Most Wisconsinites Have Never Heard Of This Fascinating Transportation Museum

What do bicycles and rocket ships have in common? They’re both modes of transportation! And you can learn all about both – and a whole lot more – at the Deke Slayton Museum. Filled with an array of memorabilia, including the only moon rock in Wisconsin, this fascinating museum is a must-visit for all ages.

The Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bicycle Museum is one of two museums housed in the historic Masonic Temple in Sparta.

Two museums in one, the Monroe County Local History Museum occupies the first floor of the building and the Deke Slayton Museum is located on the second floor.

A great visit for the young and old alike, the museum focuses on the progression of transportation – from antique bicycles to modern-day space missions.

There are over 100 unique bikes on display at the museum, which is fitting since Sparta is known as the “bicycling capital of America.” That’s not Sparta’s only claim to fame, though.

It’s also the hometown of Deke Slayton, one of America's first astronauts. Today, museum visitors can get a close-up look at Slayton’s space suit as well as several artifacts on loan from NASA and a real piece of moon rock.

Aviation is another important part of transportation history that’s covered at the museum.

In addition to dozens of model planes and a hang glider, there are two real planes on display at the museum.

The fun doesn’t end with the museum’s exhibits, though.

There’s also a children’s area, which features a loft, space capsule, and astronaut costumes.

Living up to its catchphrase, “from sprockets to rockets,” the Deke Slayton Museum showcases the transportation industry like never before.

For more information, call the Deke Slayton Museum at (608) 269-0033. You can also visit the museum’s website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about this unique museum? Ever visited? Know of another fascinating museum with an obscure reputation? Tell us!

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