Marshall Steam Museum/ Friends Of Auburn Heights

The mission of the Friends of Auburn Heights is to connect generations and foster excitement for Auburn Valley State Park, steam-era technology and American life at the dawn of the automotive age.

The Auburn Heights estate (within Auburn Valley State Park, formerly Auburn Heights Preserve) includes the Marshall family home and carriage house listed on the National Register of Historic Places, site of the first Stanley automobile dealership in Delaware; the Marshall Steam Museum, housing a world-class collection of vintage automobiles; a 1/8-size live steam railroad operating on the property; and approximately 456 acres of surrounding park land.

To accomplish this mission, the Friends of Auburn Heights strives to:

• Conduct educational tours of the property, collections and buildings at Auburn Heights;
• Teach the technology of early transportation by encouraging the public to observe, inspect and experience the vintage cars and trains;
• Initiate outreach programs for current and prospective steam car operators and owners through programs and publications that address historic steam car maintenance and operation;
• Offer experiential programs and activities for all generations that inspires a lifelong love of learning and a curiosity in science, technology and history.

The Friends of Auburn Heights is a nonprofit organization established in 2004 and dedicated to sparking discovery and creating lifelong memories.

With its small staff, supported by a dedicated army of volunteers, the organization hosts public events and offers a growing roster of educational programs for schools, libraries, scouts, and more!

The museum is also open for special events throughout the year.

Egg Hunts Friday and Saturday before Easter Sunday, 12:00 – 3:00 pm. Advance registration is required for this popular spring event that includes timed egg hunts for kids up to age 12! No antique auto rides available. 

Train Day First Sunday in May, 12:30 – 4:30 pm An event for train lovers of all ages! Rides on our 1/8-scale trains are included as part of this event. No antique auto rides available. 

Steamin’ Day First Sundays, June – November, 12:30 – 4:30 pm. Our signature event that includes something for all ages! Rides on our 1/8-scale trains and our antique autos are included as part of this event.

Holiday Trains at Auburn Heights First Saturday and Sunday in December, 4 to 7 pm. All aboard for holiday cheer! Immerse yourself in the wonders of the holiday and see the beautiful Auburn Heights estate as you’ve never seen it before with outdoor lighted displays and working model railroad layouts (HO, O, Gauge 1 and Standard). Take a ride on the AVRR or, for an additional fee, tour the first floor of the festively decorated 1897 Marshall Mansion.