Learn about notable inventor, Elwood Haynes, during a visit to the Elwood Haynes Museum.

Haynes invented the first commercially successful gasoline powered automobile in the United States in 1894, which he termed “America’s First Car” in his early advertising. Haynes conceived the idea of a “Horseless Carriage” while in Portland, Indiana in 1891, and then moved to Kokomo, where he completed the plans and hired Elmer and Edgar Apperson to build the first automobile in 1893. Elwood Haynes test drove the automobile, named “The Pioneer” on July 4, 1894 on Pumpkinvine Pike in Kokomo.

After having discovered an alloy made of pure chromium and pure nickel, he began commercially producing automobiles under the Haynes Apperson logo in 1898. Haynes also invented the alloy “Stellite” in 1906 and stainless steel in 1912. The famous inventor’s former residence now houses a collection of his possessions and inventions.  A revolving exhibit of Haynes automobiles are on display in the garage. Freewill donations are accepted.

Hours: September 1 - May 31
Thursday & Friday: 1pm-4pm
Saturday: 11am-4pm
Sunday: 1pm-4pm

Hours: June 1 - August 31
Tuesday through Saturday: 11am-4pm
Sunday: 1pm-4pm