Baltimore Museum of Industry: A look back at Baltimore's glory days

Baltimore's placement on the harbor made it an industrial town, and through the Industrial Revolution it became the second most populated city in America, next to New York. Canneries, garment factories, printing press, railroads, distribution centers, and machine factories made up the Baltimore existence, shipping and producing goods for the whole of America. And though much of that activity in Baltimore has quieted down, even abandoned for greener pastures, you can re-visit the glory days at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.

Located on the waterfront where much of Baltimore's industry took place, the BMI is a large gallery of Baltimore's – and America's - progressive history through the industrial revolution. Six permanent exhibits are set up in the museum focusing on a different parts of industry. The Bunting Pharmacy, named for Dr. George Bunting, allows visitors to explore the place where Noxzema (“the miracle cream of Baltimore”) was invented.

The Cannery provides insight into the “first fast food” for Americans and is fitting for the museum, which was originally home of Platt & Company, an oyster, fruit and vegetable cannery in 1865. There's the Decker Gallery, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the back of the room and views of the Inner Harbor. The Decker Gallery, named for Black & Decker, showcases Baltimore's vital industries such as the first gas street light and the history of neon signs. It also features the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad company, which was America's first, the first umbrella manufacturer, and a scale model of the MiniMariner plane used to retieve WWII pilots.

Also in the museum is an exhibit of the garment industry, with replica rooms of sewing shops and other artifacts, such as oyster shell buttons, a display of hats and a steam garment press.The Machine Shop displays belt-driven machines, such as a steam pump. Many of the machines still work today. Lastly is the Print Shop, demonstrating the use of the printing press for newspapers like The Baltimore Sun. Children can also practice their printing skills here.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, there are touring exhibits and various events planned throughout the month and year. Every Saturday there's a farmers' market and a scheduled printing workshop. You can also take a basket-making workshop or participate in a beer tasting. There are also various lectures about the different industries--once a month on Sunday.

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