Nestled in the scenic Mid-Coast Maine, the Owls Head Transportation Museum offers an immersive journey through the evolution of transportation. Often considered a hidden gem just south of Rockland, this world-class museum boasts an impressive collection of antique vehicles, aircraft, and engines, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts and families alike.
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Exploring the Owls Head Transportation Museum Collection
Established in 1974, the Owls Head Transportation Museum (OHTM) is dedicated to preserving and showcasing pre-1940 ground vehicles, aircraft, and technologies. With over 150 exhibits, ranging from meticulously restored originals to accurate historical replicas, OHTM stands as New England’s largest operational fleet of its kind.
Beyond its extensive collection, this distinguished car museum provides a dynamic experience through seasonal events held during spring and summer, along with a special winter holiday celebration. Each visit to Owls Head offers a unique and engaging encounter with transportation history.
Owls Head Transportation Museum – Fall 2021
A Brief History of the Museum
The Owls Head Transportation Museum’s inception was the brainchild of Tom Watson, then head of IBM, and Jim Rockefeller, an aircraft and shipbuilder who owned a grass airstrip near Camden. Initially, their vision was simply to fly vintage airplanes in the Owls Head area of Maine.
Acquiring land adjacent to Rockland Airport’s Runway 17, Watson, Rockefeller, and Steve Lang, a friend of Rockefeller, developed a dirt road and conceived plans for a nonprofit museum focused on demonstrating the operation of historic aircraft.
To generate public interest, Rockefeller and Lang organized a rally featuring vintage aircraft, engines, and vehicles. The inaugural museum rally in 1975 attracted diverse attendees and marked the beginning of the museum’s growth.
By 1976, the fledgling transportation museum housed a modest collection of two cars and two planes. This quickly expanded to include a 100-ton steam engine and a high-wheel bicycle. Today, the Owls Head Transportation Museum is internationally recognized for its exceptional collection of historical vehicles and related technological artifacts.
Must-See Exhibits at Owls Head Transportation Museum
The Owls Head Transportation Museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated and frequently updated, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit to this Mid-Coast Maine highlight. The rotating exhibits complement the core collection, providing diverse perspectives on transportation history.
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Women Who Dare: This exhibit celebrates pioneering women who defied conventions and pushed boundaries in the world of transportation, both on land and in the air.
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Faster: The Quest for Speed: Explore humanity’s enduring fascination with speed and the technological advancements driven by the pursuit of faster, more agile vehicles.
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Fads & Failures: Vehicles “Lost” to Progress: Discover intriguing and often misunderstood inventions and motorized machines that, despite their popularity, were ultimately overshadowed by progress.
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The Great War: Gain insights into the profound impact of mechanization on warfare during World War I (1914-1918) and the rapid technological advancements of the era.
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More Than a Century Ago: Reflect on the groundbreaking achievement of the Wright brothers’ first powered, controlled flight in 1903 and its transformative impact on aviation.
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Pedaling to Progress: Bicycles from 1800s-1920s: Trace the evolution of cycling culture and technology from the earliest bicycles to the more refined models of the early 20th century.
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Road to Vacationland: Uncover the history of travel and tourism in Maine, exploring how transportation shaped the state’s identity as a premier “vacationland” destination over two centuries.
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Melbourne Brindle: The Artist’s Passion for the Automobile: Admire original artworks by Australian-American artist Ewart Melbourne Brindle, showcasing his lifelong passion for Rolls-Royce automobiles through detailed illustrations and paintings.
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Iconic Engines: Learn about the foundational engines of the Industrial Revolution and their pivotal role in powering progress across various industries and modes of transport.
The Lang Education Center: A Resource for Transportation History
Opened in 1997, the Lang Education Center at the Owls Head Transportation Museum significantly enhances the museum’s educational mission. Fueled by a generous donation from the Lang family of over 5,000 art pieces, books, and photographs, the center houses an extensive research library.
The research library’s collection includes over 3,000 periodicals, prints, paintings, and ephemera, alongside 8,000 books, 10,000 photographs and negatives, living history manuscripts and recordings, and a comprehensive video and film archive. Access to the Lang Education Center is available by appointment, offering a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts.
owls head transportation museum – June 2020
Engaging Events at the Owls Head Transportation Museum
Throughout the spring and summer seasons, the Owls Head Transportation Museum comes alive with a diverse array of events and educational programs celebrating all facets of transportation. Many events feature car shows, captivating live demonstrations, exciting aircraft displays, vintage car rides, and exhilarating 20-minute biplane adventures. The museum café provides refreshments to enhance the visitor experience during these events.
Please note: Event schedules may vary annually; it’s recommended to check the museum’s official website for the most up-to-date event listings and details.
Maine Museum Day Celebration
Each year, typically in mid-March, Owls Head Transportation Museum participates in Maine Museum Day, offering free admission to all visitors. This special day provides a fantastic opportunity for individuals of all ages to explore the museum’s remarkable collection and delve into the global history of transportation.
Spring Auto Tour
In May, the Spring Auto Tour marks the exciting start of the museum’s summer season. Participants embark on a scenic cruise through the picturesque Maine countryside in their antique, classic, or special interest vehicles, sometimes even including historic steam engines. The tour destinations are refreshed each year, adding an element of surprise.
Spring Roll-Out Event
Further celebrating the arrival of summer, the Spring Roll-Out event takes place in June, filling the museum grounds with engaging activities and displays suitable for all ages.
All American Meet
Early July sees the OHTM host the All American Meet, a prominent showcase of iconic American-made automobiles. This event highlights classic cars with powerful engines and distinctive designs, appealing to enthusiasts of American automotive heritage.
Annual Truck Show
In mid-July, the Truck Show becomes a focal point, presenting a diverse collection of antique trucks, tractors, and commercial and military vehicles. This established event features informative blind-spot demonstrations, a captivating tractor parade, and a synchronized horn-blowing display, adding unique interactive elements.
Wings & Wheels Spectacular Airshow
The Wings & Wheels Spectacular, another longstanding and highly anticipated event, is a two-day airshow held in August. Renowned aerobatic performers from across the country join the museum’s own aircraft fleet to deliver thrilling sky-high entertainment, drawing aviation enthusiasts and families alike.
Owls Head Transportation Museum – November 2019
New England Auto Auction
Every August, the Owls Head Transportation Museum hosts the New England Auto Auction, a tradition since 1977. This auction serves as a significant marketplace connecting vehicle sellers and buyers from around the globe. Even for non-bidders, the event offers an unforgettable experience, witnessing the excitement of classic car auctions.
The auction week commences with two preview days, the first culminating in a barbecue. An engaging Automobilia+Collectibles Auction, featuring rare automobile collectibles and memorabilia, serves as a warmup to the main auction event held on Saturday.
Motorcycle Festival
The September Motorcycle Festival stands as one of the largest motorcycle gatherings in Maine. This event attracts motorcycle enthusiasts from across the region, showcasing a wide range of bikes and related exhibits.
Foreign Auto Festival
In mid-September, the Foreign Auto Festival celebrates the global diversity of automobiles. Featuring rare imported vehicles, this festival offers a fascinating glimpse into international automotive design and engineering.
Holidays at the Museum
Spreading holiday cheer, the OHTM hosts “Holidays at the Museum,” an outdoor event in early December. This festive occasion includes free museum entry, Santa Claus’s arrival via aircraft on Runway 17, and opportunities for children to share their Christmas wishes with Santa in a charming gazebo setting.
Owls Head Transportation Museum – August 2019
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Tickets, and Tips for Owls Head Transportation Museum
The Owls Head Transportation Museum welcomes visitors year-round from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the exception of select holidays and unforeseen closures. Ticket prices are reasonable, with discounts available for seniors and free admission for children under 18, active military personnel, and veterans.
Accessibility at the Museum
The museum is committed to accessibility, providing complimentary walkers and wheelchairs for visitor use. Adaptive equipment is also available upon request. Furthermore, trained service dogs and miniature horses are welcome in all public areas of the museum.
Tips for Visitors
- Allocate approximately two hours to thoroughly explore the OHTM exhibits. If attending a special event or festival, plan for extended visit times.
- Photography is encouraged to capture your museum experience and share your visit. However, monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks are not permitted within the exhibit areas.
- Outside food and beverages are allowed but must remain in sealed containers while inside the museum. Picnic facilities are available at Millstone Park (patio furniture) between May and October for visitors wishing to enjoy meals outdoors.
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Dining Options Near Owls Head Transportation Museum
After a stimulating visit to the OHTM, a variety of appealing dining options are available nearby. While the museum café operates during events, here are some recommended local eateries:
Ship to Shore Lobster Co.
Located on the historic oldest working wharf in the peninsula, Ship to Shore Lobster Co. offers fresh seafood and waterfront views. Observe fishing gear and enjoy steamed lobster on the nearby beach for an authentic Maine experience.
Owls Head General Store
The family-run Owls Head General Store is a local favorite for quick bites and homemade fudge. Renowned for its burgers (recognized by the Food Network), the store also serves breakfast, pizza, sandwiches, and other casual fare.
Primo Restaurant
Primo in Rockland offers a refined farm-to-table dining experience since 2000. Utilizing ingredients from its own farm, greenhouses, and gardens, Primo delivers a high-quality menu in a charming setting with multiple dining rooms and a bar.
Long Grain
In Camden, Long Grain has been serving Asian fusion cuisine since 2009. Focusing on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, Long Grain blends Thai, Japanese, Singaporean, Indonesian, and Vietnamese flavors into creative and flavorful dishes.
Explore more dining choices in nearby Rockland, Rockport, and Camden for a wider culinary adventure.
best place to stay near Owls Head Transportation Museum
Comfortable Accommodation Near Owls Head Transportation Museum
For visitors planning a summer trip to the Owls Head Transportation Museum, Glen Cove Inn & Suites is a conveniently located option, less than 15 minutes away via scenic coastal routes. Our Rockland inn offers 36 guest rooms and suites, a relaxing garden and outdoor heated pool, and direct access to the picturesque Penobscot Bay Walking Trail.
Alternatively, The Country Inn at Camden Rockport, situated less than 20 minutes from the OHTM, provides year-round lodging. This property features 36 guest rooms and suites and 11 seasonal cottages, along with an indoor heated pool and hot tub and easy access to downtown Camden amenities.
Check availability at Glen Cove and The Country Inn when planning your Mid-Coast Maine getaway!
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