Where can you go to see the first piece of steel rolled at the Bethlehem Iron Company or the longest commercially operated portable steam engine? America’s newest museum and the Lehigh Valley’s latest attraction, the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH) will be opening its doors for the first time on Tuesday, August 2nd. Museum visitors will have a chance to see more than 200 unique artifacts—whether it is the first made, the oldest-surviving, longest-operating, or last-produced—and listen to first-hand accounts of workers, entrepreneurs, and activists or try their hand at turning a flywheel, lifting pig iron, or carrying a bobbin board.

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place on August 2nd at 10 am. A 30-minute program will include remarks by Museum leadership and other featured guests. Following the ceremony, the Museum will be open to the public through 5 pm. The first 200 visitors will receive a special, limited-edition commemorative gift.

The celebration continues with a Grand Opening Weekend from August 5th through 7th. The schedule of special programs include: insider tours, a live, on-site broadcast with WLEV, youth activities, and more.

“This Museum is a culmination of the vision, hard work and collaboration of so many individuals as well as government and community partners,” said L. Charles Marcon, Chairman of the NMIH Board of Directors.  “We are excited to be the newest institution on the vibrant SteelStacks campus.”

The National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH), the first Smithsonian Affiliate, is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage.

“We look forward to inspiring tomorrow’s inventors and achievers, educating audiences about the transformation of America from an agrarian society to an industrial giant, and working with public, private, and non-profit partners to attract visitors to explore local and national industrial roots,” said Amy Hollander, NMIH President & CEO.

The Museum’s regular hours will be Wednesdays through Sundays, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Ticket prices are $12 for adults; $11 for seniors, students, and veterans with valid identification; and $9 for children ages 7-17. Children 6 and under are free.

In honor of Musikfest, the Museum will open every day from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm between August 5th and 14th. During this week, timed tickets will be available for purchase through the Museum website and at the Museum reception desk. More information can be found at www.nmih.org

About the National Museum of Industrial History
A Smithsonian Affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. Restoring a 40,000-square- foot, 100-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. For more information on NMIH please visit http://nmih.org