What is the primary function of the Natural History Museum in London?

The Natural History Museum in London is dedicated to exhibiting a vast array of specimens from various segments of natural history, serving as both a public exhibition space and a center for research.

Where is the Natural History Museum located, and what other major museums are nearby?

The Natural History Museum is situated on Exhibition Road in South Kensington, London. It is located alongside two other major museums: the Science Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

What are the five main collections housed within the Natural History Museum?

The museum's extensive collection comprises approximately 80 million items spread across five main collections: botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology, and zoology.

What areas of specialization does the Natural History Museum focus on for research?

The museum functions as a research center specializing in taxonomy, identification, and conservation, contributing to the understanding of life and earth sciences.

What historical scientific figures are associated with specimens held by the museum?

The museum holds specimens collected by significant figures in scientific history, such as Charles Darwin, whose collections are part of the museum's valuable historical and scientific assets.

What architectural features make the Natural History Museum distinctive, and what nickname is associated with it?

The museum is renowned for its ornate architecture, often described as a 'cathedral of nature.' This is exemplified by its grand central hall, which previously featured a large Diplodocus cast and now displays a blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling.

What is the role of the Natural History Museum Library?

The Natural History Museum Library holds an extensive collection of books, journals, manuscripts, and artwork related to the museum's scientific departments and research, though access is by appointment only.

What was the original official name of the Natural History Museum, and when did it officially change?

Although commonly known as the Natural History Museum, it was officially named the British Museum (Natural History) until 1992. The formal title change to the Natural History Museum occurred with the Museums and Galleries Act of 1992.

Who is credited as the founder of the Natural History Museum?

The foundation of the museum's collection is attributed to Sir Hans Sloane, an Ulster doctor whose significant natural history specimens were purchased by the British Government.

How was Sir Hans Sloane's collection acquired by the British Government?

Sir Hans Sloane's extensive collection of natural history specimens was purchased by the British Government, funded by a lottery, at a price considerably lower than its market value at the time.

What issues plagued the natural history departments of the British Museum in its early days, prior to the move?

In the early 19th century, the natural history departments faced significant problems with specimen preservation, leading to the loss or sale of many items. There were also issues with staff appointments, often based on favoritism rather than expertise, and instances of mental illness among staff.

How did Richard Owen reform the natural history departments?

Richard Owen, appointed Superintendent in 1856, implemented significant changes that improved the institution. His reforms are credited with transforming the museum into an institution accessible and valuable to everyone, changing public expectations of museums.

Why was a new building needed for the natural history collections?

The existing British Museum site had limited space, prompting the palaeontologist Richard Owen to advocate for a separate building to house the growing natural history departments.

Who designed the Alfred Waterhouse building, and what architectural style did he employ?

The Alfred Waterhouse building, which houses the Natural History Museum, was designed by Alfred Waterhouse. He adopted an idiosyncratic Romanesque style, influenced by his travels in continental Europe, and significantly revised the initial competition-winning plans.

What material was used extensively in the Waterhouse building's construction, and why?

The Waterhouse building extensively utilizes architectural terracotta tiles on its interiors and exteriors. This material was chosen to help the building withstand the sooty atmosphere prevalent in Victorian London.

How did the sculptures on the terracotta tiles reflect Owen's views on Darwin's theories?

The terracotta tiles feature relief sculptures of flora and fauna, with living species in the west wings and extinct species in the east wings. This separation, requested by Richard Owen, was seen as a subtle rebuttal to Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection, although Waterhouse included some anomalies like bats among extinct animals.

When did the Natural History Museum building open, and what was the initial reception?

The new museum building opened on April 18, 1881. Upon opening, it received mixed reviews from the media, but generally, it was viewed positively as a contribution to society.

What legal changes led to the Natural History Museum becoming an independent institution?

Although legally separated from the British Museum in 1963, the institution retained the name 'British Museum (Natural History)'. It became fully independent with its own board of trustees through the British Museum Act 1963, and its formal title finally changed to the Natural History Museum with the Museums and Galleries Act 1992.

When did the museum merge with the Geological Museum, and what was the Geological Museum known for?

The Natural History Museum merged with the adjacent Geological Museum in 1985. The Geological Museum was famous for its exhibitions, including an active volcano model and an earthquake machine, and for hosting the world's first computer-enhanced exhibition, 'Treasures of the Earth'.

What is the Darwin Centre, and what does it house?

The Darwin Centre is a modern development adjacent to the main building, designed to house the museum's vast collections of preserved specimens and provide workspaces for scientific staff. Phase 1 houses zoological 'spirit collections' (organisms preserved in alcohol), and Phase 2 houses the entomology and botanical collections.

What is notable about the architecture of Phase 2 of the Darwin Centre?

Phase 2 of the Darwin Centre was designed by C. F. Møller Architects and is shaped like a giant, eight-story cocoon, housing the entomology and botanical collections.

What is 'Archie', and where can the public view it?

'Archie' is an 8.62-meter-long giant squid, collected alive in 2004. It is housed in the Darwin Centre's Phase 1 building and can be viewed by the public through special 'Spirit Collection Tours'.

What is the Attenborough Studio, and what is its purpose?

The Attenborough Studio, named after broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, is a multimedia studio within the Darwin Centre Phase 2. It serves as an environment for educational events and collaborations, including 'Nature Live' talks, in partnership with the BBC's Natural History Unit.

What was 'Dippy', and what happened to it?

'Dippy' was a 105-foot-long replica of a Diplodocus skeleton that was a prominent exhibit in the museum's central hall for over 112 years. It was removed in early 2017 to be replaced by the skeleton of a blue whale and subsequently went on a tour of various UK museums.

Who gifted the Diplodocus cast known as 'Dippy' to the museum?

The Diplodocus cast, nicknamed 'Dippy', was a gift from the Scottish-American industrialist Andrew Carnegie, who paid £2,000 for its creation.

What replaced 'Dippy' in the museum's central hall, and what is its nickname?

The actual skeleton of a young blue whale, measuring 82 feet long and weighing 4.5 tonnes, replaced 'Dippy'. This skeleton is nicknamed 'Hope'.

What is the significance of the 'Hope' blue whale skeleton's display?

The 'Hope' skeleton, which had been in storage for 42 years after being found stranded in Ireland in 1891, was displayed in the museum's Hintze Hall after the removal of Dippy. Its construction and display were documented in a BBC Horizon special.

What are the four color-coded zones of the museum's galleries?

The museum is divided into four color-coded zones: the Red Zone (themed around the Earth's history), the Green Zone (themed around the evolution of the planet), the Blue Zone (themed around the diversity of life), and the Orange Zone (focused on science at work and relaxation).

What can visitors find in the Red Zone of the museum?

The Red Zone, entered from Exhibition Road, focuses on the changing history of the Earth. It includes galleries like 'Earth's Treasury' with minerals and gemstones, 'Lasting Impressions' with touchable specimens, the Earth Hall featuring a Stegosaurus skeleton, and exhibits on human evolution, volcanoes, and earthquakes.

What notable exhibits are located in the Green Zone?

The Green Zone, accessible from the Cromwell Road entrance, explores the evolution of the planet. It features the Hintze Hall with the blue whale skeleton 'Hope' and a giant sequoia, as well as galleries on Birds, Creepy Crawlies, Fossil Marine Reptiles, Minerals, The Vault, and Fossils from the UK.

What does the Blue Zone of the museum focus on, and what are some of its key exhibits?

The Blue Zone explores the diversity of life on Earth. Key exhibits include the Dinosaurs gallery, displays on Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles, Mammals, Marine Invertebrates, and the Treasures in the Cadogan Gallery.

What is the purpose of the Orange Zone?

The Orange Zone is designed to allow the public to see science in action and also provides spaces for relaxation. It includes the Wildlife Garden, the Darwin Centre, and the Zoology Spirit Building.

What are some of the unique or significant items highlighted in the museum's collection?

The museum's collection includes a wide range of highlights such as the Otumpa iron meteorite, fragments of the Nakhla meteorite (suggesting water on Mars), the Latrobe nugget (a large gold crystal cluster), an Apollo 16 Moon rock sample, the Ostro Stone (a large blue topaz), the Aurora Pyramid of Hope (colored diamonds), the first ichthyosaur and plesiosaur skulls discovered, various dinosaur skeletons including 'Sophie' the Stegosaurus, the first Archaeopteryx specimen, a rare dodo skeleton, the last Great Auk from the British Isles, and Neanderthal skulls.

What educational initiatives does the Natural History Museum undertake?

The museum runs various educational programs, including a 'How Science Works' workshop for students, and played a key role in the designation of the Jurassic Coast as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They also created gallery characters like Carl Linnaeus and Mary Anning to engage visitors with stories of discovery.

How does the museum engage the public with its scientific work?

The museum engages the public through initiatives like the 'How Science Works' workshop, the creation of historical 'gallery characters' to share anecdotes, and the BBC documentary series 'Museum of Life'. They also host events like 'Nature Live' talks and participate in Fossil Festivals.

What is the admission policy for the Natural History Museum?

Admission to the Natural History Museum is free for its permanent exhibitions and many events, although certain temporary exhibits or special shows may require a fee.

What expertise does the museum combine for scientific research?

The museum combines its life and earth science collections with expertise in taxonomy, systematics, biodiversity, natural resources, planetary science, evolution, and informatics to address scientific questions.

What role did the museum play in the designation of the Jurassic Coast?

The Natural History Museum led efforts to secure the designation of the Jurassic Coast in Devon and Dorset as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been a lead partner in the Lyme Regis Fossil Festivals.

What is the nearest London Underground station to the museum?

The closest London Underground station to the Natural History Museum is South Kensington, which has a tunnel connecting directly to the museum entrances.

How is disabled access provided at the museum?

Disabled access to the museum is provided via Museum Lane, located immediately to the north of the building.

In which popular culture works has the Natural History Museum been featured?

The museum has been featured in films such as 'One of Our Dinosaurs Is Missing,' 'Paddington,' and 'The Mummy.' It has also appeared in music videos by McFly, documentaries like 'David Attenborough's Natural History Museum Alive,' the video game 'Tomb Raider III,' and TV shows like 'The Amazing Race 33' and 'The Essex Serpent'.

What is the Natural History Museum at Tring?

The Natural History Museum at Tring is an outpost located in Tring, Hertfordshire. It was originally built by Lionel Walter Rothschild and was acquired by the Natural History Museum in 1938, later being renamed to its current designation.

What specific items are mentioned as highlights of the museum's collection related to space exploration?

Among the space-related highlights are the Apollo 16 Moon rock sample collected in 1972 and fragments of the Nakhla meteorite from Egypt, which provided early evidence of aqueous processes on Mars.

What is the significance of the 'Broken Hill skull' held by the museum?

The 'Broken Hill skull,' discovered in Zambia, is a Middle Paleolithic cranium now classified as Homo heidelbergensis. It is a significant find for understanding early human evolution.

What is the 'Ostro Stone' and why is it notable?

The 'Ostro Stone' is a flawless blue topaz gemstone weighing 9,381 carats (approximately 2 kg), making it the largest of its kind in the world and a notable highlight in the museum's mineral collection.

What is the museum's connection to the Jurassic Coast?

The Natural History Museum played a leading role in the campaign to designate the Jurassic Coast as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a key partner in related events like the Lyme Regis Fossil Festivals.

What is the 'Cocoon' mentioned in relation to the Darwin Centre?

The 'Cocoon' refers to the distinctive eight-story, cocoon-shaped building designed by C. F. Møller Architects that houses the entomology and botanical collections in Phase 2 of the Darwin Centre.

What historical context is provided for the museum's terracotta facade sculptures?

The sculptures on the terracotta facade, depicting living and extinct species in separate wings, were influenced by Richard Owen's request and were seen by some as a subtle commentary on Darwin's theory of evolution, though Waterhouse included some anomalies.

What was the purpose of the 'New Whale Hall'?

The 'New Whale Hall,' now the Mammals (blue whale model) gallery, was built in 1934 specifically to accommodate the display of the blue whale skeleton, 'Hope'.

What is the 'River Thames whale'?

The 'River Thames whale' refers to the remains and bones of a northern bottlenose whale that became stranded in the Thames on January 20, 2006. These specimens are primarily used for research and are stored at the museum's Wandsworth site.

What is the 'Dinocochlea', and what was its classification history?

The 'Dinocochlea' is a long-standing paleontological mystery. Initially thought to be a giant gastropod shell, it was later considered a coprolite (fossilized feces), and is now understood to be a concretion formed around a worm's tunnel. It has been part of the museum's collection since its discovery in 1921.

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Overview

A Global Center for Natural History

The Natural History Museum in London is a preeminent institution dedicated to exhibiting a vast spectrum of life and earth science specimens. Situated in South Kensington, it stands as a cornerstone of scientific exploration and public education, housing approximately 80 million items across five core collections: botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology, and zoology.^[1]

Location and Architecture

Located on Exhibition Road, its iconic Alfred Waterhouse building, constructed in the Romanesque style, is often referred to as a "cathedral of nature."^[18] The museum's main entrance faces Cromwell Road, and it is easily accessible via public transport, notably the South Kensington Underground station.^[60]

Notable Features

Historically, the museum was famed for the Diplodocus cast, "Dippy," which was replaced in 2017 by the skeleton of a blue whale named "Hope."^[26] The museum is also a vital research center, specializing in taxonomy, identification, and conservation, holding significant historical collections, including those gathered by Charles Darwin.^[7]

A Rich History

Origins: The Sloane Collection

The museum's foundation lies in the extensive collection of Sir Hans Sloane, acquired by the British government in 1753. Initially housed within the British Museum in Bloomsbury, Sloane's collection of natural history specimens formed the nucleus of the museum's future holdings.^[7]

The Waterhouse Building

To accommodate the growing collections, land was acquired in South Kensington. Architect Alfred Waterhouse designed the landmark building, completed in 1880 and opened in 1881. Its distinctive Romanesque style and extensive use of terracotta tiles were intended to withstand London's industrial atmosphere.^[17]

Independence and Evolution

Legally part of the British Museum until 1963, the institution officially became independent with its own board of trustees under the British Museum Act 1963, though it retained the name "British Museum (Natural History)" until 1992. The merger with the Geological Museum in 1985 and the development of the Darwin Centre represent significant milestones in its modern history.^[21]

The Core Collections

Botany

The Botany collection comprises millions of preserved plant specimens, including algae, fungi, and lichens. It is crucial for understanding plant diversity, evolution, and conservation, containing historically significant items like those collected by Charles Darwin.

Entomology

Housing tens of millions of insect specimens, the Entomology collection is one of the largest and most comprehensive globally. It supports research into insect taxonomy, biodiversity, and the impact of environmental change.

Mineralogy

This collection showcases the Earth's geological treasures, featuring a vast array of minerals, rocks, and meteorites. Highlights include the Otumpa iron meteorite and the Aurora Pyramid of Hope diamond collection.^[33]^[35]

Palaeontology

The Palaeontology collection is renowned for its dinosaur fossils, including the complete Stegosaurus skeleton nicknamed Sophie.^[42] It also holds significant fossil remains of marine reptiles and early mammals.

Zoology

This extensive collection covers the animal kingdom, from microscopic organisms to large mammals and marine life. It includes the famous "Archie," a giant squid specimen, and the skeleton of the blue whale "Hope."^[25]

Exploring the Zones

Red Zone: Earth's History

Focusing on the dynamic history of the Earth, this zone features the main dinosaur exhibit hall (with the Stegosaurus skeleton), human evolution displays, and galleries on volcanoes, earthquakes, and the Earth's structure.^[32]

Green Zone: Life's Evolution

Exploring the diversity of life, this zone includes exhibits on birds, insects ("Creepy Crawlies"), marine invertebrates, and mammals. The Hintze Hall, featuring "Hope" the blue whale skeleton, serves as the central hub.^[32]

Blue Zone: Diversity of Life

Dedicated to the vast array of life on Earth, this zone houses the renowned Dinosaur gallery, exhibits on fish, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals, alongside interactive displays on environmental science.^[32]

Orange Zone: Science in Action

This zone highlights the museum's scientific work, featuring the Darwin Centre, which houses the spirit and dry collections, and the Wildlife Garden. It offers insights into ongoing research and conservation efforts.^[32]

Collection Highlights

Dinosaur Skeletons

The museum boasts impressive dinosaur fossils, including the Stegosaurus skeleton "Sophie," the Baryonyx, and casts of Diplodocus and Triceratops.^[42]^[44]

Iconic Specimens

Discover unique items such as the "Archie" giant squid, the "Hope" blue whale skeleton, the Apollo 16 Moon rock, and the Otumpa meteorite.^[25]^[33]

Gemstones and Minerals

The Vault gallery showcases rare and valuable minerals and gemstones, including the massive Ostro blue topaz and the Aurora Pyramid of Hope diamond collection.^[36]

Historical Fossils

Explore significant fossil discoveries, including the first complete ichthyosaur and plesiosaur skeletons found, attributed to Mary Anning, and the first Archaeopteryx specimen.^[37]

Extinct Species

See rare specimens of extinct creatures like the Dodo and the Great Auk, offering a tangible link to species lost to time.^[47]^[48]

Research and Education

Scientific Expertise

The museum is a global hub for research in taxonomy, systematics, biodiversity, planetary science, and evolution. Its extensive collections and scientific staff contribute significantly to understanding and conserving life on Earth.^[56]

Educational Programs

Engaging programs for students and the public, such as hands-on workshops and the "How Science Works" initiative, aim to foster scientific literacy. The museum also plays a key role in initiatives like the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site.^[54]

Conservation Focus

The museum leads international efforts, such as the IUCN Bumblebee Specialist Group, to assess and address threats to biodiversity, highlighting its commitment to conservation science.^[57]

Visiting the Museum

Getting There

The museum is accessible via the London Underground at South Kensington station, which connects directly to the museum via a tunnel. Numerous bus routes also serve the vicinity.^[60]

Accessibility

The museum provides disabled access, including accessible entrances via Museum Lane, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can navigate the facilities comfortably.^[60]

Admission

General admission to the Natural History Museum is free, although certain temporary exhibitions and special events may require a ticket purchase.^[2]

In Popular Culture

Film and Television

The museum's distinctive architecture and exhibits have featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Disney's One of Our Dinosaurs Is Missing, Paddington, and the BBC series Horizon and Museum of Life.^[61]

Video Games and Music

It has also appeared in video games like Tomb Raider III and served as a backdrop for music videos by artists such as McFly and Sabaton.^[64]^[67]

The Tring Outpost

Walter Rothschild Collection

The museum operates an outpost in Tring, Hertfordshire, known as the Natural History Museum at Tring. This site houses the extensive zoological collection assembled by Lionel Walter Rothschild, originally displayed in the private Walter Rothschild Zoological Museum.^[68]

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References

Museum entrances, Natural History Museum.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Natural History Museum, London Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While efforts have been made to reflect the information accurately, always consult official sources for the most current details.

This is not official museum advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding museum collections, exhibits, or historical accuracy. Always refer to the official Natural History Museum, London documentation and resources for specific inquiries.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Chronicles of Earth

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview 🌍

🏛️ A Global Center for Natural History

📍 Location and Architecture

⭐ Notable Features

A Rich History 📜

🌱 Origins: The Sloane Collection

🏗️ The Waterhouse Building

🏛️ Independence and Evolution

The Core Collections 🔬

🌿 Botany

🦋 Entomology

💎 Mineralogy

🦖 Palaeontology

🐳 Zoology

Exploring the Zones 🧭

🔴 Red Zone: Earth's History

🟢 Green Zone: Life's Evolution

🔵 Blue Zone: Diversity of Life

🟠 Orange Zone: Science in Action

Collection Highlights ✨

🦕 Dinosaur Skeletons

⭐ Iconic Specimens

💎 Gemstones and Minerals

📜 Historical Fossils

🐦 Extinct Species

Research and Education 🧑‍🔬

📚 Scientific Expertise

🎓 Educational Programs

🐝 Conservation Focus

Visiting the Museum ➡️

🚇 Getting There

♿ Accessibility

🎟️ Admission

In Popular Culture 🎬

🎬 Film and Television

🎮 Video Games and Music

The Tring Outpost 🌳

🏡 Walter Rothschild Collection

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Global Center for Natural History

Location and Architecture

Notable Features

A Rich History

Origins: The Sloane Collection

The Waterhouse Building

Independence and Evolution

The Core Collections

Botany

Entomology

Mineralogy

Palaeontology

Zoology

Exploring the Zones

Red Zone: Earth's History

Green Zone: Life's Evolution

Blue Zone: Diversity of Life

Orange Zone: Science in Action

Collection Highlights

Dinosaur Skeletons

Iconic Specimens

Gemstones and Minerals

Historical Fossils

Extinct Species

Research and Education

Scientific Expertise

Educational Programs

Conservation Focus

Visiting the Museum

Getting There

Accessibility

Admission

In Popular Culture

Film and Television

Video Games and Music

The Tring Outpost

Walter Rothschild Collection

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice