America 250 Semiquincentennial Programs

Explore North Carolina’s early transportation story through a three-part presentation series held in conjunction with America 250 Semiquincentennial events taking place throughout 2026. Scheduled for March, April, and May, the series will highlight railroad development and construction prior to 1860, the origins and use of the Nissen wagon, originally produced in Winston-Salem, and how supplies were moved during the Revolutionary War.

Each presentation begins at 7:00 p.m. and will conclude after one hour. This is a free event that does not require museum admission, but all attendees must pre-register for this presentation. A shuttle bus will be in operation before and after the presentation to transport attendees from parking lot to designated building.

“History of the Nissen Wagon Works in NC”

Nissen Wagon Works began operation in 1834 and stopped operations in the 1940s. Founded by John Philip Nissen, the company produced many wagons that were used for agricultural and general transport. Nissen was located near Waughton, which is now a part of the city of Winston-Salem. Learn about the company and the height of production, which at the time Nissen produced up to 50 wagons daily and became one of the South’s largest manufacturers at the height of production.

This presentation is hosted by Larry Neal, who has served several years as a historian at the North Carolina Transportation Museum. If you need assistance or have any questions before registering, contact Larry Neal at larry.neal@dncr.nc.gov or 704-636-2889.

This presentation will be held in the museum’s Back Shop building near the wagon exhibit.