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New Hampshire Railroad Museums: A Complete Guide
Published: April 23, 2025
By: Adam Burns
New Hampshire, known for its breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant culture, also boasts a rich railroad history that has been meticulously preserved and celebrated across various museums.
These museums are not just depots of train memorabilia, but they are epicenters of stories, artifacts, and experiences that capture the transformative power of railroads in shaping the state. This article takes you through the most significant railroad museums in New Hampshire, providing a detailed exploration of each.
Ashland Railroad Station Museum
This museum is located inside the small Boston, Concord & Montreal Railroad depot completed in 1869. The BC&M was incorporated in 1844 and eventually opened between Concord and Wells River, Vermont on May 10, 1853 (this later became a connection point with the Canadian Pacific and Barre & Chelsea).
The Boston & Maine first acquired control of the BC&M; in 1887 but soon spun-off the railroad to form the Concord & Montreal on July 24, 1889. The C&M; was a consolidation of the BC&M; and Concord Railroad, remaining independent for only a few more years.
It later rejoined the B&M network in 1895. The preserved building houses a collection of historic artifacts and documents. It is only open to the public during July and August of each year. However, the little single story building, which still sits at its original location (next to the active tracks of the Hobo Railroad) offers free admission to the public.
Gorham Historical Society And Railroad Museum
This museum, located in Gorham, is located within the town's restored Grand Trunk Railway (Canadian National) stone depot constructed in 1907. The tracks next to the building are still active, operated by the St. Lawrence & Atlantic Railroad, a division of Genesee & Wyoming.
It is maintained by the Gorham Historical Society featuring a collection of artifacts and displays inside. They also house a model railroad inside a boxcar, featuring a small collection of rolling stock on the premises, including a preserved steam locomotive; dressed for the Grand Trunk it was actually built for the New England Gas & Coke Company.
The little switcher carries an 0-6-0 wheel arrangement and was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1911. For many years it was located at the original Steamtown attraction in Bellows Falls, Vermont.
Hartmann Model Railroad Ltd.
Located in Intervale this organization features a large collection of model railroads with layouts HO and Z to G-scale and Lionel products. They also showcase many pieces within display cases. Finally, outside is a small operating, scale-train operation. They are open on select days year-round.
Raymond Historical Museum
Located inside the Boston & Maine's restored depot here (built in 1893) this museum features a collection of displays and artifacts related to the area and railroad in general.
They also have a small collection of rolling stock on the grounds (which includes a refrigerator car, caboose, and small Whitcomb diesel switcher lettered for the Portsmouth & Concord Railroad).
The former B&M line here has been abandoned for many years and now hosts the Rockingham Recreational Trail. The non-profit Raymond Historical Society, which oversees the depot, was formed in 1969 and eventually acquired the building before the B&M abandoned the tracks.
In addition to this structure they also have preserved a small maintenance shed and observation building. While there be sure and also visit their tools museum and one-room school house. Throughout the year they host various special events, largely aimed at raising funds for preservation efforts.
Sandown Depot Museum
This museum is located within the restored depot in Sandown, completed in 1873/74 by the Nashua & Rochester Railroad, a future component of the Boston & Maine. It is operated by the local historical society and offers handcars to view along with a collection of historic documents and displays.
Overview
New Hampshire's railroad museums offer a comprehensive look into the railroads that not only served as critical conduits for goods and passengers but also acted as catalysts for industrial and social change. Each museum and exhibit serves as a steward of heritage, preserving stories of technological innovation and community development. Whether you are a history buff, a rail enthusiast, or a curious traveler, New Hampshire's railroad museums offer an enlightening destination.
Visiting these sites provides a window into the past, inviting exploration and reflection on how railroads have woven into the cultural and physical landscape of New Hampshire. For anyone eager to appreciate the historical and ongoing significance of rail travel, these institutions provide an engaging and educational opportunity that commemorates the legacy of the iron rails.
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