Visiting the Wayne County Historical Society Museum in Honesdale is like stepping into a living timeline of the county’s people, industries, and innovations.
Housed in the former headquarters of the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company, the museum preserves stories that shaped both local and national history.
With its mix of historic artifacts, interactive exhibits, and one-of-a-kind collections, it offers an engaging experience for history lovers of all ages.
Directions | Hours | Admission Fees
The Wayne County Historical Society Museum is located at 810 Main Street, Honesdale, PA 18431.
The museum is open Wednesday – Saturday 11 am. – 4 pm.
Admission fees are: Adults – $5 | 18 and under – free.
What You’ll see at the Wayne County Historical Society Museum
One of the highlights of a visit is the award-winning Movin’ Energy: The History of the Delaware and Hudson Canal 1828–1898 exhibit.
This exhibit is housed in the 1993 addition that was built to showcase the full-size replica of the Stourbridge Lion, the first locomotive to run on commercial track in the United States, which made its maiden run in Honesdale in 1829.
Nearby, the D&H passenger gravity car known as the Eclipse is displayed, complete with its hand-stenciled ceiling and decoratively carved wood interior.
Another fascinating section of the museum is the Katz Company exhibit, which tells the story of a clothing manufacturer that operated in Wayne County for over 90 years and became a nationally recognized brand.
The exhibit highlights everything from the company’s early days making underwear to its later expansion into sleepwear and fashion apparel.
For those interested in even earlier history, the Vernon Leslie archaeology collection features more than 4,600 artifacts.
This collection interprets the Native American history of the Upper Delaware Valley, shedding light on Lenape traditions, hunting techniques, and community life.
Adding a military dimension to the museum is the General Lyman Lemnitzer exhibit.
A Wayne County native, Lemnitzer rose to the rank of four-star general in the U.S. Army, and the exhibit showcases his remarkable career and contributions.
Another must-see stop is the Wayne County Glass Exhibit.
This display features over 160 examples of cut and pressed glass, all produced locally between the 1820s and the 1980s, and illustrates the county’s important role in Pennsylvania’s glassmaking industry.
Together, these exhibits paint a rich portrait of Wayne County’s past, from its Native American roots to its industrial accomplishments and military heroes.
Final Thoughts
A visit to the Wayne County Historical Society Museum is both educational and inspiring, offering a deeper appreciation for the county’s enduring legacy.
Whether your interest lies in railroads, industry, Native American culture, or military history, this museum has something memorable to offer.
Nearby Attractions
9 Must-See Attractions in Wayne County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near the Wayne County Historical Society Museum.
Explore Pennsylvania like a pro with the interactive PA Bucket List Travel Map, showcasing over 1,000 memorable destinations I’ve personally visited across the Keystone State.
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