Owls Head Transportation Museum

Overview

The Owls Head Transportation Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the collection, preservation, exhibition, and operation of pre-1940 aircraft, ground vehicles, engines, and other significant technologies related to the evolution of transportation. Founded in 1974 by aviation enthusiasts, including Thomas J. Watson Jr. and Jim Rockefeller, the museum aims to educate visitors about the historical development of transportation.

Mission

The museum's mission is to provide educational experiences by demonstrating the operation of historic vehicles, including early aircraft, automobiles, bicycles, and other forms of transportation. This unique approach allows visitors to engage directly with the past, offering a hands-on understanding of how transportation technology has evolved.

Collection

The museum boasts an extensive collection of over 150 historic vehicles and artifacts, making it one of the largest operational fleets of its kind in New England. The collection includes:

• Aircraft: The museum houses 24 aircraft, featuring both original and replica models such as the Bleriot IX, Curtiss JN-4D Jenny, and a replica of the Wright Brothers' Flyer.
• Automobiles: With 54 vehicles ranging from 1898 to 1968, the collection highlights significant milestones in automotive history, including early models like the 1885 Benz.
• Bicycles and Tricycles: Eleven bicycles and tricycles are on display, showcasing the evolution of cycling technology from the 1860s to the 1940s.
• Motorcycles: The collection includes 11 motorcycles from 1901 to the 1960s, featuring models like the 1919 Harley-Davidson.
• Carriages: A mid-19th century stagecoach and an early 20th century British Romani wagon are part of the exhibits.
• Engines: Eighteen engines, including a 1895 compound steam engine and a 1955 Allison J33 turbojet engine, demonstrate the technological advancements in engine design.

Exhibits

The museum features various exhibits that are updated annually to provide visitors with a fresh experience each year. Notable exhibits include:

• Women Who Dare: Celebrating women who contributed to transportation history.
• Faster: The Quest for Speed: Explores the pursuit of speed in transportation.
• Fads & Failures: Features vehicles that were once popular but are now forgotten.
• The Great War: Examines the mechanization of warfare from 1914 to 1918.
• Pedaling to Progress: Highlights the evolution of bicycles and their impact on society.
• Road to Vacationland: Chronicles the development of Maine’s tourism industry.

Events

Throughout the year, especially during spring and summer, the Owls Head Transportation Museum hosts a variety of events, including:

• Maine Museum Day: Free admission to celebrate the state's rich cultural heritage.
• Spring Auto Tour: A scenic drive featuring antique vehicles.
• Spring Roll-Out: An outdoor event with live demonstrations and activities.
• All American Meet: A showcase of classic American automobiles.
• Wings & Wheels Spectacular: Combines aircraft and vehicle demonstrations for a dynamic show.

These events often include live demonstrations, vehicle auctions, and opportunities for visitors to ride in vintage vehicles.

Nonprofit Status

The Owls Head Transportation Museum is designated as a 501(c)(3) organization, focusing on educational, cultural, and historical preservation efforts.