Lincoln, Nebraska is the home of the National Museum of Roller Skating. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and the future of this all-American pastime. Located at 4730 South Street, the museum is filled with photographs, memorabilia, artifacts and historical materials that give visitors a fun and interesting look at the sport of roller skating from its humble beginnings to the current roller skating craze of today. The National Museum of Roller Skating is actually housed within the USA Roller Sports headquarters. If it has anything to do with roller skating, chances are the National Museum of Roller Skating has something about it.
The museum is filled with many interesting things, including both permanent and temporary exhibits. This means that there is always something new to see for everyone. The museum has roller skates dating from as early as 1819. This is the largest collection of historical roller skates in the world. They also have interesting information on roller skate patents and various personal artifacts from people who have contributed to the sport of roller skating over the years. These items include medals, costumes, photographs, artwork, etc. The films, videotapes and other media provide a fascinating look at roller skating. The museum also has information on the evolution of the roller skate wheel, and unusual memorabilia from roller rinks around the country.
Some of the current exhibits include the history of inline skating, which was the original form of roller skates until James Plimpton invented roller skates with four wheels. Inline skates have become very popular again but visitors might be surprised to see what current inline skates have in common with their ancestors.
Another exhibit is all about the history of roller skating as an art form, such as roller dancing. This interesting exhibit gives visitors a look into the history of roller skaters who were also dancers. Of course, the museum would not be complete without exhibits on speed skating, roller derby skating, and the interesting sport of roller hockey. This museum truly does cover the width and breadth of the roller skating world.
The National Museum of Roller Skating offers something for everyone. Some of their special programs include a free guided tour by the museum curator on the first Friday of every month at 12:15 p.m. Group tours can be arranged in advance, with a Treasure Hunt for children’s tours. The staff of the museum is also able to provide information about roller skating for research purposes. Archival materials are available for use at the museum but an appointment is required. Additionally, the museum store has a collection of gifts and souvenir items that are related to roller skating.
The National Museum of Roller Skating is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. This attraction is closed on Sundays and all major holidays. There is no charge for admission.. To contact the museum, call (402) 483-7551, ext. 16.
The National Museum of Roller Skating – Lincoln, Nebraska
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