Field Museum of Natural History

Overview

The Field Museum of Natural History is a leading U.S. nonprofit organization based in Chicago, Illinois. It is one of the largest and most renowned natural history museums globally, known for its extensive educational and scientific programs, as well as its vast collections of specimens and artifacts.

History

Established in 1893 as the Columbian Museum of Chicago, the museum was formed to house collections from the World's Columbian Exposition. It was named after Marshall Field, its first major benefactor, who provided significant financial support for its establishment. In 1905, the museum's name was officially changed to the Field Museum of Natural History to reflect its focus on natural sciences, including anthropology, botany, geology, and zoology. Between 1943 and 1966, it was briefly known as the Chicago Natural History Museum, before returning to its current name.

Collections and Exhibitions

The museum houses over 24 million specimens and objects, encompassing a broad range of biodiversity, gems, meteorites, fossils, and extensive anthropological collections. Notable exhibits include "Sue," the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, and "Inside Ancient Egypt," featuring mummies and artifacts. Other exhibitions include "Underground Adventure" and the "Grainger Hall of Gems."

Research and Education

The Field Museum supports significant scientific research and educational initiatives. Its library contains over 275,000 volumes focused on biological systematics, evolutionary biology, geology, archaeology, and ethnology. The museum conducts field expeditions globally, sponsors student training programs, and collaborates with public exhibitions and educational initiatives. It also publishes scholarly research journals and engages in conservation efforts both locally and internationally.

Location and Architecture

Located in Grant Park on the Near South Side of Chicago, the museum's building was designed by architect Peirce Anderson and constructed between 1915 and 1921. The architectural style is Classical Revival, and it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1975. The museum is part of Chicago's lakefront Museum Campus, alongside the John G. Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium.

Attendance and Impact

The Field Museum attracts over a million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited museums in the United States. It contributes significantly to Chicago's cultural and educational landscape, ranking alongside institutions like the American Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian Institution in terms of size and influence.

Conservation Efforts

From its inception, the museum has emphasized conservation. In recent decades, it has expanded its role in both local and international environmental efforts. The museum's conservation work includes conducting biodiversity inventories and supporting the protection of natural areas. These efforts have contributed to the preservation of millions of acres of forests and water bodies around the world.