History:

One of the oldest children's museum's in the country, we were organized in the October of 1963 by the Junior League. Originally called the Junior Museum of Oneida County, our museum began in the basement of the Utica Public Library. The museum consisted of one exhibit, an Iroquois Longhouse which we still exhibit. The idea of a museum for area children caught on quickly and the museum started to grow.

The Museum is a hands-on learning center with emphasis on local history, environmental science, the arts, and space science. The Museum provides educational programs for local school groups, home school groups, scouts, and daycare centers throughout the three county area that we serve, as well as for groups who come in by bus and train from throughout the state. Our Educational Enrichment Programs enhance learning for children of all ages. Teachers and others who book educational field trips are given resource materials for their students to enhance learning after the visit.

Outside of the Museum, there is an outdoor display of real trains including an Engine, Dining Car, and Caboose, which were acquired by the National Railway Historic Society and reside on museum property.