About Tamworth Powerstation Museum
Tamworth Powerstation Museum features a replica of the first power station building–constructed right on the same site in 1888 where, with the turn of a gold key, Mayoress Mrs. Elizabeth Piper brought light to the streets of Tamworth for the first time. It’s an awe-inspiring moment that visitors can experience for themselves, along with many other exhibits showcasing the museum’s impressive conservation of Australian heritage. In fact, the Tamworth Powerstation Museum achieved National Significance status in 2010, cementing its position as a national treasure. Since its opening in 1988, it has remained Australia’s first and foremost all-electrical museum, drawing visitors from far and wide with its unique and captivating insight into the past.
The Municipal Electric Showroom building has undergone a fascinating transformation and now boasts an impressive range of unique exhibits. Visitors are instantly immersed in a pictorial history of electricity, tracing its early development and impact on modern society. But it doesn’t stop there. The museum also showcases an extensive collection of 20th-century electric appliances for heating, cooling, cleaning, cooking, and entertainment. And if that’s not enough to pique your interest, the museum houses one of Australia’s largest collections of electric light bulbs, machinery, and technical instruments. However, the highlight of any visit to the museum has to be the two John Fowler steam-driven engines – the only two of their type still operating in the world today – and working replicas of the 1888 Crompton Pattern No 15 Dynamos, representing the beginnings of electric street lighting in Tamworth and Australia. A trip to this museum is a must for anyone interested in the fascinating development of electricity.
What to do at Tamworth Powerstation Museum
The Tamworth Powerstation Museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of electrical innovation. In 1888, Tamworth made history by becoming the first city in Australia to enjoy the many benefits of municipal electric street lighting. The momentous occasion is preserved at the museum, established in 1988, on the site where the 1888 steam engines powered the street lighting system. Today, the refurbished 1907 Power Station/Municipal Electric Showroom building houses a range of unique exhibits that showcase the important role electricity has played in the development of modern technology. As Australia’s only dedicated electrical museum, we invite visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating history of an industry that continues to power our world today.
The Tamworth Powerstation Museum is a truly unique destination for visitors searching for a true historical experience. With a wealth of fascinating exhibits to explore, the two John Fowler steam-driven engines stand out as the highlight of any trip to the museum. These remarkable machines represent a real piece of history and are the only two of their kind still operating in the world today. The Crompton Pattern No 15 Dynamos, fully functioning replicas dating back to the late 1800s, offer visitors a glimpse into the earliest days of electric street lighting in Tamworth and beyond. During events like the Country Music Festival, visitors can witness these incredible machines in action, creating an unforgettable moment. The museum’s success over the years can be attributed to its dedicated volunteer team and loyal sponsors, all of whom help ensure its continued operation. Thanks to the recent adoption and update of a Strategic Plan by the Tamworth Regional Council in 2021, the museum is well-positioned to continue providing visitors with an exceptional experience for years.
One local company in Tamworth that is involved in this tourist attraction site is:
Website: Concreters Tamworth
Address: 3 Byrnes Ave, Tamworth NSW 2340
Phone: (02) 5743 2717