A Natural Curiosity: The Story of the Bell Museum

The University of Minnesota's Bell Museum of Natural History has grown from a one-room cabinet of curiosities to a premier natural history museum, displaying the wonders of Minnesota and the world. This illustrated book chronicles the museum's 150-year history, including its contributions to wildlife telemetry, conservation biology, and scientific learning, and showcases its new, reimagined museum, complete with a planetarium that inspired a NASA astronaut.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2022
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

The University of Minnesota's Bell Museum of Natural History, a cornerstone of cultural heritage, has evolved from a modest one-room cabinet of curiosities established in 1872. Over the years, it has grown into a prominent institution, showcasing the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Minnesota and the world beyond. Within its walls, visitors of all ages are invited to embark on a journey of exploration, understanding, and appreciation for our natural environment. Whether seasoned observers or curious onlookers, the museum offers a delightful experience of discovery, fostering a deep connection between humanity and the natural world.

A Natural Curiosity: A Tale Well Told is a captivating journey through 150 years of remarkable scientific advancement. This beautifully illustrated book, drawing upon a wealth of materials unearthed during the museum's recent relocation to its new building, chronicles the extraordinary discoveries, pivotal moments, and remarkable individuals that have shaped the Bell Museum into the exceptional institution it is today.

Among the captivating stories featured in this book are those of ornithologists, botanists, entrepreneurs, and conservationists. Readers will delve into the world of magnificent dioramas created by renowned artist Francis Lee Jaques, explore the intriguing adventures behind some of the museum's most peculiar specimens, such as the bones of Philippine orangutans, moonrats, a high-flying moose, and a simple fungi sample that saved a man's life, and witness the dramatic advancements made by the museum in wildlife telemetry, conservation biology, and scientific learning. These groundbreaking initiatives are driven by a steadfast commitment to protecting the planet's fragile biodiversity.

In a photographic finale, readers are treated to a tour of the new and reimagined museum, complete with a planetarium that inspired a young Minnesota boy to pursue a career as a NASA astronaut. The museum's transformation reflects its unwavering dedication to advancing knowledge, inspiring curiosity, and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world.

The Bell Museum's journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier natural history museum is a testament to the enduring power of curiosity, dedication, and innovation. It stands as a shining example of how institutions can play a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world and preserving its precious natural resources for generations to come.

Dimension: 254 x 229 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517910365