroad, the facility located at 400 Lee Street, Portage, PA (click here for a map) now educates the public through the use of exhibits and displays focused on the history and culture of the Portage area. “We’re part of the Heritage Trail, which includes a series of landmarks along the Allegheny Ridge” says John Havrilla, Treasurer of the Portage Historical Society, the non-profit organization that manages the museum. “Our theme is ‘Life along the Mainline’, where one of our permanent displays is a typical kitchen circa 1930.”

Another popular exhibit is the permanent installation “Mainline in Miniature”, a model train display that portrays the local rail system as it was in the first half of the 20th Century, including the depiction of popular landmarks such as  Horseshoe Curve and Gallitzin Tunnels. To see the trains in action, visit the museum on the first Saturday of each month.

The museum is frequently the location for special events. This month the public is invited to attend “Singin’ on the Rails”, a presentation by musician Ed McDale that uses music, history and comedy to tell the tale of the American workers that made the railway system a reality. The event is scheduled for Sunday, October 18th, 2009 at 2:00PM and admission is free.

Portage Station Museum is open year-round from Wednesday to Saturday from Noon until 5:00PM. There is a modified schedule for holidays, so, when in doubt, call (814) 736-9223. To learn more, visit the Portage Station Museum Web site at www.portagestationmuseum.org.