The National Museum of Industrial History Announces $500,000 State Grant Secured by Senator Browne

Bethlehem, Pa – Kara Mohsinger, President and CEO of the National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH), Lee Butz, Vice Chair of the museum’s Board of Directors, and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Pat Browne today announced a $500,000 state grant for the National Museum of Industrial History in Bethlehem.

The state funding, announced at a press conference at the museum, was secured by Senator Browne to help the museum develop into a larger tourism destination.

“This is a transformative grant,” said Kara Mohsinger, President and CEO of the Museum.  “It will not only allow us to enhance the museum for our visitors, but to break new ground on exciting projects that will help us tell the story of the industries and the people that built this country.”

“I am pleased to have secured this funding to help the museum reach its goal of promoting the past achievements in American Industrial history, with a specific focus on the history made here in the Lehigh Valley, while at the same time inspiring our next generation of great industrial minds and creators,” Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Browne said. “The NMIH’s affiliation with the Smithsonian Institution, including displays on loan from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, is an indication of the significance and credibility of this museum and its place in promoting the tremendous accomplishments of America’s industrial prowess.

“The museum’s location at the former Bethlehem Steel site is extremely meaningful as there is no better symbol of the American Industrial might than right here in the Lehigh Valley with the storied history of Bethlehem Steel. The tremendous achievements of America’s second-largest steel manufacturer led to a near century-long run as an economic leader and job producer with tens of thousands of employees at the peak of the steel company’s success. I am delighted to work with Kara Mohsinger, Charlie Marcon, Lee Butz and the rest of the museum’s board of directors, employees, volunteers and supporters to ensure that the legacy of America’s industrial history continues and grows right here in the Lehigh Valley.”

The primary goal is to promote overnight stays in Pennsylvania by supporting events, developing marketing and public relations campaigns, funding facility enhancements, and supporting new construction. In addition, the grant will aid the museum in developing new exhibits, educating new generations about the nation’s industrial history, inspiring young inventors and entrepreneurs, and reaching audiences beyond the tri-state area.

“We are grateful to Senator Browne for recognizing the importance of the stories we tell at the museum and helping us to expand the horizons of what the museum offers to the thousands who come through our doors each year,” said L. Charles Marcon, Chairman of the museum’s board of directors.  The grant will be funded through Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development. Since its opening in 2016, the museum has served patrons from all 50 states and over 25 countries.

Photographs: For full resolution, click photo. Credit to “Glenn Koehler/NMIH”

Pennsylvania Senator Pat Browne delivers a speech at the National Museum of Industrial History on Thursday, September 12th announcing a $500,000 grant for the museum.
NMIH Vice Chairman Lee Butz introduced Pennsylvania Senator Pat Browne
NMIH Vice Chairman Lee Butz delivers remarks at the announcement of the receipt of a $500,000 grant for the National Museum of Industrial History
Pennsylvania Senator Pat Browne delivers a speech at the National Museum of Industrial History on Thursday, September 12th announcing a $500,000 grant for the museum.
Senator Pat Browne (left) and NMIH Vice Chairman Lee Butz (center) listen as NMIH President and CEO Kara Mohsinger delivers remarks at the announcement of the National Museum of Industrial History receiving a $500,000 grant
NMIH President and CEO Kara Mohsinger delivers remarks at the announcement of the National Museum of Industrial History receiving a $500,000 grant.
PA Senator Pat Browne shakes hands with NMIH Vice Chairman Lee Butz after delivering remarks at the announcement of a $500,000 grant for the National Museum of Industrial History
Senator Pat Browne helps operate a 115-ton Corliss steam engine at the National Museum of Industrial History with museum historian Mike Piersa

About NMIH
A Smithsonian Institution-affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America’s rich industrial heritage. Housed in an 18,000-square-foot, 100-year-old former Bethlehem Steel facility on the largest private brownfield in America, the Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs and amazing history.  Learn more at nmih.org.

Media Contact:
Glenn Koehler
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
National Museum of Industrial History
[email protected]
610.573.3579 (cell)

Matt Moyer
Policy & Communications Director
Senator Pat Browne
[email protected]
610.821.8468
610.349.2879 (cell)

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