Baldwin Locomotive Works
Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
For years the nation's leading locomotive manufacturer, it exported products worldwide. Established here by Matthias Baldwin in 1835, it was an early example of integrated industrial organization, employing more than 15,000 workers. Its 39 buildings encompassed 17 acres and transformed the surrounding area from a rural estate to one of the city's first factory neighborhoods. Relocating to Eddystone in 1928, it ceased production 1956.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Matthias Baldwin established his locomotive works in Philadelphia in 1835, and it grew into the nation's leading builder of steam locomotives, shipping engines around the world. Sprawling across 17 acres and 39 buildings and employing more than 15,000 workers, it pioneered large-scale integrated manufacturing and turned a rural estate into one of the city's first factory neighborhoods. After moving to Eddystone in 1928, the great works finally fell silent in 1956.
Why it matters
Baldwin Locomotive helped put American industry and railroads on the world stage, exemplifying the scale and organization that made the United States a manufacturing powerhouse.
Plan your visit
NearbyMake a day of it — museums, food, and places to stay near this marker.
Museums & culture
- African American Museum in Philadelphia1.1 mi away · 701 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- National Constitution Center1.2 mi away · 525 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Independence Visitor Center1.3 mi away · 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Bridgette Mayer1.3 mi away · 709 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Liberty Bell Center1.3 mi away · 526 Market Street, Philadelphia
- Congress Hall1.3 mi away · Philadelphia, PA
Attractions
- The Universal Sphere0.5 mi away
- Rocky Steps0.6 mi away
- One Liberty Observation Deck0.6 mi away
- Reading Terminal0.8 mi away
- Philly Gun Range0.8 mi away · North Percy Street
- Chinatown Friendship Gate0.9 mi away · 10th and Arch Street
Food & drink
- Burger King1.2 mi away
- Philly Pretzel Factory1.2 mi away
- Munchie’s Cafe1.2 mi away · 728 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Dunkin'1.2 mi away · 634 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
- El Azteca1.2 mi away
- Time & Peace1.2 mi away · 36 South 7th Street, Philadelphia, PA
Places to stay
- Days Inn Philadelphia Convention Center - Philadelphia0.6 mi away · 1227 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Four Points by Sheraton Philadelphia City Center0.7 mi away · 1201 Race Street, Philadelphia
- The Notary Hotel0.7 mi away · 21 North Juniper Street, Philadelphia
- Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City0.7 mi away · 1 East Penn Square, Philadelphia, PA
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Philadelphia - Convention Center, PA0.8 mi away · 1200 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA
- Philadelphia Marriott Downtown0.8 mi away · 1201 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
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Related people
- · Matthias Baldwin
Themes & tags
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