Reading Railroad 1 'Rocket" @ the Franklin Institute - Philadelphia, PA
N 39° 57.490 W 075° 10.380
18S E 485223 N 4423128
Once known as the Railroad Hall, the room containing the "Rocket" & 2 other locomotives is now called The Train Factory. It features new interactive educational programming related to our nation's continuing love affair with its railroads.
Waymark Code: WM7DK4
Location: Pennsylvania, United States
Date Posted: 10/09/2009
Views: 5
Although the "Rocket" — constructed in London in 1838 — is just for viewing and not for climbing into, visitors can climb aboard a 1926 Baldwin locomotive or an earlier American engine (1842) to the sound of train whistles and bells. When first entering the train hall, this locomotive is to the left behind velvet ropes. There are a few interpretives to read for visitors to educate themselves on the history of this "new" invention.
Called the "Rocket", Reading 1 was built by Braithwhite, Milner & Co. in London, England, in 1838. The standard-gauge coal-burner weighs 8.4 tons and has 49" drivers and 10.5" x 16" cylinders. The locomotive was in continuous service until 1879, traveling more than 300,000 miles. It is on view at the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
There are many sources about this specific locomotive. Here are some links. SOURCE,
SOURCE,
SOURCE,
SOURCE and
SOURCE
Visit Instructions:Waymark creators for this category are encouraged to create a visit verification question for visitors. See individual waymarks for specific logging criteria.
Photos of visits are encouraged but not required for this category.