News from the Museum
Contributed by Dr. Elisabeth Whitney
Executive Director of the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature
The wonderful secret that is getting out in Anchorage . . .
So often we struggle to find something to do that does not cost an arm and a leg and is also fun and interesting. The secret is out about the little Museum that fits this description. It is such a friendly place!
When the night gets long and the northern lights ribbon across our skies and you have cabin fever, come on down to the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature at 201 N. Bragaw Street in the Mountain View neighborhood of Anchorage. All are welcome!
If you ask a child about dinosaurs in Anchorage, most likely they’ll tell you all the names of the major dinosaurs and he or she will also probably grin and tell you can see the “very big Pterosaur” at the dino museum. When you walk through the door, T. rex is wearing the biggest Santa Claus hat you have ever seen. You are quickly greeted and sent on your scavenger hunt way to explore the museum and learn all kinds of interesting facts. Really, facts?
Yes, . . .
Did you know there were lions in Alaska long ago? Have you ever touched a coprolite (that is science speak for dino poop)? You definitely want to tell your friends that you have touched dino poop. . . Or, have you ever seen plain rocks pop into brilliant colors under a UV light? Did you know that early Alaskans used seal guts to make waterproof clothing and that the Arctic Fox is part chameleon?
Come walk in the magic. Be transported back millions of years when you see the footprints of people and animals and imagine walking in their footsteps or see a real fossilized dinosaur nest of eggs that have survived the ages. Consider this, . . . we think dinosaurs had feathers, but why would they if they couldn’t fly? Come learn all kinds of fascinating facts about your Alaska. Did you know there is a whole reef of life under the arctic sea ice?
Also, every Saturday at 3pm we have Storytime for children, and our dinosaur dig pits are always a huge favorite. Don’t miss our science and nature gift shop for your holiday needs, too. We hope to see you soon!
Dr. Elisabeth Whitney
Executive Director of the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature
Painting by James Havens