Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center
add photosThe Mauch Chunk Museum chronicles that history of the town, covering topics from the Lenape Indians to the industry of "black diamonds". Vidoes, images, artifacts and working models give a good glimpse of the town's interesting background. Future engineers will love the working model of Josiah White's Bear Trap Lock, a collapsible water powered lock which permitted trains of coal arks to travel down the Lehigh River.
2 Reviews for Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center
1
00 families found this helpful
"Parade Day"
First off, let me say, I have lived in the area my entire life and frequently visit the local shops and businesses to support the community. My family and I went to see the St. Patty's day parade in Jim Thorpe today, something we do every year. And we strategically placed ourselves in front of the museum to avoid the large crowds as we have two young children. Throughout the day I was observing people coming in and out of the museum. On one occasion the curator ( I use this title "curator" loosely because I doubt this man is deserving of the title) came out of the front doors. I asked him kindly if, by leaving a donation ($5 or $10), I would be able to use the museum's restroom briefly to nurse my infant son (the only other option was a filthy port-a-potty). He rudely said to me "there is port-a-potty over" and slammed the door in my face. I couldn't believe my ears. So, I will never tour this museum again or leave any more donations due to this man's rudeness and arrogance.
Send a Message 
Send a Compliment
It's helpful
0 families found this helpful
"Fun with the Family"
Stop here to learn about the history of the Switchback Railroad and the town that grew up around it. An exhibit called The Story of Mauch Chunk (the town that changed its name to Jim Thorpe) portrays the history of the coal mining industry in Mauch Chunk; the Lenni Lenape Indians; and the life of Jim Thorpe, the Native American Olympic athlete for whom the town was renamed in the 1950s. Although Thorpe was never a resident of the town, his widow heard of the area’s efforts to revitalize its economy and offered her husband’s memorabilia in exchange for naming the town in his honor.
The museum is housed in a beautiful redbrick Victorian church built in 1843.
What's Nearby? Hotels » Activities »
Find Hotels near Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center »
Find Activities near Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center »
Find Restaurants near Mauch Chunk Museum and Cultural Center »
Get the inside scoop from parents who have been there!
