An Invention that Changed the Nation
Did you know that the first official telegraph message was received at the current location of the National Museum of Railroad History & Innovation on May 24, 1844? Learn more about Samuel Morse and how the telegraph revolutionized communication at one of our scheduled activities:
Activity
Learn to communicate in Morse Code using paper flashlights! Participants will learn about how circuits and polarity work during this activity.
Memorial Day
Storytime and Craft
May 25, 2026 @ 10:30 AM
Enjoy a read aloud of Jackrabbit McCabe and the Electric Telegraph by Lucy Margaret Rozier. Afterwards, color your own Maryland flag.
Paper Flashlight Workshop
May 25, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM
Learn to communicate in Morse Code using paper flashlights! Participants will learn about how circuits and polarity work during this activity.
Morse Code Workshop
May 25, 2026 @ 10 AM-4 PM
Learn about the connection between Samuel Morse’s telegraph and the B&O. Next, decode your own name in Morse Code and create a bracelet.
Upcoming Events at the Museum
Upcoming Events at the Museum
WITH GENEROUS SUPPORT FROM:
“Wonderful rail museum with many historic engines, passenger cars, mail car, troop transport, and more. Several models layouts including the Smithsonian collection of models which was amazing. Wonderful presentation on the underground railroad. We will visit again.”
Jeffery O.
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