Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art

The Everhart Museum of Natural History, Science & Art is a non-profit art and natural history museum located in Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1908 by Dr. Isaiah Fawkes Everhart, a local physician and skilled taxidermist who served as a surgeon during the Civil War. Dr. Everhart's vision was to create an institution that would educate and delight the community of Scranton and the surrounding area.

History

Dr. Everhart conceived the idea for the museum as a means to assemble a comprehensive collection of Pennsylvania's native birds and animals. His personal collection of ornithological specimens formed the core of the museum's early exhibits. Dr. Everhart's estate funded the construction of the museum in Nay Aug Park, with the intention of creating a lasting institution for the education and pleasure of future generations.

The original building of the museum was dedicated on May 30, 1908. Over the years, the museum expanded with two additional wings added by 1929. These changes were part of a broader design by Scranton architects David H. Morgan and Searle von Storch. In the 1960s, a new gallery was built in the basement for temporary exhibitions, and the upper floor was renovated in the 1980s to accommodate more collections and exhibitions.

Governance

Initially, the museum was governed by local judges, as appointed by Dr. Everhart. However, this governance model raised concerns regarding efficiency and funding in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Funding organizations questioned the judges' ability to effectively manage a public non-profit institution, leading to some challenges in maintaining consistent support.

Collections and Exhibitions

The Everhart Museum boasts a diverse range of exhibits, including natural history, science, and art. The museum's permanent galleries include:

• Fossil Gallery: Showcases fossil specimens and casts of prehistoric animals.
• Rocks and Minerals Gallery: Features locally and globally sourced rocks and minerals with informative geological displays.
• Bird Gallery: Houses over 700 preserved birds, many of which were mounted by Dr. Everhart himself, alongside taxidermied mammals, reptiles, and amphibians in realistic dioramas depicting Pennsylvania habitats.
• Regional Art Galleries: Display a variety of artwork from Northeastern Pennsylvania artists.
• Fine Art Gallery: Presents a mix of local and internationally recognized art pieces.
• Dorflinger Glass Gallery: Highlights the craftsmanship of the Dorflinger Glass Company, featuring pieces from historical American houses.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that rotate regularly, ensuring there is always something new for visitors to explore.

Impact and Reception

The Everhart Museum is a unique cultural and educational hub in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Visitors appreciate its blend of natural history, science, and art, as well as its location within the beautiful Nay Aug Park. While some note that the museum could benefit from modernization in exhibit presentation and interactive displays, it remains highly valued for its educational and local cultural significance. The museum's compact size makes it easily accessible for families and casual visitors.

External References

In its role as one of the oldest museums in the region, the Everhart Museum continues to serve as a vital part of Scranton's cultural landscape, fostering a stronger connection between the community and the world around them.