Over 2,000 square meters of exhibition space show how people used the energy of water and fire in the past. One focus is on the history of iron processing in the Sauerland, as well as a folklore and cultural history exhibition area. There are also various old power machines on display and the "Technization of Agriculture" section.
At the original site of a tool, link chain and machine factory in the Salwey Valley, the exhibition gives an impression of the working methods of the former small iron industry. The focus is on former industrial enterprises such as iron hammers and chain forges. The tour takes visitors through a large agricultural exhibition on the subject of "From manual labor to machines" and through an impressive collection of historical power engines, including two steam engines, which are considered to be the oldest working ones in Germany.
The coexistence of early industry and the rural environment vividly illustrates the traditional ways of life and economy. You feel transported back to the generation of your grandparents and great-grandparents.
During the Eslohe Steam Days at the end of May and the end of September, visitors can see live demonstrations of the steam engines, some of which are 150 years old. In order to present this area in an entertaining way on normal opening days as well, the Eslohe Museum presents itself in a multimedia way and with more information about the history and functions of the steam engines. The Eslohe Museum is one of the most visited museums in the Hochsauerland district.
The DampfLandLeute Museum Eslohe is a member of the >Museumslandschaft Hochsauerland association and a highlight of >WasserEisenLand - Industriekultur in Südwestfalen.
The outdoor area of the DampfLandLeute Museum is one of the 43 Sauerland-Seelenorte in the Sauerland-Wanderdorf. The history of the Seelenorte and other useful information can be found at www.sauerland-seelenorte.de.