Springfield Science Museum

Springfield Science Museum, nestled in the heart of Springfield, Massachusetts, is a treasure trove of natural history and scientific wonders that has captivated visitors for generations. Established in 1859, this venerable institution has evolved over the years, yet it continues to inspire curiosity and a love for science among its visitors.

A Walk Through History

The Springfield Science Museum's journey began in December 1859, initially housed in Springfield's City Hall. It started as a museum of natural history and a collection of curiosities, showcasing geological specimens, Revolutionary War relics, and more. The museum then moved to the city's library in 1871, before finding a more permanent home in the Springfield Art Museum in the early 1890s.

By February 1899, the museum began transitioning to its current building, officially opening as the Springfield Museum of Natural History and Ethnology on October 16, 1899. The building has undergone significant expansions, first in 1934 and then in 1970, to accommodate its growing collection and the increasing number of visitors.

Exhibitions That Amaze

The museum's exhibits are a delightful blend of the past and present, offering something for everyone. One of the oldest and most cherished exhibits is the Hall of Native American Cultures, which features a diorama depicting Native Americans engaged in tool-making and cooking. This exhibit, along with the Hall of Habitats, which showcases taxidermied animals in their natural settings, has been a staple since the 1930s.

Another fascinating exhibit is the African Hall, where visitors can marvel at a diverse array of taxidermied animals from the savanna. The hall includes a chimpanzee that once lived in the Forest Park Zoo until 1967 and a giraffe acquired in 1985. The attention to detail in these displays transports visitors to the heart of Africa, providing an immersive experience.

For those with a penchant for prehistoric creatures, the Dinosaur Hall is a must-visit. This exhibit features a life-sized model of a Tyrannosaurus rex, installed in April 1975, along with a Stegosaurus mold and a leg bone of an Alamosaurus. These specimens, collected during an Amherst College expedition in the 1920s, offer a glimpse into the ancient world of dinosaurs.

The Seymour Planetarium

One of the museum's crown jewels is the Seymour Planetarium, the oldest operating planetarium in the United States. Opened in November 1937, the planetarium was a marvel of its time, featuring a custom-made star ball created by local craftsmen Frank and Stanley Korkosz. This unique piece of equipment allowed the museum to offer stunning star shows without the need for expensive Zeiss equipment.

The planetarium has recently undergone a significant renovation, reopening in April 2023 with modernized facilities. It continues to be a favorite among visitors, offering captivating shows that explore the wonders of the universe.

Observatory and More

The Springfield Science Museum also boasts its own observatory, equipped with a 20-inch telescope that is periodically open to the public. This facility provides an opportunity for visitors to gaze at the stars and planets, fostering a deeper appreciation for the cosmos.

Throughout the years, the museum has hosted numerous temporary exhibitions covering a wide range of topics, from natural gas to extinction and the history of bicycles. These exhibits ensure that there is always something new and exciting to discover at the museum.

Commitment to Repatriation

The Springfield Science Museum has also been actively involved in the repatriation of cultural artifacts. In 1985, the museum loaned the Luman Andrews collection of Native American objects to Southington, Connecticut, where it was originally collected. The museum has repatriated various items, including Seneca masks, Klamath jewelry, and a Navajo bag, in accordance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).

In 1997, the museum repatriated a set of human remains to Hawaii, and in 2023, it reported the repatriation of 25 additional remains. The museum continues to work towards returning cultural items to their rightful communities, demonstrating its commitment to ethical stewardship of its collections.

Plan Your Visit

The Springfield Science Museum is a place where history, science, and culture converge, offering a rich and diverse experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're fascinated by dinosaurs, intrigued by the stars, or interested in cultural history, the museum has something to offer.

So, whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Springfield, make sure to include the Springfield Science Museum in your itinerary. It's a journey through time and space that promises to educate, entertain, and inspire.