This unique miniature vertical steam engine features a tiny wooden barrel up top. One of the first large donations to the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum was the collection of famed model engine builder Rudy Kouhoupt. After retiring as a chemist, Rudy had a second career building engines and writing magazine articles documenting the process. Many people have built his models, but we have the honor of displaying all of his original prototypes. Rudy’s collection includes scale model engines, locomotives, tractors and more. Additionally, thirteen of Rudy’s model steam engines are hooked up to run on compressed air to demonstrate their function. 

Another look at the barrel-topped vertical steam engine.

Exhibit added: November 25, 2023 - Last modified: January 29, 2024

Presented by The Joe Martin Foundation for Exceptional Craftsmanship