Cole Land Transportation Museum

USPA NEWS - Located just a short distance from Downtown Bangor, the Bangor International Airport(KBGR), and the I95, the Cole Land Transportation Museum can be found at 405 Perry Road.
Founded by Galen Cole in 1990, the museum campus houses a collection of vintage land transpot vehicles/artifacts which have a rich history in Maine and Northern New England. The museum also celebrates the United States Military with a War Memorial to honor all of the those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the freedoms that are enjoyed in this great land.

On a recent trip to New England, I had the privilege of visiting the Cole Land Transportation Museum. Upon arriving at the museum, I was greeted by several volunteers who explained the mission statement which can be found on the Cole Land Transportation Museum website. The statement reads, " Our purpose at the Cole Land Transportation Museum is to collect, preserve, and display (before the disappear forever) a cross section of Maine's transportation equipment from which this and future generations will gain knowledge of the past." The statement goes on to say, "We also wish to remember, record and display U.S. military memorabilia to forever remind this and future generations of the high price our comrades have paid to protect our freedom. In doing so, we hope to inspire and challenge the young people of today to continue on in the footsteps of pioneers who have built our state and country."

Inside the museum there were are many exhibits along with educational explanation to be discovered. These include trains, fire engines, antique cars, a bus, transport trucks, snow plows, motorcycles, farm equipment, and military vehicles. On the museum grounds outside of the main building is the location for the War Memorial and several U.S. military vehicles including jeep, a tank and a helicopter. As I explored the outside portion of the campus, there was a group of elementary school students walking about and I could feel their excitement as they were being taught a history lesson while interacting with these displays. (Just for the record, the tank was the main attraction for many of these young minds.)

After spending atleast an hour visiting various displays and learning about many aspects of transportation history with in the region, it became very clear that the collection of vehicles and many artifacts live up to the mission statement and the expectations of the museum founder and his intentions for this fascinating display to be enjoyed by the public.

Even though I live in Canada, I have visited the Cole Land Transportation Museum many times and seem to learn something new during each visit. I am Canadian, but part of my of family is American. I have lived in the U.S., and have a deep appreciation for the history represented. As a Photojournalist, I am fascinated by the many stories being told and the unique photography opportunities.

Whether spending time in the Bangor area or just passing through on the I95, the Cole Land Transportation Museum is highly recommended and definitely worth taking the time to visit and explore. For more information visit https://www.colemuseum.org/