Mississipp Industrial Heritage Museum
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Soule’ Steam Works
Before steam power, most factories and mills were powered by water, wind, horse, or man. The invention of steam engines, the first successful engine invented, helped to power the Industrial Revolution, which totally changed the world. At the turn of the century, steam was the only portable and dependable source of power. Steam engines were used to power trains, ships, factories and even cars. Self-propelled steam engines were extensively used for operating farm and lumber machinery. Soule’ Steam Feed Works is an actual steam engine factory that operated from 1892 until 1980. Soule built a total of 6,500 engines at the plant that were sold around the world; a few still in operation today.
Soule’ is one of five remaining factory sites in the United States that illustrate late 19th century industry processes from raw material to finished product. The belt-driven machine shop boasts the longest line shaft in operation in the country. The site, on 4th street in Meridian, is the last remaining steam engine factory in the U.S.
The Soule’ Steam Works Museum was founded as an IRS 501© non-profit corporation in 2002, to preserve and interpret the historic Soule’ Steam Feed Works factory. Soule Steam Feed Works is a Mississippi Landmark, designated by the Mississippi Legislature, in 2004, as the Official State Historical Industrial Museum. The Museum has been chosen to host a Smithsonian Museum on Main Street exhibition on three occasions, including the current Celebrating America’s Industrial Revolution: WORK, created in collaboration between the Smithsonian and the museum.
“Our community offers many unique experiences for local residents and visitors alike. It is amazing that Soule’, Grand Opera House (MSU Riley Center), Dentzel Carousel, Temple Theater, Meridian Historic Downtown, Merrehope/F.W.Williams houses, Meridian Museum of Art, Jimmie Rodgers 
Collection, The Max and soon to be completed Children’s Museum exist here in Meridian at this strategic location. Our proximity to the Interstate allows ease of access and has the future (and current) potential to attract visitors from around the world,” says Greg Hatcher, Executive Director, Secretary/Treasurer.
To fellow business owners Hatcher says this, “Get involved with the community on as many levels as you can. It is important to support community events and activities. You will meet more people and build important relationships when you participate as a supporter, worker or just as an attendee. Talk positively about your business and your community. Becoming a chamber member shows that you are interested in supporting the local community and its businesses. It shows you as a team player in the community. Working closely together, we can make Meridian a tourist/education destination with a great impact on the local economy.”
Visit the Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum – Soule’ Steam Works. They offer Museum Tours, Soule’ Live Steam Festival, Maker Faire Meridian, Smithsonian Exhibitions and they host public and private events. Soule’ is a great step back in time to see how hard people worked. Celebrate America’s Industrial Heritage at Soule’.
Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum
1808 4th Street, Meridian, MS