Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum — Washington, Missouri

Discover the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum in Missouri

Located in Washington, Missouri, the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum offers visitors a rare look into one of America’s most iconic and enduring pipe-making traditions. Situated next to the company’s long-running manufacturing facility, the museum showcases the craftsmanship, history, and cultural impact of corn cob pipes that have been produced here for generations.

Why it’s special:
Missouri Meerschaum isn’t just preserving history—it’s still actively manufacturing corn cob pipes on the same site. The museum connects visitors to a living American industry, blending heritage displays with real-world production happening just beyond the exhibits.

History/Story of Missouri Meerschaum

Missouri Meerschaum was founded in 1869, making it the oldest continuously operating corn cob pipe manufacturer in the world. What began as a local Missouri craft grew into an internationally recognized brand, supplying pipes used by everyday smokers, collectors, and even iconic figures like General Douglas MacArthur. The company remains family-owned and proudly based in Washington, Missouri.

What You’ll See & Do at the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum

• Explore exhibits detailing the history of corn cob pipe manufacturing

• View vintage pipe designs, molds, tools, and advertising materials

• Learn how corn cobs are transformed into finished smoking pipes

• Discover the role Missouri Meerschaum pipes played in American culture and history

• Observe factory operations from designated viewing areas when available

Hands-On Elements: Educational displays and close-up views of tools and materials
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed inside the museum
Souvenirs & Extras: Factory store offering pipes, accessories, collectibles, and branded merchandise

Pricing of the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum

Museum admission is free of charge.
Purchases at the factory store are optional.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes
Format: Self-guided museum visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round on weekdays
Audience: Adults, history enthusiasts, collectors, industrial heritage travelers
Accessibility: Partially accessible; some display areas may have limited access
Safety & Restrictions: No smoking inside museum spaces
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Small groups welcome; advance notice recommended
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes
Facilities: Museum exhibits, factory store, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed on weekends and major holidays
Working hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Nearby

• Downtown Washington historic district

• Missouri Riverfront Trail

• James W. Rennick Riverfront Park

FAQs About Visiting the Missouri Meerschaum Corn Cob Pipe Museum

Is this a working factory tour?
No. This is a museum experience, though limited views of active manufacturing areas may be visible from designated spaces.

Can I buy pipes directly from the factory?
Yes. The on-site factory store sells a wide selection of pipes and accessories.

Are children allowed in the museum?
Yes, though the exhibits are primarily educational and geared toward adult visitors.

Do I need to reserve a visit in advance?
No reservations are required for individual visitors during regular museum hours.

Are factory operations visible every day?
Manufacturing typically occurs on weekdays, but visibility may vary depending on production schedules.