The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History will be offering two special educational programs this summer – the new Sundays at the Southern and the ever-popular Brain Train. Both will run on selected days during the months of June and July and are free with regular Museum admission.

Sundays at the Southern consists of a series of topical tours relevant to museum exhibits every Sunday afternoon at 1:30pm, 3:30pm and 4:30pm, June 2 through July 28. It is a great opportunity to get family and vacationing guests out of the house for an enjoyable family activity. This summer’s offerings include: The Story of the Merci Boxcar, showcasing this gesture of gratitude from France after the world wars; All Aboard for Steam Locomotives & the General, a discussion on the technology and development of the steam locomotive; Pullman Porters, centering on the vital history and role that Pullman Porters played in the struggle for civil rights; Civil War Soldier, a special spotlight on the story of United States Colored Troops; and Railroad Telegraphs & Signals, an examination of how the invention of the telegraph revolutionized communications and railroad operations.

The returning Brain Train is the perfect place to create and invent! This family-friendly S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) program consists of workshops focused on different train-themed topics that include hands-on experimentation and problem-solving. June’s theme is Power in Motion, where visitors can explore potential and kinetic energy by building and racing rubber band cars and boats. July highlights Rocket Science, in which participants learn about the principles of aerodynamics and history of streamlining vehicles through the creation of streamlined rockets. Brain Train is recommended for kids in K-5th grade and their adults. Older and younger siblings are welcome to attend.

Program schedules and further information can be found at southernmuseum.org.