Harrington Railroad Tower Museum
Explore Harrington's railway history at the Railroad Tower Museum, featuring a restored tower, shanty, and caboose with original artifacts.
The Harrington Railroad Tower Museum offers a glimpse into the pivotal role of the railway in shaping the town of Harrington, Delaware. Maintained by the Harrington Historical Society, the museum complex features the meticulously restored PRR Tower, a watchman's shanty, and a PRR caboose built in 1926. Inside the tower, visitors can examine original railroad equipment and learn about the manual operation of train switches and signals. The watchman's shanty and caboose provide further insight into the lives of railroad workers and the daily operations of the railway. The museum's exhibits include dioramas of rail tracks, conductors' uniforms, and various railroad tools, offering a comprehensive look at the railway's impact on Harrington. Harrington's history is deeply intertwined with the Delaware Railroad, which spurred the town's growth as a trading center after its establishment in 1856. The town was named in honor of Hon. Samuel Maxwell Harrington, a key figure in bringing the railroad to southern Delaware. Today, the Railroad Tower Museum stands as a testament to this legacy, preserving and celebrating Harrington's rich railway heritage.
Local tips
- Check the Harrington Historical Society's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours and schedule a tour, as the museum is open by appointment.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the Harrington Historical Society Museum on Fleming Street to delve deeper into the town's history.
- Explore other attractions in Harrington, such as the Harrington Raceway & Casino or the Delaware State Fairgrounds.
A brief summary to Railroad Tower Museum
- 68-2 Hanley St, Harrington, Delaware, 19952, US
- +1302-398-3698
- Visit website
Getting There
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Walking
The Railroad Tower Museum is located at 68-2 Hanley St, a short walk from the center of Harrington. From the intersection of US-13 and DE-14 in Harrington, head west on DE-14 (Daugherty Street). Turn left onto Hanley Street. The museum will be on your right. There is no fee for entry.
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Driving
From US-13, turn west onto DE-14 (Daugherty Street) in Harrington. Turn left onto Hanley Street. The Railroad Tower Museum will be on your right. Parking is available near the museum. Note that parking may be limited during events at the nearby Delaware State Fairgrounds. There is no fee for parking.
