Journey Through Time: Discovering the Wonders of Natural History at the Wagner Free Institute of Science

The Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia is more than just a museum – it’s a trip back in time. Founded in 1855, the Wagner is a natural history museum, educational center, and library dedicated to preserving and displaying natural history from various time periods. Housed in a National Historic Landmark in North Philadelphia, many of the displays and specimens are original to the 19th century, providing visitors with a glimpse of how people in that era would have seen them.

Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase everything from dinosaurs to gemstones, each accompanied by detailed explanations and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. The museum’s collections are vast and diverse, including fossils, minerals, taxidermy specimens, and more. Executive Director Susan Glassman highlights that the museum’s displays have remained largely unchanged since the 1890s, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and witness how our understanding of the natural world has evolved.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Wagner is the sense of wonder it instills in visitors. Glassman notes that people, especially children, light up with excitement when exploring the museum’s displays. This sense of wonder serves as a source of inspiration for the institute’s work, further highlighting the significance of the Wagner as a place to explore natural history and appreciate the evolution of our understanding of the world.

To experience the wonders of the Wagner Free Institute of Science