Where else can one find a real mummified human corpse, stuffed pandas, and a full fledged T-Rex skeleton besides the Academy of Natural Sciences? (Well, perhaps the corpse could be found somewhere else in West Philadelphia, but that's not the point.) Founded in 1812, the Academy brings scientists together for a wide array of research purposes. Today three main parts comprise the Academy of Natural Sciences: research, education and the museum, which is home to more than 17 million specimens of plants, animals and other organisms, including extremely rare specimens dating back millions of years through geological time.
The Academy also bears connections to the University, as Dr. Joseph Leidy (of Leidy Laboratories) is considered the father of American vertebrate paleontology. This leading scientist and former Penn professor stands proudly outside in statue form, greeting all those who approach the building from the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
The museum is appropriate for all ages and is open seven days a week. The permanent exhibits include an impressive collection of dinosaurs, dioramas and a live animal center. The museum also holds various traveling exhibits, and "DOGS: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend" opens this June and runs until September. DOGS is set to be the most comprehensive traveling exhibition about man's best friend and will provide insight into their history, biology, evolution and more.
On a tragic note, the museum also has a section on its third floor dedicated to animal extinctions which are predominantly due to human causes. But Philadelphia can rest assured that the Academy's mission is to "create the basis for a healthy and sustainable planet through exploration, research, and education." A list of the Academy's publications is available on its website, in addition to online exhibitions and digital image collections.
The Academy of Natural Sciences is a fun and interesting way to spend an afternoon, especially with relatives and younger children.
