Mars Area History and Landmarks Society - 2026

04/01/2026

🚂💨 Tired of the daily grind, driving forever, sitting in traffic? We’ve got you covered!

The brilliant minds at MAHLS are thrilled to announce:
Mars Shortline Railroad now offers direct commuter service to Pittsburgh!

Skip the jams, breathe in the fresh country air, and ride in style aboard our state-of-the-art miniature rail system. Perfect for professionals heading into the city — just bring your briefcase, your laptop, and a good sense of balance. 😉

🌅 Morning departures begin immediately from Swaney Pavilion
We promise your commute has never been this fun!

🎟️ Get your hand stamped, hop aboard, and experience commuting the MSRR way.

🎈Complimentary balloon animal upon returning home (limit one per rider, per day)

See YOU at the station!

02/02/2026

Calling all Artists!

In celebration of America's 250th Anniversary, we are looking for patriotic ideas on how to repaint our Plymouth Engine.

We're inviting all of our younger guests to be creative with Red, White, and Blue. Attached is a coloring sheet to be used for the submissions as well as some inspirational photos.

Please have all entries either scanned and emailed to [email protected], PM'd to this Facebook account, or dropped off at the MAHLS campus any Friday from 10am - 2pm no later than March 31st.

Happy Coloring, Happy 250!!

01/30/2026

Due to frigid temperatures and the condition of our parking area, MAHLS Campus will remain closed today, Friday 1/30. No Volunteer gatherings will be held. Stay warm all!

Send a message to learn more

01/05/2026

12/05/2025

Looking for the perfect gift for your favorite Martian? Stop by the MAHLS campus any Friday 10-2pm! Our gift shop is open, just see Mary Jo in the Main Building.

Shirts from $10 - $22
Stocking Stuffers, toys and other gifts $0.50 - $5
Light-up train stations $25

12/02/2025

On this Giving Tuesday, we'd like to thank all of our generous supporters who have volunteered or donated throughout the year. Every dollar is used to sustain our mission of preserving local history while bringing smiles and learning experiences to visitors of all ages.

If you haven't had a chance, or would like to further support us, please consider a donation to our PayPal Giving Fund. We use all contributions responsibly and have some great additions coming for the 2026 season!

https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/1538573

11/02/2025

As our campus sits quiet now for the long haul of winter, MAHLS volunteers would like to offer a sincere THANK YOU to everyone who came by to ride the train, chat, party, tour and otherwise just enjoy our campus. Your smiles, curiosity and generous donations are what keep us coming back year after year.

Our members will be on site and our buildings will be open every Friday, year round, from 10am - 2pm for exploration and lively conversation. Ever thought about joining us? We have many projects (and desserts) just waiting for you! Stop by and say hello!

Shortline Railroad rides will return when our train emerges from hibernation at the end of May, along with new displays and experiences for all.

Until then, Friends!

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween, Mars!!

Bundle up, dress up, bring your sweet tooth and join us for Trick or Treat at the Station - TODAY!!! Friday, October 31st from 10am - 2pm.

Today is also our LAST DAY for Shortline railroad rides of the 2025 season so don't miss out!

(Please be aware that long costumes, skirts, capes, etc are hazardous on the train and will need to be held up while riding).

10/30/2025

MAHLS welcomed Precious People preschoolers this week for one of our favorite events. We absolutely love seeing all the costumes and smiling faces to wrap up our season!

Extra Bonus points to the kiddo who dressed up like a railroad sign. We think you'd make a great MAHLS member!

10/24/2025

Okay folks! We're getting down to it! Only 2 more chances to ride the train before it goes into hibernation for winter.

We are open today, Friday 10/24 from 10am - 2pm for Shortline Railroad Rides and self-guided tours of our campus.

Then, join us on Halloween Friday for a big Trick or Treat the Station finale! Wear your costumes (just be careful with the long ones on the train) and bring your sweet tooth!

**Our campus will continue to be open every Friday from 10am-2pm all winter for tours and lively conversation - we just won't be running the train.**

10/22/2025

Wear your costume, bring your sweet tooth and join us for Trick or Treat at the Station - Friday, October 31st from 10am - 2pm!

This will also be our LAST Shortline railroad rides of the 2025 season so don't miss out!

(Please be aware that long costumes, skirts, capes, etc are hazardous on the train and will need to be held up while riding).